Tourists urged ‘stay vigilant’ in European pickpocketing ‘blackspots’

With millions of tourists expected to flock to Paris this summer for the Paris Olympics, travel expert Greg Wilson, the CEO and travel insurance expert from Quotezone, is urging Britons to be wary of some key areas where pickpockets are known to thrive. “This summer will be incredibly popular, as millions of tourists are expected to visit Paris for the Olympics and Paralympics – unfortunately, this also makes it a hotspot for pickpocketing, so travellers need to be aware,” he said.

“With the extra surge in tourists, pickpockets will be on the lookout for unsuspecting travellers to target, so it’s important people take extra precautions to protect themselves so they can enjoy the festivities.”

France was previously named by Quotezone as one of the worst destinations in all of Europe for pickpocketing and tourist-targeting scams, missing out on the top spot only to Italy. Paris, in particular, is known for its high rate of pickpockets.

“Quotezone’s European pickpocketing index revealed France has one of the highest pickpocketing rates in Europe,” said Quotezone.

“The research showed hundreds of people have complained about their valuables being stolen when visiting iconic tourist attractions in France.

“The Eiffel Tower has the highest pickpocketing rates, so tourists should be extra vigilant if planning to visit the iconic monument during their trip.

“Other blackspots like the Arc de Triomphe and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame will also bring in larger crowds than usual, making them convenient places for criminals to target unsuspecting holidaymakers.

“Pickpockets can move more inconspicuously at these popular spots and snatch purses, wallets, phones, jewellery and other valuables, often without victims even noticing.”

The experts also warned tourists to be cautious while travelling around the city, with Metro lines providing the perfect hub pickpockets to operate.

However, while pickpockets do exist, taking the right precautions can ensure you don’t lose out to them.

Always keep your belongings, including bags, close to you while travelling or sitting down in a restaurant or bar.

“The pickpockets can work by themselves or use an accomplice for distraction, so tourists need to be on their guard,” said Quotezone. “There are precautions individuals can take to protect themselves and deter thieves.

“Non-essentials such as jewellery and extra cash should be left in a safe at the hotel and tourists should keep their credit cards, phones, cameras, and wallets zipped up and visible if they have to carry them into these areas.

“It’s recommended to use a cross-body bag and wear it on the front of their body in large crowds, sealed inner pockets are also a good option.

“Travellers can also buy wallets or purses with RFID blockers, for protection against digital pickpockets, who can use nearby devices to scan your bank card details.

“Important paperwork, such as passports, visas or vaccination documents should be left locked in a safe if possible – travellers should also make copies and hide them elsewhere just in case.”