by Every year, thousands of British tourists are picked on while on holiday – but there are ways to protect yourself, which suggests a professional pickpocket.
The issue of tourists being targeted by thieves resurfaced over the Easter weekend, when an Italian woman went viral for banning pickpocketing in Venice – and was then attacked for drawing attention to the crime.
According to a study by travel insurance comparison site Quotezone, Italy has the highest number of pickpocketing reports in online travel reviews (463 mentions per million reviews), including The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Pantheon in Rome the hot places. France came second in the study (283 per million) and the Netherlands came third (143 citations per million).
It’s still a common problem on UK soil, too. A viral video posted on TikTok last month appeared to show a man fumbling for a pickpocket in Green Park after he was caught with his wallet.
Speaking to the Telegraph, professional theater shooter Lee Thompson – who is 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 your primary target for pickpocketing?
Pickpockets target high-profile individuals, according to Thompson, but he says everyone is a potential victim. “Pickpockets target people who seem distracted, and they also target those who are vulnerable,” he says. “They do this regardless of status.” Thompson says pickpocketing “is usually when they attract attention, or when someone leaves their valuables unprotected”.
He also warns that wearing expensive jewelery can attract unwanted attention, so tourists should avoid designer accessories that could make them a target. “Instead, opt for modest attire that doesn’t scream ‘touristy.’ Avoid those designer shopping bags too,” he advises.
Where do pickpockets work?
Pickpockets operate mainly in busy tourist areas, such as markets, and in crowded transport hubs, and may work individually or in groups. In the latter case, pickpocketing teams are adept at creating distractions. “This could be anything from a game to a loud shout, all designed to avoid your attention while a colleague steals your valuables,” say the Metropolitan Police. “So try not to be easily distracted.”
Pickpockets also operate in stores where people are more likely to be standing still, making them an easier target: “it’s easier for them to sweep people, take items and blend in with the crowd,” a says the Metropolitan Police.
What are the common tricks that pickpockets use?
“Beware of friendly strangers,” says Thompson. “They can cause sudden disturbances. These will divert your attention, so maintain focus and persistence. This is especially important in congested areas. That’s where the pickpockets are most active.”
The Metropolitan Police warn of so-called muggers: “They know all the tricks and are very light-hearted and most of their thefts only take a second or two. One of their tactics is ‘hugger mugging’ where a thief will appear to be overly friendly for no particular reason and give you a hug while you’re pickpocketing.”
What items are at risk of theft?
Pockets thrive on accessibility, according to Thompson. “Things like phones stick out of pockets, and bags left on chairs present an opportunity – wallets, phones, passports: nothing is off limits.
“Leave valuables in your hotel safe,” he says. “Leave unnecessary items there too. Carrying bulky belongings and too much cash will make you more vulnerable. Minimize your load on essentials and keep them close at hand.”
Thompson recommends wearing a money belt, for added protection, or a front pocket wallet. “They’re not the most fashionable accessories,” he notes, “but they provide a discrete and effective way to protect your cash and cards.”
What about digital pickpocketing?
In the digital age, pickpocketing has progressed beyond the realm of the left, Thompson points out. “Criminals use modern technology to steal personal information and funds remotely. Thieves can scan credit cards and passports remotely, using devices such as card skimmers and RFID [Radio Frequency Identification] readers. They can do this without the victim even realizing.” To protect this, Thompson recommends buying an RFID wallet – which can block these signals – or special card sleeves that create a barrier to electronic scanning.
What should I do if I suspect I am being targeted?
“Maintaining vigilance is key,” says Thompson. “If you feel someone is following you, change direction. Or go to a nearby building for safety. Pickpocket becomes anonymity. They’re likely to lose interest if they think you’re engaging them.”
What should you do if you are targeted?
Thompson recommends that tourists trust their instincts. “Seek refuge in a well-lit shop or crowded area; report suspicious activity to the authorities immediately; and take proactive measures to protect goods,” he says.
He says you should always put your personal safety above the protection of your belongings, and try to defuse confrontation whenever possible. “Pickpockets usually aim to avoid confrontation,” he says, but warns that “things can escalate if they feel threatened”.
