I was at the Louvre Museum and I saw some mutes. I decided to give on money.. Big mistake. I opened my purse and gave her $ 5.00. She stumped her feet and was furious, i was totally off guard. She stuck her hand in my purse and took $20.00 and stuck it in her bra and walked away. I was frozen in shock.
@mingliu Mindless comment. I have encountered similar incidents in most large cities. Some people don't know because they don't travel much or just smaller towns. The vic tims are re ckless with their stuff, ex phone in back pocket. Ex large Us city where you can't access your phone on public transportation..
In Italy, we were on the subway. An Italian man warned us of the group of teens around us were pickpockets. The teens got very angry at the man. We were so thankful to this man.
In Italy, crooks will even robe u ur balls if u bend a little , police and security men are engaged in such activities too using scanners and other advanced gadgets for security, beware
I'm parisian, born in paris. I can spot them right away because i take the metro everyday. Sometimes i tell tourists to be very careful. But even if you think you're careful you should even be 10 times more careful in the metro (line1, line 6, touristy lines) and in places like tour eiffel, montmartre... just be extra cautious. Parisians are used to so even if we seem not to be paying attention we unconsciously are always a bit on alert. So please tourists be extra cautious or leave expensive and important stuff at the hotel or in a safe box. Very good video and very informative!!!
Well, in most Metros in large cities (they don't have to be necessarily tourist cities) another often used trick is when someone is sitting near the entrance texting on a phone. There's a guy waiting at door and because he or she is so involved in his/her own world, the doors open, he waits in front of the one on the cellphone, and just as they're closing, he snatches the phone and jumps out.
Thanks and sorry your police force is so dysfunctional, Parisian person. it is sad to see features of misery somehow attached to the greatness and immortality of French cultural inheritance.
What a very good observation on 4:22 "Group of Women With Large Empty Bags". Large bag or coat in front of them, covering their hands. I had not realized this. Thanks!
That's also a thing retail stores look out for (at least in the US, I'm sure other countries too). That's a yellow flag that they may be shoplifters. One such woman took the money out of her bra instead of the bag
I live in Ecuador and the scam here is that one person tosses fake bird poop on your back or shoulder, then a "helpful" accomplice rushes in to wipe it off--taking your stuff in the process. It happened to my husband twice--the first time, he tossed his backback to the ground in confusion and they made off with it. The second time, he pulled pepper spray from his pocket and the thieves ran off. I, too, always keep my phone, keys, money and ID in a money belt. If they take my backpack, they're going to get an umbrella, some sunscreen and a hairbrush!
Lleve en un bolsillo una carterista barata rellena de pañuelos de papel sucios con moco y algunas piedrecitas, y una nota con alguna palabrota malsonante.😂 yo llevo un bolsón inflado con bolsas vacías, pero se me ha ocurrido meter también lo que le acabo de decir, con sus pañuelos sucios.
I am a seasoned traveller who has been pickpocketed IN Europe. I often comment about taking care through out Europe for pickpockets, scammers and thieves and get sooo much hate from commenters who claim that Europe ( especially Paris and Rome ) are so safe and they never felt worried!! Rookie mistake and costly for the niaive new travellers who read these inacurate comments go with a false sense of safety.
I too once got pickpocketed while standing in line buying tickets at a railway station. This particular pickpocket was working alone so when one of the bystanders alerted me I ran after him and got back my wallet. It was a relief to get back my money so quickly.
I developed an anti-theft strategy many years ago in Paris, and I have not had any problems since. I don't carry a wallet and don't wear a backpack. My iPhone goes into the front left pocket of my jeans, and I carry a credit and debit card on the right, plus a little bitty change purse with some cash. If someone wants to rob me, they would have to approach from the front and manage to fish something out of the pockets of my rather tight jeans. And of course you need to be wary of people who approach you on the street - they are probably trying to distract you so their mates can grab something.
I took my daughter to Spain for Christmas back in 2019. There were a couple of times where I had to be “rude.” I’m generally polite, but it wasn’t my first time in Spain or Europe. My daughter was initially taken aback by my “rudeness” but I explained why I did it and why it was necessary to protect us.
In Rome a gypsy tried to steal my purse. They started a fight to distract people while a large man/gypsy tried to grab my purse. I karate chopped his arm. The shock on his face - priceless! A friend traveling in Europe warned me and was pickpocketed - she lost her passport and wallet. So when I traveled, I used a Travelon bag reinforced with metal mesh and a RFID protected wallet. The bag also has locks on the zippers and can be worn as a crossbody. Bag was purchased on QVC.
We live in Ecuador and are fairly well travelled. We've never been pickpocketed but we are wise. Traveling works but Package brand has better hardware both available on Amazon for reasonable prices. Never dig into your purse or wallet on the streets we keep the cash we know we need separately. I sometimes put it in my bra. My husband keeps his wallet on a chain in his front pocket. The chain is because he once lost his wallet in the toilet.
Ditto. We both use Pacsafe waist bags and hang onto them for dear life if we're in crowds. Also have a separate stash of pocket money and ID easy to access. And it's so nice now to have credit cards on the iPhone.
I had a cross body bag, but yobs on a scooter, they simple grabbed it, kept going and dragged me down. A hip injury was the least of my problems. Rome is quite horrid. So many stolen bags emptied and left in the streets. Men making very sexual advances in crowded areas are disgusting.
👍🏻👍🏻 Senior Female Solo Traveler. I bought an “anti-theft” crossbody bag for my trip to Europe. It had scan proof sleeves for cards and passport, locking zippers, and wire cable through the straps so they couldn’t be cut. In Paris I didn’t have anything stolen, but was surprised to find cut marks on straps upon return to hotel one day, and I had no idea when it happened. 😳😱 after that I was more watchful for what I “didn’t see coming” as well as threat right in front of me. I was also targeted in the metro tunnel at Heathrow Airport in London. Two guys were trailing me, I would stop against wall, pretend to be sorting out something, so they had to walk by me. I tried to keep them in front of me, but they kept ‘circling’ around. Upon approaching the elevator up to the terminal a young lady approached (asking for directions ?) and I barked “ NO ! “ and growled at her, she backed off, and so did her partners, looking for new prey. Upstairs I found airport agents and informed them of team working tunnel. I know when I’m being ‘sharked’, the circling before attack behavior, from the real thing in the islands. 😁👍🏻
Wow that is crazy !! I’m also a solo traveler. I went to Paris and luckily it went well. I was very wary because I had seen many videos like this. Luckily everything went well. But hopefully when I return many times in the future, I’ll continue to not have a problem. Because I have heard some crazy horror stories. I also wear a Crossbody bag, but not an antitheft one so that’s actually a great tip. Thank you for that. I’m gonna find one just to be on the safer side.
My mother fell for the "nicely dressed helpful man" at a ticket booth and lost her passport and wallet the day she was supposed to leave the country. That certainly made me more aware and proactive. Watching videos like this can add some anxiety when preparing for a trip to Paris (or any large touristy city), but knowing what to look for has made my frequent visits to Paris uneventful, in a good way.
