Be wary as you hunt Mankeys or Mewtwos

POKÉMON Go gamers need to be aware of criminals eyeing them as easy targets as they step into a road while playing in their virtual world, or wandering down an alley.

The mobile game, which has gone viral across the globe after its recent release, has gamers wandering around in a daze.

Pokémon Go has yet to be officially released in South Africa, but fans have managed to download the app.

The game uses GPS and the cameras of cellphones to create the illusion of “real life”. Pokémon, virtual creatures, appear on cellphone screens in “augmented reality”. Gamers have been seen wandering in public with their eyes glued to their smartphones in the hunt for them.

Since the release of the game, there has been widespread concern over the risks posed to players.

According to Bianca de Beer, spokeswoman for Dialdirect, players need to be alert at all times.

With the soaring popularity of the app, people are susceptible to cellphone theft and other related dangers. De Beer said users should conceal their smartphones and not brandish them about.

“It is more sensible and safer to tuck your phone away in a bag or a deep, secure pocket and only take it out when necessary.”

But this advice is ignored when there are Mewtwos and Mankeys on the loose.

Pokémon Go is also an absolute no-no while driving. “In an attempt to cover more ground more quickly, some enthusiasts are driving at a walking pace while staring at their screens. This is a recipe for disaster and a very bad idea,” said De Beer.

Another worry is the increased likelihood of gamers stepping into trouble. Being so engrossed could result in their walking into traffic, endangering themselves and drivers.

The game has a massive following in South Africa. Facebook community groups have been set up where people share tips, their catches of the day and create Pokémon hunting events. There are already Pokémon Go gatherings in Durban, with one held at Gateway shopping centre and another planned for the Botanical Gardens. Gamers are invited to work together to “catch ’em all”.