How can I avoid pickpockets on holiday?

Every year, thousands of British holidaymakers are pickpocketed while on holiday – but there are ways to protect yourself. Here, theatrical pickpocket Lee Thompson – a member of the Magic Circle – explains the tricks of the trade and how to protect your belongings.

WHO DO PICKPOCKETS TARGET? People who seem distracted or vulnerable are the prime targets. “Pickpockets typically strike when attention wavers, or when someone leaves their valuables unguarded,” Thompson says. He also warns that wearing expensive jewellery can attract attention, so don’t. “Opt for modest attire that doesn’t scream ‘tourist’ – and avoid designer shopping bags.”

WHERE DO THEY OPERATE? Pickpockets work mostly in busy tourist areas, such as markets, and at crowded transit hubs – either alone or in groups. In the latter case, teams are adept at creating distractions. “This could be anything from a game to a loud shout, all designed to avert your attention while an unseen accomplice steals your valuables,” warn the Metropolitan Police, “so try not to get distracted.” They also operate in shops where people stand still, making them prime targets: “It’s easier for them to brush past people, take items and blend into the crowd,” the Metropolitan Police add.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON TRICKS? “Beware friendly strangers,” Thompson says. “They may cause sudden commotions. These will divert your attention, so stay focused and assertive. This is especially important in crowded areas where pickpockets are most active.”

The Metropolitan Police warn of so-called hugger muggers: “They know all the tricks and are light-fingered, with most of their thefts taking a second or two. One tactic is ‘hugger mugging’ where a thief will appear to be overfriendly for no particular reason and hug you while pickpocketing you.”

WHICH ITEMS ARE STOLEN MOST? Pickpockets thrive on access, according to Thompson. “Items like phones stick out from pockets, while bags left on chairs present an opportunity – wallets, phones, passports: no item is off-limits. Leave valuables in your hotel safe,” he adds. “Also, leave non-essential items there. Carrying bulky gadgets and too much cash makes you more vulnerable. Minimise your load to essential items and keep them close at hand.”

WHAT IS DIGITAL PICKPOCKETING? In the digital age, pickpocketing has evolved beyond the realm of sleight of hand, Thompson explains. “Criminals use modern technology to steal personal information and funds remotely.

Thieves can scan credit cards and passports from a distance, using devices such as card skimmers and RFID [Radio Frequency Identification] readers. They can do this without the victim even realising.” To guard against this, Thompson suggests purchasing an RFID wallet – which can block these signals – or special card sleeves which create a barrier against electronic scanning.

HOW CAN I DETER PICKPOCKETS? “Maintaining vigilance is key,” says Thompson. “If you sense that someone is following you, change direction and appear alert. A pickpocket thrives on anonymity. They will lose interest if they suspect you are onto them.”

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF TARGETED? Thompson recommends that tourists trust their instincts. “Seek refuge in a shop or a crowded, well-lit area; report suspicious activity to the authorities right away; and take proactive steps to safeguard your belongings,” he says.

It is key to place your personal safety above the safeguarding of your belongings, and to try and defuse confrontations when possible. “Pickpockets generally aim to avoid confrontation,” Thompson says, adding that “things can escalate if they feel threatened”.

i Light-fingered: pickpockets tend to target holidaymakers who are distracted and most of their thefts take only a second or two