Hi Lesfrenchies. I am going to Paris during the summer when the Olympics are in town. Are you going to do episodes on where to eat, places to visit, places to avoid, etc. I am also interested in transportation to and from venues. I would appreciate any advice and information. We are staying at an Airbnb in the 9th district. Please share your wisdom so my family has a great time and experience. Love your episodes. Doctor Dave 😊😊
that is really horrible. ticket booths seem to be a place where their prey is targetted. My boyfriend was buying a ticket from a ticket machine in London and he put his bag down and a woman took it. I always now make sure I am no one all around me at all times with a few feet, and if they get close I move or tell them to back off. we are being watched all the time.
I think there are a couple of rules: - if you are a tourist don’t let “other tourists” ask you for anything / directions - don’t accept strangers that come to help you (get lighter…), if you need help, go yourself ask for help to a policeman, subway worker, etc.. - get a backpack with a zip pocket towards your back. I have one from Samsonite and one from a Spanish company and both have such a pocket for your documents and money. I only have food and unimportant stuff towards the outside.
@@daviddiaz6038the rules for Paris apply for EVERY big city. I was in Paris for a week and I never felt in danger or worried IF you just keep your money and documents on a backpack with a zip pocket towards your back. On every major city with a lot of tourism you’ll have pickpockets (specially in Barcelona…). Just don’t do tourism at night and on lonely streets. Other than that… have FUN!
When I was in the Navy, I always carried Canadian Tire money in a money clip in countries where pickpockets are a problem; it looks real, but it is worthless.
What is Canadian Tire Money worth? Canadian Tire Money: Coupon Collecting Worth Thousands ... To mark the company's 75 years in the retail trade, Canadian Tire issued a special edition anniversary series for all denominations. These notes can fetch anywhere from $300 to $2,000.
In Paris it is rampant and infamous for it, same as Barcelona. I thought I was street-smart and careful, but I got my phone lifted in Paris exiting the metro.
We met an Irish Couple on New Years at a *nice* Milan Hotel. She had, at some point, been a pickpocket. But they were on to bigger grifts. After a few drinks, I caught her taking my phone over cocktails. My Husband rang my phone & it went off in her purse & she freaked out, suddenly accusing me of accusing her of being a thief. She was loud, screaming, waiving her arms. Her Partner was *mad at her* but kept it tamped down. He was absolutely pissed off that she went for my iPhone when they were working a bigger grift…
Kind of strange that you carried on drinking with them when she had told you they were grifters. I would have immediately ended contact. If people tell you what they are, believe them.
I binged all of your videos before my fiancée and I went to Paris for a month and we have not become victim of any scams or pickpockets! Our secret as Americans is to dress like a Parisian and don’t speak any English out loud from the second you walk into the metro station! MERCI LES FRENCHIES ❤
When I lived in South America, I never dressed like a tourist, and I never let my daughters speak to me in English in public. I was only pickpocketed once at a festival and I knew (in hindsight) when and how it happened because it was an odd moment that stuck out to me. I only lost a camera and no money.
I live in south America and cannot hide my Scandinavian ancestry. I dress generically (jeans, hoodie, ballcap, sneakers) when out and about. Love the people but they stare at me. Lol
I was in Paris for a week. I just used common sense, nothing in my pockets (e.g. money, ID), my cross-body pouch always zipped and in front of me, making sure to know where I was going before so I did not look like a "lost tourist," I placed my pouch under my jacket in the train. I NEVER listened to anyone offering stuff, signatures, or anything, and I never left my cell at the coffee shop table. I had a wonderful vacation with no issues at all. Just bring what you need when you go out, and leave everything else at the hotel.
As an airline Captain imagine my surprise when getting ready to leave New Orleans a passenger leaned into the cockpit and said,”Hey, I don’t know if you care but there’s a pickpocket working your boarding line.” The spotter waived the thief off when I popped out to have the ticket agent call the cops. Calm and cool, they both walked off before the cops could make the scene. I’ll give them props for nerve and inventiveness. Cues are prime target areas for pickpockets.
Thanks for sharing this! Pickpocketing is a problem for any tourist attraction in or out of Paris. I've had an experience myself in another city and they do operate as a team. I kind of knew that something was off, I suspected the two were the look-outs, then me and my friend got approached by a group of young men in their 20s. Fortunately, their plan was foiled since we fought back and shouted in public. No one was hurt.
I’ve been watching your videos since 2021 and THANK GOD! Because of you and your wife’s videos I was well equipped to visit Paris twice in 2022 and it was pure perfection! Aside from all the amazing content on where to stay, eat, shop, site see, transportation, etc. this one is equally important. I caught my pick-pocketer in action on the train from the CDG airport! As I was about to sit down, a kid walked in front of me abruptly stopping me in my tracks, rather than focus on the kid, I immediately I swung my head around and saw a man’s hand in my bag! They were so embarrassed, they quickly walked off the train. Then at the Louvre a woman came up to me with a clipboard and asked me a nonsensical question and I sternly told her I was not interested and she left. Unfortunately my girlfriend got her Metro card stolen despite me advising her not to put stuff in her outside pockets, only inside pockets. Thank you and Colleen for all of your videos! I can’t wait to visit Paris again!
We were in Paris for under 30 minutes (Gare Du Nord Metro) and were getting on the metro train. A guy stepped in front of me separating me from my wife and daughter. Then he grabbed the carry on bag that I had and tried to move it away from me. I pulled back, felt something touch my left side and twisted to the left. The thief got my wallet out, but I injured his hand and he dropped it on the train. The original guy threw my bag off the train at which point I threw him off the train, retrieved the bag and wallet and got back on the train. It all happened in a few seconds. During this whole process I was not quiet and was looking for an opportunity to land a punch (hockey player). Anyone who tried to grab my bag in the US would have been greeted by my Springfield.
@@曾幼芬 Thank you. Unfortunately it had a big impact on our two under 16 year old girls. The good thing was that they brought their phones and most other valuables to our room for safe keeping each morning that we were in Paris.
Please don't forget ATMs. I was robbed at an ATM in Paris by two men acting as a team in just the way you're describing in this video. Thank you for taking the time to post this important public service announcement.
*Pickpockets in Paris, then how about this:* From my experience in Paris: my credit card was copied by the cashier at the Port de Clichy metro station. All ticket machines were covered with paper saying "Out of order," handwritten. The only option to buy tickets was at the cashier. I handed him my card, he dropped it from his side, picked it up... and that was it. Three days later, someone from Amsterdam tried to withdraw money from my account. Fortunately, my bank blocked the transaction and then the card. What can I say... Paris!
I was in Paris for 3 days last May with several family members. and we were targeted on the metro by a group of three young women. One asked my sister-in-law (in English) how to get to a metro stop--and kept asking the same simple questions over and over, pointing up to the metro map. I was suspicious and pointedly stared at her friend who was standing right next to my cousin. When another girl started asking him questions in English I called them out, said they were just trying to distract us. The metro stopped and they hopped out in a hurry, Since we had all valuables in zippered money belts, they wouldn't have gotten anything anyway!
