Paris, the City of Lights, is also a city where pickpockets thrive. Every year, thousands of visitors find themselves victims of these skilled thieves, often losing their valuable belongings in the blink of an eye.
The Perfect Targets
Pickpockets target tourists, who are easy to identify by their foreign language, attire, and tourist-related items like guidebooks and cameras. They assume tourists carry large sums of cash and are distracted by unfamiliar surroundings.
How They Operate
Pickpockets often work in teams, skillfully distracting their victims with jostling or distractions while their accomplices quickly lift wallets or purses. You might not even notice the theft until you discover your wallet is missing, and then it’s often too late. Ladies’ handbags, especially those left unattended or hanging loosely, are easy prey, and men’s outer pockets are equally vulnerable.
The Consequences
The damage from a pickpocket goes beyond losing money. Many tourists carry all their important documents in their wallets, making the theft even more devastating. Imagine losing your passport, identification, tickets, cash, credit cards, and traveler’s checks all at once! Not only can this ruin your vacation, but it can also be a nightmare to replace all the lost documents and cards.
Protecting Yourself from Pickpockets
Here are some simple steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of pickpockets in Paris:
Safeguarding Your Belongings
- Minimize what you carry. Leave your valuables like jewelry, Euro passes, airline tickets, travelers’ checks, credit cards, extra cash, and your passport in your hotel safe.
- Keep your passport separate from your wallet or purse. Men can carry theirs in a front pants pocket, while women might consider a secure travel pouch worn close to their body.
- Never leave your valuables in a locked car. Pickpockets can easily bypass car locks, and the trunk isn’t safe either.
Staying Aware in Crowds
- Hold your purse or shoulder bag tightly under your arm in crowds. Keep it on your lap or in full sight in restaurants and public places.
- Be wary of noisy children swarming around you. Despite their age, they can be skilled pickpockets.
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
What to Do if You Are Mugged
- Don’t resist. Your safety is more important than your possessions.
- Don’t engage the pickpocket. Call for help or seek out a police officer if you see them in action.
- Report the theft to the police. You’ll need a police report for insurance purposes and to obtain temporary identification.
- Contact the American Embassy if you lose your passport or need other assistance.
Smart Money Management
Here are some additional tips to manage your money safely during your trip:
- Carry only the cash you need.
- Spread your money around. Don’t keep all your cash in one place.
- Use smaller denomination banknotes.
- Protect your PIN numbers.
- Make photocopies of your passport and driver’s license.
- Keep a record of your temporary address.
Stay Safe on Public Transport
Public transportation can be a breeding ground for pickpockets, so it’s essential to be extra cautious:
- Be alert for suspicious jostling.
- Keep your handbag facing you.
- Avoid carrying valuables in side or back pockets.
- Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle.
By taking these simple precautions and remaining vigilant, you can enjoy your trip to Paris without falling prey to these unfortunate thieves.
