'tabletops' is the term we have chosen to reference to any items, such as cameras and cell phones, left on tables - this can be done by the beach while having coffee, fruit juices, or in restaurants while having lunch - the concern with leaving items on the open without any security or direct observation, is the fact that they can be subject to theft.

this issue has been addressed in many touristic areas, partially because of the increase of policemen nearby - the modern architecture of the kiosks, in beaches like copacabana, are designed in a way that the area is more reserved to customers, helping the prevention of items getting stolen in a quick and unexpected way. 

whatever the situation may be, authorities generally recommend everyone to store items in a safe place and keep backpacks near one's legs, where they can be secured.