This is really helpful! I went to Paris last May and thankfully we didn't have an issue. However, we did sit next to a group of girls who ended up getting on the same train as us. Shortly into the ride a Frenchman started yelling at them, what seemed to be, out of nowhere and they ended up getting off on the next stop. Now I know why.
The way I roll here is, as soon as any stranger, male or female, approaches me with, “Madame, bonjour, excusez-moi…”, I just bluntly say, “No, merci” and keep walking (or doing whatever).
@@rj-jl5nv If you are a foreigner in Paris (or wherever), it is unlikely that you will be able to help in any case, so why loose any sleep over it ? Besides, with a population of more than 2 million, there will be no shortage of locals to ask, I would have thought...
Thanks for contributing to a cold world where no one is helping anymore. So pray that you'll never need any help from others!! My French cousin was hit by a truck in Paris and laid for hours blooding on the pavement... 😢 Mankind on doom! 😢
I love this warning. For myself, I am a sitting duck, ripe for the plucking although I have never been a victim because I exude poverty. My wife on the other hand is the Poirot of pickpocket spotters. We were at the Gare du Lyon in the TGV departure area on our way to Bezier. I was busy aimlessly wandering around the Gare du Lyon and upon returning, talked to my wife, I asked her how it was going, she advised me that there were at least 5 pickpockets in the departure area that she had spotted. She had sat through one boarding and saw the way the French compressed the boarding time for a particular train because there are so many departures. This encourages passengers to rush the gate to the quai at boarding time and this, for the pickpocket, is the perfect time to spring into action in this bunched up crowd. People are distracted by a number of things - their tickets, their luggage, their phones, their children, their partner, and their proximity to others and they become careless with their wallets and sac á main. It’s an environment full of potential opportunities for the pickpockets and they do take advantage.
Such great information. And thank you for mentioning a money belt! Rick Steves said the only time he ever was pickpocketed was on a Paris Metro and it was a day that he wasn't wearing his money belt. We wear money belts when we travel abroad. It only contains our passport, emergency cash, bank card, and backup credit card. I actually kept my daily use credit card in a bra wallet that I could very discreetly take in and out when needed. I wore crossbody bag that I had a carabiner latched onto the zipper that hooked on to an outside loop. Just one extra step to get in my bag, but it made me feel more secure. Of course, I also kept my hand on my bag. And we were always keeping our eyes out and nothing in our pcokets. My son rolled his eyes and said "you made it seem like we were going to get pickpocketed every time we were on the train!" I told him, we were just smart!
When I was a student in Paris, I had a Carte Orange, it was a monthly ticket and could go on the bus, train, metro, RER, once I put my pass through slot in the turnstile and was about to push the turnstile and retrieve my pass from the slot but a guy right in the parallel turnstile abruptly stole my monthly from the slot and jumped his turnstile, taking off with my new monthly pass.
Pay attention people! do not get so engaged in conversation that you are not aware. If in a group , watch each other , sit opposite one another and pay attention , or some in your party should behave as look-outs , watching the surroundings.
I carry an anti-theft slash proof back pack with no visible zippers on the outside. I think that helps too. That, and situational awareness, which is even increased by sound advice like you are so generously offering here. Thanks!❤
Thanks you two! Heck, it's just been September since we were in Paris and this video got us thinking how soon will we come back! My wife and I were walking on the south side of Notre Dame a few years ago when suddenly a Chinese tour guide who was talking to a big group of Chinese people turned to us and said, " Watch out! That person with the survey is going to take your bag!" It was amazing how he saw it while he was busy with his group. The survey person quickly scurried away.
Great video, great advice - I agree with it all. 2 extras - The 'helper' at the metro ticket machine can also be a spotter, they will be on an open conference call through their air pods passing on who has what/where. Also, a distractor at the top of stairs blocking, causing a queue while the thieves join at the bottom in a train station - very effective. This advice is good for Rome too.
my friend had that at Leytonstone tube station, they worked in 3s, one spotter outside the, the other in the middle and the one taking the phone. My friend only has cheap pay as you go phones. he gave them one to avoid being knived, and I think the thief was disappointed phone was so rubbish. my friend had a spare phone at the time and called the police, thieves forget person may hae 2 phones, and even a crappy one can all police. i carry a dummy smart phone
The general idea is don't accept "spontaneous" help. If you need some help pick the person yourself like the person who just bought a ticket right before you. As other people have said French people are quite reserved and the general rule in metro is mind your own business, but if you ask for help many people would actually try to help you. Also another "rule" is people tend to stand quite distant so anyone trying to get too close is a sign. Contrary to popular belief, "sardine packed" metros are not that dangerous. Pickpocket can't move around, can't choose target and if they get caught they have nowhere to go. There's the grab-and-run-away risk but at those times platform tends to be crowded too so that would be risky for them.
Good advice.. 😊 Another useful tip for women is if you have a handbag with a flap,ALWAYS put the flap towards your body so it's more difficult to open! Outside ones are an easy target to uplift by pickpockets!
Pickpocketed on Metro by 4 young girls. As I was getting into. train, hey asked me if I spoke English and as i turned my head one girl behind me had my phone and wallet. A very nice French women saw this and told girls to put it back. They did and quickly got off train before doors closed.
I saw this video one month ago before going to Paris and I thank you very much !! 🙏🙏 .... Just arrived in Paris, after 30 seconds I had been waiting on Montmartre steps, with all the bags with me, I was approached by a young woman who pretended to present herself deaf-mute, with a hardback folder with a presumed petition for that kind of people. She put the folder quite aggressively under my nose, exactly the tactic you showed in this or in the other video. Despite being aware, it takes some seconds before I realized well the situation, because they're trained in showing off nice and gentle. Anyway I made her sign to back off and go away .....she even complained about it So glad that 5 minutes later I saw a group of policemen who circled the girls, with one of them pulling the folder away quite rudely from her hands. I was happy of this deed. I approached them, and I thanked the officiers, and I stared the woman, saying some ironic and angry words. She clearly recognised me, and it's incredible their total lack of empathy. She had not emotional no physical reaction. They're like sharks or demons
We had a wonderful visit to Paris. Many thanks to Les Frenchies for their informative videos. We watched a number of the videos prior to our arrival. Tips for navigating the metro, restaurant etiquette, and awareness of pickpockets, were most helpful. Merçi beaucoup!
Watched this wideo on the day we arrived in Pais. Got it done to me 2 days later. We were a group of 4. A group of 6 women and one man got in between the women in our group and myself and brother in law. 2 off them blocked up one side of the train entrance and stood their ground while the other 5 blocked the other side and we got squashed in between them and the closing doors, there was a lot of shouting and pushing with the train leaving the station. Within 30 seconds I had lost about $250 in cash before I noticed them in my bag. Didn’t loose any credit cards. This was a well rehearsed and professional team targeting one person. They all jumped off at the next station.
