AUSTIN (KXAN) – As shoppers scramble to get their last minute gifts before the Christmas weekend, data from APD’s Crime Tracker suggests crime is up at certain shopping areas, while down at others.

Out of the four big shopping areas in Austin, The Domain saw one of the biggest spikes in crime. This year, during the month from Black Friday shopping week through December 23rd, there were 23 car break-ins in and around the upscale shopping center. That’s up from 4 during the same time period last year. That’s also higher than all the three major malls combined.

“I think that’s really sad compared to what it was last year, and with this being such an upscale mall area,” said Teresa, a shopper who was waiting in traffic to head into the shopping center.

“It’s a pretty fancy mall and all,” said Maddy Burt. “But, I could see it the other way around. I mean people who are wanting to steal would come here where all the rich people shop.”

Barton Creek Square Mall and Highland Mall have both seen about 7 car break-ins since the holiday rush started this year. That’s remained about steady compared to the same time period last year. That’s even with several stores deciding to leave Highland Mall this year.

The Lakeline Mall area had the lowest number of car break-ins. APD’s Crime Tracker showed just two, compared to none the previous year during the same holiday shopping period.

But, the Lakeline Mall area did have the highest number of thefts and shoplifting cases. Up from 25 last year to 39 this year, during the holiday rush that started on Black Friday. The Domain, Highland Mall and Barton Creek Mall all saw a dip in the number of shoplifters. The Domain area dropped from 10 to 7 this year. Highland Mall dropped from 13 to 9 this year. And the Barton Creek Mall area dropped from a whopping 40 last year, to 28 thefts this year.

“I could really see it more at Lakeline Mall then here to tell you the truth,” Burt said, who was about to get her shopping gifts from The Domain.

“I try to be very safe and lock the car and always be with someone, but I am concerned,” said Barbara Kittimer.

To protect yourself, shoppers are encouraged to park in well-lit areas, hide any of their valuables from sight, and always lock their doors and roll up their windows.

“Keep your purchases in the trunk if you go to another store. That’s the safest thing you can do as far as I know,” said Pat Easley.

But, the news didn’t spoil the shopping experience for many who were heading in to shop at The Domain.

“It’s really luxurious to shop here. I love coming here,” Burt said.