JEFFERSON CITY -- Crimes of opportunity seem to be on the rise in Jefferson City.

The police department is issuing a warning after they received numerous complaints of credit card thefts from motor vehicles.

It seems thieves are removing the wallet or purse, taking out the cards and putting the wallet's back in the car.

Police say the thefts are happening at fitness centers, shopping plazas and the victim often doesn’t notice something has been stolen until they see charges on their card.

Jefferson City police are asking the public to take extra precautions with your belongings, lock you cars and hide your valuables, and call police if you notice suspicious activity in parking lots.