@@Dguier. It was on the Metro , it was as we were boarding, they pushed in between the 2 women in our group and they separated myself and my brother in law. I believe I was the target when we all boarded. I feel the only things too have avoided this was not to get separated from my group. Be more assertive when boarding the metro. I was probably too courteous and letting them on first as they were mostly young women. And be more aware what was going on around me and what was going on. Looking back on it as soon as it was too tight to get in the train. We should have not got on and waited till the next one in 6 minutes time. But my wife and sister were already on the train and we didn’t want to get separated in a city that we didn’t know. We are travellers from Australia . Very different city from what we are used to. But lesson learnt and was a lot more vigilant when we used the Metro while we were in Paris.
Before traveling I sew velcro on my inside suit or coat pockets. This can be done with pockets having zippers too. Very tough for a pick pocket to undo the velcro on an inside pocket since stealth and quickness is their advantage. I've had some pick pocket attempts foiled.
I just started binge watching your videos. Loving it. Thank you for sharing. I am Dutch and living in Amsterdam, so just a mere 4 hours train ride. Last time I visited Paris is 10 years ago. Your tips and the dos & dons are more than welcome. Merci.
Very informative video. Thank you! Our last trip to Paris we were walking up the steps at Pont Neuf after a boat ride and a pregnant woman put her hand in my husbands pocket. He grabbed her hand straight away and yelled out pickpocket. She ran but at the top of the stairs was another of her "colleagues" and at the bottom of the steps another who was waiting for her. They were dressed nicely and unassuming. Be diligent no matter what city.
I remember when I was pickpocketed for first time. They explained it just the way it is. I entered in metro very fast, i was talking with friend, i did not keep an eye on my belonging, and just when I was geting out i noticed that I do not have my wallet, I was typical victim of pickpokets! Amazing how they broke down the steps of them!
My husband and I are Latinos (he's Mexican, and I'm Colombian). When we visited Paris last year, we were more than prepared to deal with pickpocketers. We're used to seeing suspicious people and avoiding situations like those. I bought an anti-theft backpack from Amazon for this trip, which I highly recommend. I would put my money in the backpack, and ou important documents and Navigo cards in my fanny pack, which I would wear under my coat (we visited during early spring, so it was still a bit chilly). It also helped that I speak French.
Thanks for the tips. Not Paris but in Rome.. I stopped a thief while he was trying to steal out of a purse. This was a group of ladies and a Tour Guide was explaining the Coliseum history. They were in a semi circle facing the tour guide. . The thief was going person to person., purse to purse. I confronted him, yelled loudly and chased him down and took a photo and left him there. The Tour operator got on his walkie talkie and notified all the other Tour Guides who are the same intercom wave length. He then called the cops. I showed them the photo. They found him about 200 yards away pulling the same scam. I identified the guy and off he went to jail. Who was he.? . A Gypsy and known thief. Also caught was his partner who gets the hand off of the stolen goods. The only scam I fell for in Paris was an American student saying the need $5 for some kind of pass at the airport. When I figured it out was when I was leaving Paris and he was in the same spot doing the same thing. His name was Rhyss (you don't forget these things) and from a wealthy family in the San Francisco area. He was a UC Berkeley student. You never know.
@@jeffhildreth9244I’m pretty sure they do have bosses, since from everything I’ve heard, there are pickpocketing “rings”. I doubt they keep whatever they can steal.
One of the things I do is go into a bank during banking hours to use an ATM; In the UK there is usually a bank employee near a `front desk` and it would be highly problematic for pickpockets in such circumstances.
I have visited all of the typical European pickpocket cities (Rome, London, Paris, Barcelona, Prague, etc.). Only once has someone attempted, and failed terribly, to pick my pocket (on a city bus in Rome). My friend, however, had her phone stolen out of her hands taking pictures at Montmartre. We’re actually traveling to Paris (and all around France 🇫🇷) in about three weeks, so just checking out your page to get reacquainted with Paris (specifically the public transportation).
I want to thank you so much for this video ❤️ On 19 December this year, we travelled to Paris for a day trip during our London holiday. Already at the Gare du Nord, people tried to accost us in the station concourse in order to steal from us. However, in the metro to Notre Dame, a pickpocket almost succeeded when she already had her hand in my mum's handbag, using a method mentioned in your video. Luckily, I noticed this straight away, so I was able to scare the person off even when I was tired. Thanks to your video, I was very well prepared for such situations in Paris 👌
Super informative video with plenty of helpful tips. Thanks, Antoine & Colleen!! We've been to Paris several times and feel safer in Europe than we do in larger U.S. cities. The closest we came to any pickpocketing was at Sacre Coeur, when a group of young men "selling" rings tried to force one on my finger. When I protested, they raised a stink, but my husband raised a larger stink and they backed off. Thankfully hubby had his wallet in an inside jacket pocket and I kept a grip on my purse, so nothing was stolen. But otherwise, we enjoy Paris and feel safe.
I just came from Paris last month. Everything went smooth until our last day when we went to visit Sacre Coeur. About to ride the metro on our way back when suddenly my navigo pass didn’t work even though there’s still some load in it. Had to go thru customer service to have it checked and was instructed to go thru the double doors instead of the turnstile. Lo and behold, I got pickpocketed and lost my phone in a matter of minutes. Police are no help at all, so don’t even try asking for help.
Lost my phone to a pickpocket just glad is was a cheap one. Just rack it up to experience and know better next time. Most of the time with those cards is it detects some type of fraud like your letting someone else in on your card. First time I used it i double swiped it and it locked me out.
Exactly. POLICE ARE USELESS. So if you see any of those scammers try to impersonate a police officer, it's a huge cluer and you should laugh in their face because even when one gets robbed and alerts the real police, those police are USELESS anyway!
When i heard phrase "Paris is a safe place" i felt like i was just pick pocketed. Such genuine level of honesty in this sentence. Bien essayé quand même.
I ordered a pair of special 'pickpocket proof' shorts before I went to Europe. They have outer and inner security pockets (with zippers). Basically pockets within pockets! I've been able to carry my Passport and thousands of dollars in cash with me this way, distributed over several inner pockets. I have never been pickpocketed, but on several occasions felt hands on me trying! They all failed, the bastards! These shorts were the best investment ever!
@@nordoc3156 Because my credit is completely shot, and I can't use 'plastic'! So I travel with cash, and guard it with my life! Sucks, but that's all I can do. I stay under the limit the government allows when travelling abroad.
While sight-seeing etc just have a photocopy of your passport or identity card. So long as it's legible it's accepted in case of a police control. Another great video!
