Paris, a city of romance, art, and delectable pastries, also harbors a less charming reality: pickpockets. These skilled thieves prey on unsuspecting tourists, eager to snatch valuables and disappear into the bustling crowds. But fear not! By following a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your Parisian adventure without becoming a victim.
Keep Your Wallet Safe
The first step to avoiding pickpockets is to minimize what you carry. Only take essentials: one credit/ATM card, one form of ID, and a small amount of cash (around €40-50). Remember, a hairbrush is easily replaced, but losing your passport or social security card can be a huge headache. Create copies of all your important documents, including your passport and the front and back of your credit cards. This will make it much easier to cancel cards and replace your passport if something unfortunate happens.
Protecting Your Belongings
Ladies, opt for purses with zippers, keeping them close to your body under your arm and slightly in front. If you have a backpack-style purse, keep it slung across your body and slightly in front as well. Gentlemen, consider putting a rubber band around your wallet and keeping it in your front pocket. This makes it difficult for someone to snatch it without you noticing. Remember, being vigilant is key!
High-Risk Zones
Pickpockets are particularly active near popular tourist attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Elysées. They also tend to target Americans, so be extra cautious in areas frequented by tourists, including museums, monuments, restaurants, hotels, beaches, trains, train stations, airports, subways, and vehicles with non-local license plates.
Spotting the Thieves
While not all pickpockets operate in groups, many do. They are often adolescents, taking advantage of lenient laws for minors. These groups can consist of boys or girls, of any race. Be on the lookout for suspicious behavior and trust your instincts.
What to Do if Pickpocketed
If you suspect you have been pickpocketed, don’t chase the thief! It is highly likely your belongings were passed off to another member of the group before you even realized they were missing. Instead, report the incident to the local police station (commissariat). You must file a police report before leaving France, so don’t delay.
Pickpocket Tactics
Pickpockets rely on a variety of common tactics, designed to distract and confuse their victims.
On the Metro:
The most common tactic on the metro is the “crush and grab“. You will be surrounded by people, pushing and shoving to get on or off the train. While they are jostling you, they are also picking your pockets. Another common trick is to grab a purse from someone sitting by the door and jump off the train as it’s closing. To avoid becoming a victim, try to find a seat away from the doors, or if you are standing, lean against a wall to minimize access to your belongings.
On the Street:
On the streets, distraction techniques are a favorite. Two or more people will approach you, asking for directions, trying to sell you something, or simply crowding you. While you’re distracted, someone else is picking your pocket. Another tactic involves someone spilling something on you, like water or ice cream. Someone will rush to help you clean up, while a partner discreetly picks your pocket.
ATM Scams:
While most ATMs in Paris are secure, be cautious when using them. Choose ATMs in well-lit, reputable areas – avoid dark alleys. If the ATM swallows your card and doesn’t return it, immediately go inside the bank. This is unusual and suggests tampering. Don’t talk to anyone while using the ATM. Quickly get your money and move on. Be wary of people approaching you while you are using the ATM, especially if they ask for directions. They might be trying to get your PIN and card number. Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent anyone from seeing your numbers. If the ATM looks tampered with, do not use it.
Stay Alert!
Remember, pickpockets target people who look like they have money. So be mindful of your surroundings and your belongings. If you’re visiting a heavily touristed area, consider leaving unnecessary items at your hotel.
Need Help? The Embassy Can Assist
If you do experience a theft, the Consular Section of the Embassy offers information on replacing stolen or lost items like credit cards and airline tickets. They can also help you contact family or friends for financial assistance if you’ve lost all your money. If your passport is stolen, they can issue you a replacement.
By staying alert and following these simple tips, you can have a wonderful, safe, and memorable time in Paris!
