Tourist Picture: Pexels
If you are heading to Europe soon, be sure to stay safe and beware of the common pickpocketing scams.
- The ‘Bump and Lift’
In busy areas like Christmas markets and metro stations, pickpockets often rely on the “bump and lift” trick. They deliberately bump into you, jostling you in the chaos, while an accomplice swoops in to swipe your wallet, phone, or handbag. Some pickpockets will even intentionally spill food or drinks on you as a diversion or knock off things you’re carrying. As you’re trying to get your composure back, one of them is already helping themselves to your valuables.
To protect yourself, hide your phone and wallet out of sight, and always use bags with secure closures like zips, rather than flaps or clasps. Be mindful of your personal space and don’t underestimate any unexpected physical contact, it’s often a cover for theft.
- The “Young Assassin”
The “Young Assassin” scam involves a group of children, often appearing innocent or in need of help, who surround tourists with the intention of stealing from them. These kids might seem like they’re selling small items like flowers or postcards, but their real agenda is to distract you while they – or an accomplice – grab your valuables. Their innocent appearance lowers your guard, making them hard to suspect.
A traveller who visited Rome six months ago shared his experience on Reddit:
“10-13 year old looking kid was standing next to me on the Metro, he was with a group of other younger looking people. He distracted me by commenting on my hair and few seconds later I look down and my purse was open. I immediately panicked in front of every one saying I was pickpocketed. The kid pretended to pick up the wallet from the floor as if I had dropped it. I just said thank you and let it go. Be careful out there….”
If you feel surrounded, take a step back to assess the situation and ensure your belongings are safe. Trust your instincts – this scam relies on distraction and manipulation, so staying alert can help you avoid becoming a target.
- The ‘Street Performer Crowd’
Street performers are a festive highlight which often attract large crowds – perfect for pickpockets to strike. While you’re mesmerised by the show, thieves can slip through the audience unnoticed, using the noise and chaos as cover to target wallets, phones, and purses.
To enjoy the performance without the worry, watch from a distance and secure your belongings. Consider usingcrossbody bags with locking zippers or hidden pouches for extra security. If you feel someone getting too close, check your belongings immediately.
- The ‘Helpful Local’
A seemingly friendly local offers assistance, such as giving directions or warning you about pickpockets. While you’re distracted by their well-meaning conversation, an accomplice takes the opportunity to steal your belongings. This scam works because it exploits tourists’ natural desire to trust and connect with locals, especially when navigating unfamiliar places
To avoid falling for this trick, be mindful when approached by overly friendly strangers, especially in busy tourist areas. Politely decline assistance and rely on official tourist information centres for advice. Blend in by dressing like a local – avoid drawing attention with maps, guidebooks or flashy clothing.
- The ‘Friendship Bracelet’
Popular in hotspots like Paris, Milan and Rome, this involves a stranger approaching you with a friendly offer to tie a ‘free’ bracelet or friendship band around your wrist. Once it’s on, they demand payment, leaving you in a stressful, awkward position. While you’re caught off guard, an accomplice might strike.
Another traveller shared onReddit:
“Today I visited the Castel Sant’Angelo and got caught by one of the many sales people on the bridge just outside the castle. He was a very nice man, very chatty and offered me and my wife a “free” bracelet. I kindly refused but he ended up getting a bracelet on both our wrists and then demanded (quite aggressively) €10 euros, €5 per bracelet. I’m a very friendly outgoing chap but after this I’ll be extra vigilant around the tourist hotspots. Just a heads up.”
Firmly refuse any unsolicited gifts or attention. Staying confident and assertive will help you avoid falling into their trap.
- The ‘Tabletop Distraction’
A sneaky scam often seen in cafes and restaurants involves a thief posing as a lost tourist. They approach diners with their phone casually left on the table and suddenly shove a map or leaflet in their face, pretending to ask for directions. While you’re distracted, they swipe your phone from the table without you noticing.
A traveller who came back from Copenhagen shared onReddit:
“Old trick, but just got almost robbed from my phone at the Mcdonalds in frederiksberg while eating there with my 7y old daughter. One guy showed a paper to me over the table and tried to take my phone in the process. It took me 1s to figure what was going on and stood up started shouting so he let go. I followed him and made everyone aware what just happened by shouting and pointing to him and another person that I spotted also walking around with a paper.”
Keep your phone off the table and your bag on your lap. Opting for inside tables, away from busy walkways can also reduce the risk of being a target.
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