It can, I got pick-pocketed for $13 souvenir when I was in Venice decades ago. I used to live in China and I'd have been going through my pockets every time that I was on a bus. One of the public services that I was providing was a decoy to pickpockets. They never got anything off me because my stuff was always secured in a pocket they couldn't get to. That being said, these sorts of criminals do a vary a bit depending upon where you are, when one of my friends got pick pocketed, we found her wallet and all the cards sitting on the curb for us to find after lunch. They took all the cash and had tried all the cards at one of the local ATMs from what I remember.
We stayed in a hotel on Rue Claire. There was a post office at the end of the street. We got up very early every morning & got our cash out. Very very few people were up that early. We also wore money belts ‘inside’ our pants. We were in Paris for 3 weeks & never had a problem. One proverb I always use when traveling: Don’t leave your common sense at home.
Just subscribed to your channel. As a Paris resident, may I offer one more suggestion for avoiding being pickpocketed. I always wear a jacket with an inside zippered pocket and keep my wallet and Navigo there. Larger items are in a small backpack that I hold in front of me when on the metro or buses, never worn on my back. Thanks for your excellent videos and tips on Paris.
I was a victim of pickpocket thieves once. My handbag was leather, shallow and open & I just came out of a bank. As I was on an escalator going up, a young man (teen or early 20’s) holding a toddler girl was rushing by me, stepping on escalator’s steps as if in a great hurry. Following him was a young boy, aged maybe 11 or 12, also in a rush as if they were in an emergency. The young man bumped against me as he passed me by on the escalator & I was very annoyed. 10 or 5 minutes later, I tried to buy something & found my wallet gone, with credit cards, driver’s license, etc. I immediately knew it was on the escalator that my wallet was taken because I had my wallet when I was in the bank. The young man holding the toddler and the boy - they didn’t look like thieves!
A while ago when I was naive and unaware I came within an inch of losing my wallet that was in my left front pocket. This was on the metro line 12 headed toward place des abbesses. Suddenly I felt a tickle and looked down to my left and saw a little man’s hand holding the wallet half way out of my pants. I stared him down and he acted like it was just a mistake. Some bad words in French slipped out of my mouth. After that awakening I always guard my personal belongings like they’re in a vault.
Another excellent video! I have been to Paris about 20 times but didn't know about the "women with large empty bags" gambit. I was picked once at Montparnasse on an early trip but luckily he only got a small pouch with extra camera batteries. There was a second attempt a few years ago at Odeon Metro station but I caught the guy with his fingers on my crossbody bag zipper -- he was slowed down by the Travelon zipper clips. I try to always stay aware, especially after the last attempt! Thanks for keeping us smart!
Outstanding video! This is the best best video on pickpocketing that I've ever seen, and I've seen a lot of them. I was in Paris last year and I'm going to Spain this year. I think this video applies to wherever you're traveling, not just Paris. I'm sure the pickpockets in Spain pull the same crap that they do in Paris.
Thank you so much for making this Video. Several years ago i was picked pocket in subway going to Paris ORLY Airport. We are American. You saved a lot of tourist people headaches and problems. We appreciate you !!
a) When I was pickpocketed on the metro, the method was that one of them knelt down on the floor and started adjusting my pant cuffs. While I was distracted and confused, one of the others slipped my wallet out of my pocket so smoothly I didn't even feel it. (These days when I travel, I always keep everything important in a pouch under my shirt rather than in a pocket.) b) You say never use an ATM alone. But what is your advice for solo travelers?
About ATaM. Just don't use them in tourist areas. Or have other non-sketchy people like other tourists or normal looking people minding their own business.
@@Ben-hg3bzCorrect. The Japanese, who are much more ordered in their public spaces, will have none of this. If you happen to drop your wallet in Japan, it will be quickly returned to you with the retreiver actually apologizing and bowing. This sort of response is unimaginable in today's Europe.
I'm Japanese and throughout this video, I'm preparing not to be stolen in foreign countries😂 Sadly, I heard some foreigners steal, so more Japanese become more careful nowadays. For example, I heard some or many JDM cars and those parts even are stolen because it'll be sold well overseas.
My father-in-law was pick pocketed TWICE last year while visiting Paris, I now have ZERO desire to visit, we can spend our $$$ in just as beautiful places elsewhere. None the less your videos are very helpful and informative, so I am grateful for them.
always has a life long dream to visit Paris, but now with everything going on, the crime, the Marxist government, ...hard pass. So many other great places to visit in the world.
My Parisian friends tell me they don’t carry purses - only totes - when they know they’ll be taking the Metro. Totes are harder to access for pickpockets - and the bags signal to the thieves that they are local, not tourists. Plus, there is a utilitarian reason for caring totes: most of my friends in Paris say they are stopping off at the grocery store on the way home from work, or doing a little shopping, so they like to have a larger bag to store these things.
@@PonkelinaCity dwellers carry totes. Couldn't survive in NYC without them. Folks who live in areas that are are car centered, have little use for totes.
@@Ponkelina - A tote is a larger bag for carrying things you pick up from shops or markets. Often my Parisian friends carry totes with museum logos, for example (more stylish than carrying a plain tote). Because they’re deeper than most purses, they are harder for pickpockets to access. Many are made of cotton, but you can get leather or faux leather totes, too!
Your channel is an amazing source of information. My wife and I are going to France at the end of June for about 2 and a half weeks. We feel quite confident with your advice to have a good time without any "disturbances." Thank you for your work. It is greatly appreciated.
Thank you for another great video; my teen and I are coming to Paris in the fall and your videos are so helpful in preparing for it; my teen is at that age where they feel invincible so it’s great that they can watch your videos and learn
My brother was with his daughters, was robbed in Paris Metro, despite being on guard and hes a seasoned traveller. He was robbed in the Metro, while the train was moving, by some teenage girls. Luckily for him, 2 paincloth policeman and woman were on the job in the same coach, they were caught. And he had to accompany them to lodge a Police report.
I grew up in NYC and have traveled a lot, so most of this is basic street smarts, situational awareness, etc. that will be useful anywhere. That said, thieves and scammers do have a different "game" depending on the part of the world you're in. I will definitely remember this the next time I'm in Europe.
On a trip to Germany with my choir back in the early 90’s, I wore a money/passport pouch under my shirt, having been warned about pickpockets. The director of our choir, who was actually from Germany, thought I was being a bit silly and overly cautious. But halfway through the 2-week trip, while we were all enjoying an open-air market in Mainz, it was him who had his wallet picked from his easy-target back pocket.
Thank you for your tips. I had no trouble in Paris, but I was pickpocketed in Barcelona on the Ramblas. I had done everything wrong with my packpack, so it was my own fault. But I learned a lesson!!
I wasnt robbed there :D But I had all my things in a small bag thats made in spain and very hard to open if you dont know how. Even the security in one of the places I visited asked me to open it cause they couldnt. I know pickpocketers also can grab the bag, so I was extra carefull with that too, always having it crossed over my body and not on the shoulder. So a good advice is to have a good quality bag, hard to steal from And not to engage in conversations with strangers. I recommand visiting Barcelona, just be carefull and it can be an amazing trip
Also? One thing to note: if you've been pickpocketed and had your passport or foreign residency visas stolen, you need to immediately go to a police station to file a report as you'll need that police eport to have your travel documents replaced.
