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Life

10th Nov 2017

Five European cities where pickpocketing is a major problem

Heading on a weekend break?

Cathy Donohue

There’s nothing like jetting off for a city break for a weekend but when travelling, it’s wise to be extra careful.

Trip Advisor has released a list of the European cities most targeted by pickpocketers.

Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, Prague and Rome are the prime places in Europe  where people’s belongings are stolen.

According to the Daily Mail 300 thefts per day are reported per day in Barcelona.

Christine Peterson, marketing officer for Trip Advisor said: “Not always a basic “lift-and-run” operation, expert pickpocketing can sometimes involve more complicated scams.

“Travellers need to be aware of all kinds of tricks meant to distract them from their belongings while enjoying popular world attractions”.

The popular travel website warns people to be aware of the ‘distraction technique’ whereby someone drops something or knocks against you as this can leave you off guard.

When travelling, avoid storing items in your back pocket and try to keep your belongings in a small purse/wallet making it difficult for pickpocketers to find.