Picture this, you're in a crowded area. Maybe an airport or mall or local venue. Someone comes up to you and
says "can you hold this (coffee/package/paper bag or package) for me while I tie my shoe/take this phone call/run to the bathroom/etc? ?
Do you take it? Do you "help them out"? NO and if so, why?
Once you take possession of the cup, bag or item, it is yours. The woman or man walks away and you are on Security Cameras holding the items. Remember that possession is 9/10ths of the law. In todays age, you are guilty until proven otherwise.
What's in the cup or bag? Who knows. They ran away leaving you with the proverbial bag. It's yours. In worse case scenario, you are approached by security and they find drugs or hazardous materials in the containers. Do you drop it on the ground and run? Nope, too late. They have your face on security cameras holding the items and your fingerprints are now on the item(s). What do you do?
Never take anything at the airport or crowded areas from anyone you do not know. It does not matter how cute that person is, never take anything from someone you do not know. IN worse case, they do come back but this time with security or other people. Bad place for you to be in! Who knows what they are coming to you for? Did the person plant something on you? Did they set you up ?
If this happens in Europe or other countries besides the US, are you aware of their laws about possession? You will have a very hard time proving "I only held it for him/her/them". This could mean months, expenses, lawyers and potentially a foreign court. Best case, only a missed flight or ruined vacation, but don't count on it.
No matter where you are, do not accept anything to hold or watch from anyone you do not know.
Stay safe and alert as you travel this season.