Thank you so much for the videos. We just returned from Europe, and stayed in multiple cities, and spent the most time in Paris. From the " surveyors " under the Eiffel towers, to the less obvious pick pocketers that we noticed at the Metro ticket stations areas and in Metro trains, all of the tips really helped!! We had everything including wallets + passports in front body secured crossbody bag / Purse, so we did not fell victims. Thank you!!
The problem with trying to buy your Metro ticket at the ticket counter is sometimes the RATP staff doesn’t want to help by telling you to buy it at the ticket machine. The customer service in Paris, in general, is awful compared to other countries even after greeting them with a Bonjour or Bonsoir and being able to speak intermediate level of French with them. I feel that those tourists who can only say Bonjour/Bonsoir and switch into English immediately can get better customer service because they are obviously tourists in need of more assistance than tourists who can speak and understand intermediate level of French but are not fully fluent. That’s when the pickpockets would strike is when you are buying your ticket at the machine.
@@TheKucapaca And if I come to your country will you speak my language. Try to learn some words before travelling and use google for translation when you need help from people abroad who don't have to speak your language
What bothers me most is that because of those scumbags, tourists are suspicious of people who genuinely want to help. I manage a wine shop in Nice on the Côte d'Azur and when I am off work and cross path with tourists that are obviously looking for directions I will cross the street to offer my help because even if I have nothing to gain for it, I want to make my contribution to a pleasant stay, I want them to come back home saying that Nice is a beautiful and friendly place.
Yes but i can't blame them. In Paris, i offered to help some tourists who seemed to be lost quite a few times but they looked nervous but well i cant blame them, unfortunately there are so many stealers and people with bad intentions.
Unfortunately the world requires more suspicion than it should need be! Thank you for being kind! I was in Nice for two days in January, thoroughly enjoyed your beautiful city and I will be back!
Zipped isnt an obstacle they just unzip it. My advice is, before you leave your accomodation decide what you need for that day. Put anything else in the safe. Take a small purse and put only enough money for a coffee etc some very small change. You can use this infront of people. If pressured to give money you can give a few coins from your safe purse. Put your passport/id some larger notes or cashcard limited amount to withdraw. Keep this under your clothing i keep it on my belly under my vest etc. Never take this out in public. If you need it go somewhere like a toilet, take out what you want. Remember need help, not sure where to go? Head into the most expensive looking hotel and ask the receptionist for help. Safe travels
We were in Paris and witnessed an incident occur while a woman was getting off the train. They seem to prefer “transitions” (when folks are busy getting on/off public transportation, etc.). Then, we saw a group of boys matching a similar profile to what you mentioned, but my husband yelled across the tracks and they fled the scene and were unable to target their next victim who was standing a few feet away. Great job explaining. It didn’t happen to us because we were vigilant, but this advice is good anytime you are out sight seeing in any city.
As a senior solo traveler I had a wonderful shop keeper in Florence Italy who actually went with me to the ATM to retrieve money for a leather jacket I was buying. (cash got a better deal) As I was leaving his shop, he handed me my crossbody bag and put it against my chest. He patted it and said "please wear this in front always". The square in Florence is rife with pickpockets. Some of our guides even pointed them out.
15 years ago, while riding that very subway in that very station, a man pretended to lose his balance fall, and grab my leg, sticking his hand into my side pocket. There was nothing in that pocket, but it was obvious what he was trying to do, I screamed “this man is trying to steal from me !” Everyone on that train car turn their heads around and started staring and shaking their heads in shame for their country. He quietly looked down at the ground, and took a few steps away. The doors open, and he exited. That was my exit as well. I walked behind him. He then stopped and stood at the empty train station, staring at the tracks on the ledge. I stood behind him with his back, turn towards me. We were the only ones left at the station. He was right on the ledge, and I was angry enough to consider giving him a 300 kick down into the tracks. What would’ve happened if I had done that? Maybe he wouldn’t be pickpocketing anymore?
Thank you for sharing this information! I also keep my passport in a secure location at the hotel and bring only one ID and bank card and leave the rest also at the hotel/ Airbnb as backup!
9:35 _"Using ATM machines…"_ Well, these days you can pay almost everywhere in Europe with your smartphone or smartwatch. At least, Germany is still way behind and most German shops prefer cash. But Smart-Device payments are getting more popular, every year. I'm not sure how that works in France. I always try to avoid cash, whenever possible. I do bring cash, of course… just in case… In some countries in Eastern Europe, where they don't have the Euro, it helps to not withdrawal a lot of foreign currency. I use pay wireless, with either my bank card, or Apple Watch.
Lucky for me that I only experienced it once, that I was aware of, on the stairs down to the subway. I knew about the pickpockets prior to my trip to Paris and purchased Pacsafe bags for the trip. I brought along a decoy sling to distract the pickpockets if I ever encounter one but sure enough, the team of 2 went for the decoy. On my way down the stairs to the subway, I heard my zipper opening sound on the decoy bag, Pacsafe bags are cut proof, double locked, and tamper proof, I turned around and saw 2 young guys froze in place with sunglasses on both of them. I gave them a dirty look eyes forward and when I turned back again, the two guys were gone.
Wow. Thank you! The subway distraction one occurred to my husband and granddaughter a couple of years back; My husband - from Lima Peru - was wise to their tricks and made an even bigger fuss and they backed off. Terrifying. My granddaughter shutters at the memory.
Some places have signs with remarks like "caution: be secure, high pick pocket area" those criminals love to stand close and watch as people read and then out of reaction place their hands on their valuables to assure themselves that they still have them, simultaneously giving the criminals the location of their valuables.
Antoine's Anti-Theft Essential Gear 👉 bit.ly/AntiTheftTravelEssentials
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I was at the Louvre Museum and I saw some mutes. I decided to give on money.. Big mistake. I opened my purse and gave her $ 5.00. She stumped her feet and was furious, i was totally off guard. She stuck her hand in my purse and took $20.00 and stuck it in her bra and walked away. I was frozen in shock.
Why even travel in places like this avoid these s******* areas with all costs
Viva France!! True democracy!
Great tips, thx!
@mingliu Mindless comment. I have encountered similar incidents in most large cities. Some people don't know because they don't travel much or just smaller towns. The vic tims are re ckless with their stuff, ex phone in back pocket. Ex large Us city where you can't access your phone on public transportation..
In Italy, we were on the subway. An Italian man warned us of the group of teens around us were pickpockets. The teens got very angry at the man. We were so thankful to this man.
@@ChrisJeske-s4v And guaranteed those “teens” don’t have Italian ancestry.
Whenever on the Italy subway, I empty my pockets and hug my backpack in front of me.
In Italy be carefull of papernews seller they are pickpockets also !
