Paris, the City of Lights, is a magnet for tourists from all over the world. However, alongside the romantic charm and iconic landmarks, lurks a less glamorous reality: pickpockets. Every year, thousands of visitors find themselves victims of these cunning thieves who prey on unsuspecting tourists.
It’s crucial to stay vigilant and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
They’re Everywhere!
Pickpockets are professional thieves, often working in pairs or larger groups, who target tourists. They specifically target those who stand out, making it easy to identify them as visitors. Think about it: your language, clothing, guidebooks, and camera all scream “tourist!” They also count on your preoccupation with unfamiliar surroundings and the assumption that you carry a substantial amount of cash.
Their Tricks
Pickpockets are incredibly skilled. You may not even realize you’ve been targeted until you discover your wallet is missing and recall being jostled on the subway. A woman’s handbag, even with a zipper or clasp, is vulnerable if left dangling or carelessly placed on the floor. In fact, women make up a staggering 70% of pickpocketing victims in Paris.
Men aren’t immune either. An easily accessible outer pocket is a pickpocket’s dream.
Don’t Be an Easy Target
Losing your passport, ID, cash, and credit cards in Paris can truly ruin your trip. While the thief may discard the empty wallet, the inconvenience and hassle of replacing everything can be overwhelming. You’ll likely be stuck spending precious vacation time with paperwork and phone calls instead of enjoying the city.
Here are some tips to help you avoid becoming a victim:
- Carry only what you need. Leave your valuables, like jewelry, Euro passes, airline tickets, extra cash, and your passport, securely locked in your hotel safe.
- In France, you don’t always need to carry your passport. A student ID or driver’s license usually suffices for identification. Carry your passport separately from your wallet or purse. For men, consider a front pants pocket instead of an inside jacket pocket.
- Never let one person carry all the passports for a group. Don’t keep everyone’s documents in the same bag.
- Hold your purse or bag tightly under your arm when in crowds. Keep it on your lap or in full view in restaurants and public places.
- Don’t stand too close to the curb. Be aware of groups of children who may try to distract you. Despite their youth, they are often skilled pickpockets.
- Don’t leave valuables in your car. Even locked cars can be easily compromised.
- Don’t resist if you’re mugged. You can get hurt. If you see a pickpocket, don’t chase them unless a police officer is nearby.
- Stay calm if you’re robbed. It’s a stressful situation, but the best course of action is to immediately report the theft to the police. Every district has a police station (commissariat), and they are also located at train stations.
- Report the theft to the American Embassy if you lose your passport.
Additional Tips to Protect Yourself:
- Carry the smallest amount of cash possible.
- Spread your money out. Don’t keep it all in one place.
- Use smaller denominations.
- Keep your PIN numbers private and secure.
- Make photocopies of your passport and driver’s license.
- Keep your temporary address with you.
- Don’t write your name and address on your key ring.
Be Smart in Public Places
- Be wary of jostling in crowds.
- Keep your handbag opening facing towards you.
- Don’t carry valuables in your side or back pockets.
Stay Safe While Driving
- Close your windows and lock your doors, even while driving.
- Lock your trunk.
By following these simple tips, you can help protect yourself and your belongings while enjoying all that Paris has to offer. Remember, staying vigilant and informed can make a world of difference. So, go ahead and explore the City of Lights, but keep your eyes open for the not-so-bright side of Parisian life.
For more information and resources, visit the State Department website pages for Country Information for France and International Travel, as well as the French police website.
