A “PICKPOCKET” has revealed the three main ways tourists are targeted by thieves whilst on holiday.
Professional theatrical pickpocket Lee Thompson, who is a member of the Magic Circle, has revealed the underhand tactics used by criminals and also what signs you need to look out for if you think you are being targeted.
A study carried out by travel insurance comparison site Quotezone revealed Italy to have the highest number of pickpocketing reports in online reviews, with 463 mentions for very one million reviews.
The hotspots were found to be the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon in Rome.
France was second with 283 per million and the Netherlands was third with 143 mentions per million.
The worrying news is that everyone is a potential victim, according to Thompson although he added they like to target high-profile individuals.
He said they typically strike when attention wavers or when someone leaves their valuables unguarded.
Thompson told The Telegraph: “Pickpockets target people who seem distracted, and they also target those who seem vulnerable.
“They do this regardless of status.”
He recommended people didn’t wear expensive jewellery or flashy designer accessories and to avoid carrying around designer shopping bags.
Pickpockets tend to operate in busy tourist areas, shops and markets as well as busy transport hubs, either working alone or in groups.
If they are working in a group, one member can create a distraction to divert your attention while your valuables are being stolen by another.
The Metropolitan Police says: “This could be anything from a game to a loud shout, all designed to avert your attention while an unseen accomplice steals your valuables.
“So do try not to be easily distracted.”
Shops can be a favourite place for pickpockets to operate as often people are standing still which makes them an easier target.
The Met adds: “IT’s easier for them to brush past people, take items and blend into the crowd.
Thompson warns people should be wary of “friendly strangers”.
He says: “They may cause sudden commotions. These will divert your attention, so stay focused and assertive. This is especially important in crowded areas. That’s where pickpockets are most active.”
The Met also warns to be suspicious of “hugger muggers”.
It says: “They know all the tricks and are extremely light-fingered, with most of their thefts only taking a second or two.
“One of their tactics is ‘hugger mugging’ where a thief will appear to be over-friendly for no particular reason and hug you while pickpocketing you.”
To help minimise being targeted, Thompson recommends to leave any valuables in the hotel safe, as well as any non-essential items.
Carrying around bulky items as well as “too much cash” can make you more of a target.
He also recommends wearing a money belt or front-pocket wallet, for extra protection.
While people need to be vigilant at all times there are things you can do if you believe you are being targeted or followed.
Thompson recommends changing your direction or go to a nearby building for safety.
He says that pickpocket thrive on anonymity and it is likely they will lose interest if they think you’re on to them.
If the worst happens, you should report suspicious activity to the authorities immediately and also take steps to safeguard your belongings, such as informing your bank of your cards have been stolen.
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Thompson also warns you should place your personal safety above safeguarding your belongings and try to defuse confrontations when possible.
While pickpockets will tend to avoid confrontations, there is the possibility a situation could escalate if they feel threatened.
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