Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Newspaper/map distraction.
A common pickpocket tactic involves using a large map or a
newspaper to cover the target's line of sight to take things out of his or her bag. They'll shove
the map in your face, point to a part of the map, and then their accomplice will reach under
the paper so you can't see what they're taking. This is a very common way people steal mobile
phones from tables.
ATM confusion.
Always be careful when using the ATM—especially when you're alone.
While you're in the process of withdrawing money, a group of beggars will approach you from
behind to try and get your attention. They might pull on your arm or shove a piece of paper
in front of the screen. If you turn toward one of the thieves, another one will slip in from the
other side and press the button for the max amount of cash. Then they'll swipe the money and
run off. If this happens, put your hand where the money is being dispensed because that is
where the thieves will be targeting.
Also be sure to cover up your pin code when you enter it. Some thieves will try to see your
code (some even use hidden cameras) and then they'll follow you around for a chance to steal
your card.
The helpful tourist.
Don't let pickpockets take advantage of your good nature. In this scam,
one of the scammers will drop something in front of you and while you're helping them pick
up the mess, the other pickpocket will swoop in and lift something from you bag. That doesn't
mean you can't help your fellow man but be mindful about your own stuff while helping.
Slashed bag.
Some pickpockets don't even bother trying to open your bag and they will
simply slash it open with a knife. This is fairly uncommon in Europe but it isn't unheard of.
Turnstile stall.
Busy turnstiles are a common area for pickpockets to strike. As you're ap-
proaching a turnstile, one person will cut in front of you and then proceed to stop (they
might pretend that the machine isn't working) and their partner will come up behind
you—essentially trapping you between the two of them. The person in the back will lift
something from your bag or pocket while his partner in the front is fumbling with the turn-
stile.
Scooter snatch and run.
While not super common, some thieves will drive up on a scooter,
snatch a bag from the victim's shoulder, and then ride off into the sunset. I wouldn't be too
worried about this technique but it can happen.
Street performances.
In popular tourists spots there are multiple street performers who'll
dance, play music, or put on some type of performance. They can draw quite a crowd, but be-
ware because it's a popular area for pickpockets to target.
Fake fight.
A large group of men will pretend to start an altercation around a target, and in
all the commotion one of the men will attempt to pickpocket the target.
