Why does Europe have so many pickpockets?

In response to the original question - why is pickpocketing more common in Europe than the US, there seems to be more tolerance of most forms of petty crime in Europe (drug abuse, vandalism, bike theft, short changing tourists, etc.).

Are pickpockets more common in Europe?

Pickpockets are common in many touristy parts of the world, but this problem is especially severe in Europe's big cities — Berlin, Paris, Rome, Milan, Prague, Athens to name a few.

Are pickpockets a problem in Europe?

While Europe has little violent crime, it does have its share of petty purse snatching, pickpocketing, phone grabbing, and general ripping off of tourists — especially in places where tourists gather. Thieves target vacationers — not because they're mean, but because they're smart.

Which European country has the most pickpockets?

1. Barcelona, Spain. One TripAdvisor reviewer compares pickpocketing to “a generally practiced and accepted sport, like soccer”. Over 7.5 million tourists visited Barcelona in 2014, according to Barcelona Turisme – all of them vulnerable to pickpockets.

Is pickpocketing worse in Europe?

Pickpocketing is most definitely worse in Europe than America.

Why Does Europe Have So Many Microstates?

Why are there no pickpockets in the US?

People carry less cash today, and thanks to enhanced security features, it's harder for thieves to use stolen credit or debit cards than it was in the past. And perhaps most important, the centuries-old apprenticeship system underpinning organized pickpocketing has been disrupted.

What is the pickpocket capital of the world?

1. Barcelona. This beautiful Spanish seaside city hides a danger underneath its surface. It is notorious for thieves who like to prey on unsuspecting tourists.

Who is the best pickpocket in the world?

Apollo Robbins has been called the world's best pickpocket and “the Gentleman Thief” because he always returns what he has lifted from his skeptical audience. It's a reputation that he secured when he lifted from former president Jimmy Carter's Secret Service agents outside Caesar's Palace in 2001.

Does Canada have pickpockets?

Don't fall for these tactics! Vaughan pickpockets stealing items from unsuspecting shoppers. York Regional Police is warning shoppers in the Vaughan area about an increase in pickpocketing, with several charges laid for "distraction thefts" in the city, according to a press release.

Is Paris full of pickpockets?

Paris is known for its glamour, its cuisine, its romance, and of course, its fashion. Unfortunately, it is also known for its pickpockets. The city attracts over 33 million tourists a year, so it's no mystery why it's a hot spot for sticky fingers.

Which country has the most pickpocket?

Do zipper pockets stop pickpockets?

Zippers are the first line of defense

I don't ever let go of my zipper in crowded areas and find that works to deter most pickpockets.”

Why does Spain have so many pickpockets?

One question which many still struggle to understand is why the city has become so prone to pickpocketing. From the perspective of locals, tourism has a lot to answer for when it comes to understanding the causes: the large number of holiday-goers are the primary target for pickpockets.

How do you stop being pick pocketed in Europe?

How can I stop being robbed in Europe?

Wear a money belt and split up your money.

One of the best ways to avoid losing all of your cash and credit cards at one time is to split them up in different locations on your body. Wear a money belt underneath your t-shirt and put the majority of your cash inside of it.

Are fanny packs harder to pickpocket?

But fanny packs (or waist packs) can also help prevent pickpockets in Europe. If you want a hands-free option for your travels and go with a fanny pack, make sure you wear the back in front of you. Wearing it behind you will make it easier for pickpockets.

Does Greece have pickpockets?

Although Greece is known for its safety, pickpocketing has long been seen as a major problem for holidaymakers. Travel guides address it, with some advising tourists to use decoy wallets and fake credit cards.

Does Spain have a lot of pickpockets?

Barcelona does have a bad reputation for petty theft and pickpockets and tourist areas are rife with pickpockets and petty thieves. If you use your common sense and take some simple precautions, you will be not be robbed.

Are there pickpockets in Ireland?

There's plenty of room on this rural island to escape the bustling cities where most of the crime is concentrated, but even in urban areas, traveling alone is safe and common. When you're out, watch out for big crowds (i.e. pickpocket breeding grounds) and avoid walking alone at night.

How pickpockets trick your mind?

A classic trick is the 'stall', used by pickpocketing gangs all over the world. First, a 'blocker', walks in front of the victim (or 'mark') and suddenly stops so that the mark bumps into them. Another gang member will be close behind and will bump into both of them and then start a staged argument with the blocker.

Why do banks hire pickpockets?

The Federal Trade Commission reports that nine-to-ten million Americans will be victimized by identity theft annually. But there is help for companies that want to test the effectiveness of their own safeguards against ID theft. NBC's Tom Costello reports.

Why are there so many pickpockets in Italy?

Where pickpocketing happens in Italy. Crowded public transport routes in big cities and the bustle of major rail stations like Milano Centro, Roma Termini and Florence's Santa Maria Novella, have long been pickpocket hotspots, as are the express airport trains in Milan, Rome and even Pisa.

How do you spot a pickpocket?

“A pickpocket doesn't usually have time to search all ten, but when they see you check your pocket when you see the sign, they now know the exact location.” Even just glancing down at the location can clue in a potential crook. If you think pickpockets might be around, resist the urge to glance down at your belongings.

How do I not get mugged in Spain?

Is pickpocketing common in Germany?

Pickpocketing in Germany

This can happen anywhere, but be extra careful on public transport and tourist hotspots. Some main areas you will need to keep a lookout are Alexanderplatz in Berlin, as well as parks in Kreuzberg. Stealing from people dining at a cafe or restaurant is common in Berlin.