How To Protect Yourself From Pickpockets

The major hotspots are in areas that are heavily populated with tourists like popular tourist attractions, street performances, and on public transport.

Also, be weary when shopping, sitting in a restaurant or café, and when you're visiting the beach.

Pickpockets tend to target certain types of people and are always looking for the easiest target to avoid any confrontation.  They prey on people who are confused and overwhelmed.  Walking around with alot of bags makes it hard to watch over everything and creates a prime target for pickpockets.

Also, don’t go out flashing your expensive watch, diamond earrings or gold chain for everyone to see.  Not only are you dangling treasure but you’re also advertising how rich you are.

1) Bump and lift

If someone bumps into to you, do a quick check of your pockets.  They may have just skillfully reached into your pocket and lifted your wallet or phone.

2) Paper distraction

One of the most common tricks pickpockets use is to distract you by putting a newspaper or map in front of you to distract you and alter your line of sight.  While they distract you with the paper, his accomplice will be busy underneath taking from you.

3) Bird poop

This scam starts with someone spraying you with something resembling bird poop (it could be something like milk, ketchup or mustard).  Miraculously someone else will soon appear to help you clean up this embarrassing mess.  As you're laughing together about the situation he goes through your pockets and takes what he wants.

4) The drop

Working as a pair one person will drop something in front of you and the other will pick your pocket as you're reaching down to help pick up the item.

There are a few simple tricks to protect yourself from being pickpocketed.  First of all, only take what you need for the day and keep the rest locked up at the hostel.

Also, don't keep everything in the same area.  Carry your wallet, passport and phone in different pockets and avoid using your back pockets as those are the most accessible to pickpockets.

1) Don't panic!

Being robbed can be traumatic.  You'll feel like you've been invaded and your sense of safety and security will be gone.  Try to keep calm and, remember, you're safe and whatever was stolen can be replaced.

2) Contact the authorities

Contact the local police and fill out a report with an inventory of what was stolen.  Even if the chances of finding your stolen items is slim, you may need this police report when filing an insurance claim.  If your passport was stolen you'll need to contact your embassy as well for assistance in replacing it.

3) Cancel your cards

As soon as you are able to, contact your banks to cancel any cards that were stolen.  If your laptop or phone was stolen you should also change any passwords you had for websites you used commonly especially anything that dealt with online banking.

4) Be strong

Yes, this will probably be the lowest of the lows for your travels but don't let this define your trip.  Try to pick yourself back up and continue on with your travels - there's a ton of great things lying ahead for you!