Beware of Pickpockets in Europe! Recognize Their Sneaky Tricks and How to Avoid Them

Many countries in Europe are often favorite destinations for tourists from all over the world thanks to their enchanting charm. However, behind that beauty, some European countries are also known to be prone to pickpockets with quite a high number of incidents.

Not a few tourists, being careless, end up losing wallets, passports, or phones due to the cunning and unpredictable tricks of pickpockets while in Europe. Therefore, it is important for every traveler to recognize the common tricks used by pickpockets in Europe and to prepare preventive measures so that vacations remain safe and comfortable.

Why Are European Countries Known for Having Many Pickpockets?

Europe is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Every year, millions of tourists come to enjoy the history, culture, and beauty of its many cities.

Iconic cities such as Paris with the Eiffel Tower, Rome with the Colosseum, Barcelona with Gaudí’s works, Prague with the Old Town, and Amsterdam with its canals are always filled with tourists from around the globe.

However, the high flow of tourists makes these areas favorite targets for pickpockets. Crowds at popular spots, long lines at tourist attractions, and busy shopping centers create ideal opportunities for criminals to act without being easily detected.

Tourist Destinations in Europe Prone to Pickpockets

As mentioned above, many big cities in Europe are known as “paradises” for pickpockets due to the crowds of tourists who are often careless with their belongings. Paris, France, for example, has a high reputation for pickpocketing, especially around the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the crowded metro network.

Barcelona, Spain, also frequently appears on lists of cities with the highest pickpocketing rates in the world. The bustling La Rambla, Barceloneta Beach, and public transportation such as the metro are favorite locations for pickpockets.

In Rome, Italy, historic and religious centers such as the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican are vulnerable points. The large crowds of tourists moving in groups give pickpockets plenty of freedom to act.

Prague, Czech Republic, although famous for its romantic Old Town Square and Charles Bridge, is not free from pickpockets either. Tourists mesmerized by the city’s architecture often fail to notice when their valuables are being targeted.

In addition, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, is also worth caution. The city center, the area around Dam Square, and entertainment districts such as the Red Light District are often packed with tourists and at the same time targeted by pickpockets.

Common Pickpocket Tricks in Europe

Many pickpockets in major European cities use various cunning tricks to distract tourists before taking their valuables. By recognizing the most common methods, you can be more alert to your surroundings.

Crowding on Public Transport

Pickpockets often operate on crowded metros, trams, or buses. They will stand very close to their victims, covering the view with a jacket, newspaper, or shopping bag.

That is when they act—some pretend to brush against zippers to open bags, some cut through thin fabric or canvas bags (known as bag slashing), and some simply snatch items when the vehicle doors are about to close, then run away quickly.

Spill Scam

Another trick involves pretending to spill something on the victim’s clothing, such as sauce, drinks, or a liquid that looks like bird droppings. After that, their accomplices will come offering “help” to clean it up with tissues or water. While the victim’s attention is diverted, another accomplice discreetly takes the wallet or phone.

Petition or Request for Signature/Donation

Sometimes pickpocket gangs consist of groups of people (often teenagers) carrying clipboards or sheets of paper. They pretend to ask for signatures or support, diverting the victim’s attention.

While the victim is busy writing or answering, their friends sneak into the bag to steal belongings. Another variation involves pretending to ask for donations in cash. Once the victim opens their wallet, the thieves can see where the money is and target it.

Aggressive Beggars/Street Performers

Sometimes individuals approach in different ways—by offering goods, playing music too close, or demanding money aggressively.

While the victim’s attention is diverted, their accomplices discreetly unzip bags from the other side. Sometimes they pretend to accidentally bump or press too close in order to slip a hand into the victim’s bag.

“Fake Tourists” Acting Friendly

Some pickpockets pretend to be tourists. They usually ask for help taking photos, ask for directions with a large map, or carry out the “ring scam”—pretending to find a ring/bracelet and then asking for money. While the victim is confused, accomplices quietly take their wallet or phone from the bag.

Safety Tips to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe

When traveling to Europe, vigilance is important. Pickpockets usually act quickly and are skilled at creating distractions, so valuables can change hands without notice. Therefore, it is wise to prepare preventive measures beforehand.

Use a Bag with a Zipper in Front of Your Body

On trains, buses, or crowded tourist sites, place your bag in front, not on your back. Pickpockets often take advantage of backpacks to unzip them unnoticed. If possible, use a bag with lockable zippers for extra safety.

Keep Important Items in Separate Places

Passports, cash, and cards should not be stored in regular bags. It is safer to keep them in a money belt or thin wallet worn under clothing. This makes them harder for pickpockets to reach. So even if a thief manages to get into your bag, your important documents remain safe.

Carry Just Enough Cash

Do not store all your cash in one place. It is better to separate it into several pockets or use cards for daily transactions. That way, if a bag or wallet is stolen, you will not immediately lose all your funds.

Do Not Easily Trust Overly Helpful Strangers

If a stranger is overly friendly offering to take photos, showing a large map, or suddenly handing you something, be cautious. Often it is just a way to distract you while their accomplices steal your belongings.

Hold Your Bag While Walking

When walking on sidewalks or crossing streets, hold your bag firmly. Do not let it hang loosely. Better yet, use a crossbody bag worn in front, making it harder for pickpockets or snatchers to grab.

Traveling to Europe More Safely and Connected with Global Komunika

In addition to keeping your belongings safe from pickpockets while in Europe, make sure your internet connection is always stable and secure with an eSIM from Global Komunika!

With Global Komunika eSIM, you can enjoy your trip in Europe without worrying about the network:

• Stay online easily – Check transport maps, book museum tickets, and stay connected with family seamlessly.
• Save more without expensive roaming – Rates are much friendlier compared to traditional roaming.
• Super fast activation – Simply scan the QR code, and you are connected as soon as you arrive at the airport.
• Perfect for multi-destination trips – From Italy, Germany, to Switzerland, one eSIM can accompany your journey.

Order your Global Komunika eSIM now, and enjoy your trip to Europe with peace of mind—your belongings stay protected, and your internet connection is always ready to accompany your holiday moments!