1. The oldest form of stealing that is continuously reinvented
Pickpockets
The oldest form of stealing that is continuously reinvented

2. What is it? Someone steals a valuable or money from your you
In most successful pickpockets, the people don’t realize they are being victimized
Most pickpockets work in teams to identify and distract victims

3. Places to avoid
Pickpockets usually happen in crowded tourist areas where you will be in physical contact with other people.
Subways, buses, trains, museums (Louvre)
Places that are noisy so people can’t hear you yell
Around ATM’s where people can see how much money you are bringing in.

4. Distractions A prostitute continually touching you on a busy street
A fight erupts
On beaches, someone acts like they are drowning to get someone to leave their valuables on a beach
Very clever ways of getting your attention

5. Strategies Mug Money Wallet – carry 2 wallets
One wallet is your real wallet, the other decoy wallet has expired I.D, cards you don’t use anymore and $20 dollars. Give away the decoy
Carry wallets/valuables in your front pockets
Carry money belts
Use zippered pockets
Avoid looking like a tourist – look and act like the locals
Continually check to make sure all contents are with you
Know how to say thief in their language!