Every year, thousands of British holidaymakers are pickpocketed while on holiday; But a professional pickpocket notes that there are ways to protect yourself.
The issue of tourists being targeted by thieves resurfaced over the Easter weekend, when an Italian woman went viral for preventing pickpocketing in Venice and was then attacked for drawing attention to the crime.
Italy has the most reports of pickpocketing in online travel reviews (463 mentions per million reviews), according to a study by travel insurance comparison site Quotezone, with the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon in Rome also among the hotspots. In the research, France came second (283 mentions per million) and the Netherlands came third (143 mentions per million).
This is still a common problem on UK soil as well. A viral video posted on TikTok last month showed a passerby in Green Park swinging at a pickpocket after catching him with his wallet.
Speaking to The Telegraph, professional pickpocket Lee Thompson, a member of the Magic Circle, explains the tricks of the trade, how to spot a pickpocket and the easiest ways to protect your belongings abroad.
Who is a pickpocket’s primary target?
Pickpockets target high-profile individuals, but everyone is a potential victim, Thompson said. “Pickpockets target people who appear distracted, but they also target those who appear vulnerable,” he says. “They do this regardless of their status.” Thompson adds that pickpockets often “attack when distracted or when someone leaves valuables unguarded.”
It also warns that wearing expensive jewelry can attract unwanted attention, so tourists should avoid wearing designer accessories that could make them a target. “Instead, opt for modest clothing that doesn’t scream ‘tourist’. “And avoid designer shopping bags,” he advises.
Where do pickpockets work?
Pickpockets operate primarily in busy tourist areas such as markets and crowded public transportation hubs, and may work alone or in groups. In the latter case, pickpocket teams are masters of distraction. “This could be anything from a game to loud shouting, all designed to distract you while an unseen accomplice steals your valuables,” the Metropolitan Police warns. “So try not to get distracted easily.”
Pickpockets also operate in shops where people are more likely to stand still, making them an easier target: “It’s easier for them to walk past people, take their belongings and blend into the crowd,” the Metropolitan Police adds.
What are the common tricks used by pickpockets?
“Be wary of friendly strangers,” says Thompson. “They can cause sudden confusion. These will distract you; so stay focused and assertive. This is especially important in crowded areas. “That’s where pickpockets are most active.”
The Metropolitan Police warn of so-called hugger robbers: “They know all the tricks and are extremely light-handed as most of their thefts only last a second or two. One of their tactics is the ‘cuddle robbery’, where a thief will appear overly friendly for no particular reason and hug you while pickpocketing.” “
What items are vulnerable to theft?
According to Thompson, pickpockets thrive on access. “Items like phones stick out of pockets, and bags left on chairs offer an opportunity; wallets, phones, passports: no item is off-limits.
“Leave your valuables in your hotel safe,” he adds. “Also, leave non-essential items there. Carrying bulky tools and too much money makes you more vulnerable. Minimize your burden on essential items and keep them close.”
Thompson recommends wearing a money belt or front pocket wallet for extra protection. “These aren’t the most fashionable accessories,” he says, “but they offer a discreet and effective way to protect your cash and cards.”
What about digital pickpocketing?
Thompson notes that pickpocketing in the digital age has gone beyond sleight of hand. “Criminals are using modern technology to steal personal information and funds remotely. Thieves can remotely scan credit cards and passports using devices such as card skimmers and RFID. [Radio Frequency Identification] readers. “They can do this without the victim even realizing it.” To guard against this, Thompson recommends purchasing an RFID wallet that can block these signals or special card sleeves that create a barrier against electronic scanning.
What should I do if I suspect I am being targeted?
“It’s very important to be careful,” says Thompson. “If you feel someone is following you, change direction. Or go to a nearby building for safety. A pickpocket benefits from anonymity. If they suspect you’re after them, they’ll likely lose interest.
What should you do if you are targeted?
Thompson advises tourists to trust their instincts. “Seek shelter in a store or a crowded, well-lit area; Report suspicious activity to authorities immediately; and take proactive steps to protect items,” he says.
He adds that you should always prioritize your personal safety over the protection of your belongings and try to defuse conflicts whenever possible. “Pickpockets generally aim to avoid confrontation,” he says, but warns that “things can escalate if they feel threatened.”