Haylee Herman (L2) poses for photo with journalists from China International Publishing Group. [Maverick Chen / China.org.cn]

Those who can afford to buy security do. According to the same Economist article, South Africa now has almost twice as many private security guards than police. But though they have grown accustomed to the crime, residents still live in fear, said Haylee Herman, a 20-something-year-old woman who has lived in South Africa her entire life.

Herman suggested other small measures that people could take to avoid becoming a victim. One is to avoid being near dangerous communities. People should also refrain from carrying "valuable items, such as cash, professional cameras and jewelry around at the wrong time in the wrong place," she said.

"The best way to keep away from potential crimes is taking enough precautious measures and always being vigilant," Herman said.