If you’re heading to Europe, take heed of travelers’ warnings. Pickpocketing has long been a concern in many developing countries, including Sri Lanka, where we’re all too familiar with the need to stay alert on public transport and in crowded areas. However, this issue has now been creeping into Europe, where pickpocketing was once less common. So, even in the charming streets of Europe, it’s wise to stay vigilant.
According to a study by an insurance comparison website QuoteZone.co.uk which analyzed reviews by British tourists for the top five tourist destinations in popular European countries, gives a different picture. Guess which country had the highest number of pickpockets in Europe? – Italy. The runner-up goes to France. Warning signs about pickpockets in crowded places are common in Paris too. Both France and Italy are very popular tourist destination, so these attractions can be crowded.
The study took a magnifying glass to British reviews of Italy’s hottest attractions—the Duomo di Milano, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, and Pantheon. Now, even though this study was all about British tourists’ opinions, it might still make you think twice about your European adventure.
Deceptive Techniques
And these pickpockets? Slipping a hand in your bag isn’t the only way pickpockets strike, however — and in Italy, the tactics are clever. They’re downright crafty. According to a Reddit thread on r/Travel, one tourist in Florence saw a particularly sneaky trick. A beautiful girl in a sheer white shirt with no bra would stroll over a bridge, making every guy on the bridge turn his head, while the pickpockets went to work. Classic misdirection!
In Milan, another Redditor recounted how some teens staged a fake robbery on his mom to distract the tourist while they could rob him instead of his mum.
The Italian National Police say these sneaky suspects often roll up on mopeds or in cars, snatching bags right out of hands. But they can strike on foot, too, so keep an eye out. So being vigilant of your surroundings is very important wherever you are.
To fend off these crafty crooks, follow some savvy advice- wearing your bag crossbody, never leaving it unattended, and staying alert in crowded places. Leaving flashy jewelry at home is a good move—after all, a glittery necklace is practically a “pick me” sign.