In Italy, crooks will even robe u ur balls if u bend a little , police and security men are engaged in such activities too using scanners and other advanced gadgets for security, beware
@@GhostSal they sure don't. They were Romas (gypsies). They do this all over Europe.
I'm parisian, born in paris. I can spot them right away because i take the metro everyday. Sometimes i tell tourists to be very careful. But even if you think you're careful you should even be 10 times more careful in the metro (line1, line 6, touristy lines) and in places like tour eiffel, montmartre... just be extra cautious. Parisians are used to so even if we seem not to be paying attention we unconsciously are always a bit on alert. So please tourists be extra cautious or leave expensive and important stuff at the hotel or in a safe box. Very good video and very informative!!!
Well, in most Metros in large cities (they don't have to be necessarily tourist cities) another often used trick is when someone is sitting near the entrance texting on a phone. There's a guy waiting at door and because he or she is so involved in his/her own world, the doors open, he waits in front of the one on the cellphone, and just as they're closing, he snatches the phone and jumps out.
Thanks and sorry your police force is so dysfunctional, Parisian person.
it is sad to see features of misery somehow attached to the greatness and immortality of French cultural inheritance.
Anyone near me gets the stare. They back off.
Why police do nothing?
@@melianna999 Quite a poor choice of civilizing.
What a very good observation on 4:22 "Group of Women With Large Empty Bags". Large bag or coat in front of them, covering their hands. I had not realized this. Thanks!
They all seem to be Roma ethnicity. That will unfortunately lead to dire discriminations and ethnic profiling.
That's also a thing retail stores look out for (at least in the US, I'm sure other countries too). That's a yellow flag that they may be shoplifters. One such woman took the money out of her bra instead of the bag
@@waryaawariiri1812It really sucks but what can we say when SO MANY of them are like that
@@waryaawariiri1812 I'd rather be called racist and still have my possessions.
But please do not assume that anyone with a large bag or coat in front of them is a pickpocket !
I live in Ecuador and the scam here is that one person tosses fake bird poop on your back or shoulder, then a "helpful" accomplice rushes in to wipe it off--taking your stuff in the process. It happened to my husband twice--the first time, he tossed his backback to the ground in confusion and they made off with it. The second time, he pulled pepper spray from his pocket and the thieves ran off.
I, too, always keep my phone, keys, money and ID in a money belt. If they take my backpack, they're going to get an umbrella, some sunscreen and a hairbrush!
Lleve en un bolsillo una carterista barata rellena de pañuelos de papel sucios con moco y algunas piedrecitas, y una nota con alguna palabrota malsonante.😂 yo llevo un bolsón inflado con bolsas vacías, pero se me ha ocurrido meter también lo que le acabo de decir, con sus pañuelos sucios.
Also spit.I was aware of that and calmly took out a paper kerchief while at the same time clutching my purse visibly closer.They noticed it alright!😅
Fling bird poop at me and they may get it flung back.
@@DAISYROSE22 including the bird?....this bird 🖕
Excellent Broadcasts! Not just Paris! This is a Global reality for Hundreds of Years! 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽🥰🇺🇸
this will never happen in South Korea or Japan, even in Thailand i've travelled a couple of times and i didnt have any problems
It could happen in Vietnam, it happened to us.
This is the video that every visitor to Paris needs to see before they arrive. It should be required viewing!
I am a seasoned traveller who has been pickpocketed IN Europe. I often comment about taking care through out Europe for pickpockets, scammers and thieves and get sooo much hate from commenters who claim that Europe ( especially Paris and Rome ) are so safe and they never felt worried!! Rookie mistake and costly for the niaive new travellers who read these inacurate comments go with a false sense of safety.
ANY city, be aware! No matter if home or away.
All europe
I thought it happened only in Latin America, all fake media make us believe only happens in Third world countries. What a shame. Saludos desde NY,
yes totally agree! les frenchies do an EXCELLENT job & have been a big fan/subscriber!
I too once got pickpocketed while standing in line buying tickets at a railway station. This particular pickpocket was working alone so when one of the bystanders alerted me I ran after him and got back my wallet. It was a relief to get back my money so quickly.
Wow ... very fortunate he didn't resist as If he hadn't done it ... I assume police were watching or nearby ?
It's not the money so much as the credit card(s), drivers license, etc.
Congratulations you were able to overpower the thief.
@@deepbluehue3 They watched hiding behind building.
@vivek. Very ri sky what you did, in Us you would en dn ger yourself literally.
I developed an anti-theft strategy many years ago in Paris, and I have not had any problems since. I don't carry a wallet and don't wear a backpack. My iPhone goes into the front left pocket of my jeans, and I carry a credit and debit card on the right, plus a little bitty change purse with some cash. If someone wants to rob me, they would have to approach from the front and manage to fish something out of the pockets of my rather tight jeans. And of course you need to be wary of people who approach you on the street - they are probably trying to distract you so their mates can grab something.
I took my daughter to Spain for Christmas back in 2019. There were a couple of times where I had to be “rude.” I’m generally polite, but it wasn’t my first time in Spain or Europe. My daughter was initially taken aback by my “rudeness” but I explained why I did it and why it was necessary to protect us.
In Rome a gypsy tried to steal my purse. They started a fight to distract people while a large man/gypsy tried to grab my purse. I karate chopped his arm. The shock on his face - priceless!
A friend traveling in Europe warned me and was pickpocketed - she lost her passport and wallet. So when I traveled, I used a Travelon bag reinforced with metal mesh and a RFID protected wallet. The bag also has locks on the zippers and can be worn as a crossbody. Bag was purchased on QVC.
We live in Ecuador and are fairly well travelled. We've never been pickpocketed but we are wise. Traveling works but Package brand has better hardware both available on Amazon for reasonable prices. Never dig into your purse or wallet on the streets we keep the cash we know we need separately. I sometimes put it in my bra. My husband keeps his wallet on a chain in his front pocket. The chain is because he once lost his wallet in the toilet.
Pacsafe brand
Ditto. We both use Pacsafe waist bags and hang onto them for dear life if we're in crowds. Also have a separate stash of pocket money and ID easy to access. And it's so nice now to have credit cards on the iPhone.
I had a cross body bag, but yobs on a scooter, they simple grabbed it, kept going and dragged me down. A hip injury was the least of my problems. Rome is quite horrid. So many stolen bags emptied and left in the streets. Men making very sexual advances in crowded areas are disgusting.
Rome is 10 times worst than Paris. And the carabinieri simply don't give a damn.
👍🏻👍🏻 Senior Female Solo Traveler. I bought an “anti-theft” crossbody bag for my trip to Europe. It had scan proof sleeves for cards and passport, locking zippers, and wire cable through the straps so they couldn’t be cut. In Paris I didn’t have anything stolen, but was surprised to find cut marks on straps upon return to hotel one day, and I had no idea when it happened. 😳😱 after that I was more watchful for what I “didn’t see coming” as well as threat right in front of me.
I was also targeted in the metro tunnel at Heathrow Airport in London. Two guys were trailing me, I would stop against wall, pretend to be sorting out something, so they had to walk by me. I tried to keep them in front of me, but they kept ‘circling’ around. Upon approaching the elevator up to the terminal a young lady approached (asking for directions ?) and I barked “ NO ! “ and growled at her, she backed off, and so did her partners, looking for new prey. Upstairs I found airport agents and informed them of team working tunnel.
I know when I’m being ‘sharked’, the circling before attack behavior, from the real thing in the islands. 😁👍🏻
Wow that is crazy !! I’m also a solo traveler. I went to Paris and luckily it went well. I was very wary because I had seen many videos like this. Luckily everything went well. But hopefully when I return many times in the future, I’ll continue to not have a problem. Because I have heard some crazy horror stories. I also wear a Crossbody bag, but not an antitheft one so that’s actually a great tip. Thank you for that. I’m gonna find one just to be on the safer side.
Do you mind sharing the brand of the crossbody bag you had in Paris? Thank you for your insight!
Can you share the name of the cross body bad you had ?
That’s because your head was on a swivel, which it should be in a crowd. I have the “spidy” sense as well with something is “off”
Sounds very relaxing
My mother fell for the "nicely dressed helpful man" at a ticket booth and lost her passport and wallet the day she was supposed to leave the country. That certainly made me more aware and proactive. Watching videos like this can add some anxiety when preparing for a trip to Paris (or any large touristy city), but knowing what to look for has made my frequent visits to Paris uneventful, in a good way.
Knowledge is power.
Hi Lesfrenchies. I am going to Paris during the summer when the Olympics are in town. Are you going to do episodes on where to eat, places to visit, places to avoid, etc. I am also interested in transportation to and from venues. I would appreciate any advice and information. We are staying at an Airbnb in the 9th district. Please share your wisdom so my family has a great time and experience. Love your episodes. Doctor Dave 😊😊
that is really horrible. ticket booths seem to be a place where their prey is targetted. My boyfriend was buying a ticket from a ticket machine in London and he put his bag down and a woman took it. I always now make sure I am no one all around me at all times with a few feet, and if they get close I move or tell them to back off. we are being watched all the time.
I think there are a couple of rules:
- if you are a tourist don’t let “other tourists” ask you for anything / directions
- don’t accept strangers that come to help you (get lighter…), if you need help, go yourself ask for help to a policeman, subway worker, etc..
- get a backpack with a zip pocket towards your back. I have one from Samsonite and one from a Spanish company and both have such a pocket for your documents and money. I only have food and unimportant stuff towards the outside.
@@daviddiaz6038the rules for Paris apply for EVERY big city. I was in Paris for a week and I never felt in danger or worried IF you just keep your money and documents on a backpack with a zip pocket towards your back. On every major city with a lot of tourism you’ll have pickpockets (specially in Barcelona…). Just don’t do tourism at night and on lonely streets. Other than that… have FUN!
When I was in the Navy, I always carried Canadian Tire money in a money clip in countries where pickpockets are a problem; it looks real, but it is worthless.
LOL canadian tire money haha
Worthless there but something of a collectible now:).
What is Canadian Tire Money worth?
Canadian Tire Money: Coupon Collecting Worth Thousands ...
To mark the company's 75 years in the retail trade, Canadian Tire issued a special edition anniversary series for all denominations. These notes can fetch anywhere from $300 to $2,000.
Hey, I used to have a pretty good stash of CTM because I always went to a CT gas bar. It added up pretty quickly
Good man you are
I’m not American or Parisian but this video gives me excellent tips for pickpockets.
I’ll watch it again when visiting Paris!
This advice applies to EVERY city in the world. excellent advice it is too.
Not every city, but many. This sort of thing isn't really a huge problem in Quebec City for instance.
In Paris it is rampant and infamous for it, same as Barcelona. I thought I was street-smart and careful, but I got my phone lifted in Paris exiting the metro.
And when was the last time, if ever, you had to take these drastic precautions anywhere in the USA?
I hope you both know how much we all appreciate your videos. They are so informative. Thank you again so much !
We met an Irish Couple on New Years at a *nice* Milan Hotel.
She had, at some point, been a pickpocket. But they were on to bigger grifts. After a few drinks, I caught her taking my phone over cocktails. My Husband rang my phone & it went off in her purse & she freaked out, suddenly accusing me of accusing her of being a thief. She was loud, screaming, waiving her arms. Her Partner was *mad at her* but kept it tamped down.
He was absolutely pissed off that she went for my iPhone when they were working a bigger grift…
What bigger grifts? Damn so crazy
Ireland... That sweet spirit of hospitality...
Irish inventiveness and creativity are really great!
Tinkers.
Kind of strange that you carried on drinking with them when she had told you they were grifters. I would have immediately ended contact. If people tell you what they are, believe them.
@@wraithby Most likely.
I binged all of your videos before my fiancée and I went to Paris for a month and we have not become victim of any scams or pickpockets! Our secret as Americans is to dress like a Parisian and don’t speak any English out loud from the second you walk into the metro station!
MERCI LES FRENCHIES ❤
😂 Bilingual power! That’s smart.
When I lived in South America, I never dressed like a tourist, and I never let my daughters speak to me in English in public. I was only pickpocketed once at a festival and I knew (in hindsight) when and how it happened because it was an odd moment that stuck out to me. I only lost a camera and no money.
how do you dress like a Prisian? and you have to speak French then?
I live in south America and cannot hide my Scandinavian ancestry. I dress generically (jeans, hoodie, ballcap, sneakers) when out and about. Love the people but they stare at me. Lol
I was in Paris for a week. I just used common sense, nothing in my pockets (e.g. money, ID), my cross-body pouch always zipped and in front of me, making sure to know where I was going before so I did not look like a "lost tourist," I placed my pouch under my jacket in the train. I NEVER listened to anyone offering stuff, signatures, or anything, and I never left my cell at the coffee shop table. I had a wonderful vacation with no issues at all. Just bring what you need when you go out, and leave everything else at the hotel.
As an airline Captain imagine my surprise when getting ready to leave New Orleans a passenger leaned into the cockpit and said,”Hey, I don’t know if you care but there’s a pickpocket working your boarding line.” The spotter waived the thief off when I popped out to have the ticket agent call the cops. Calm and cool, they both walked off before the cops could make the scene. I’ll give them props for nerve and inventiveness. Cues are prime target areas for pickpockets.
Thanks for sharing this! Pickpocketing is a problem for any tourist attraction in or out of Paris. I've had an experience myself in another city and they do operate as a team. I kind of knew that something was off, I suspected the two were the look-outs, then me and my friend got approached by a group of young men in their 20s. Fortunately, their plan was foiled since we fought back and shouted in public. No one was hurt.
I’ve been watching your videos since 2021 and THANK GOD! Because of you and your wife’s videos I was well equipped to visit Paris twice in 2022 and it was pure perfection! Aside from all the amazing content on where to stay, eat, shop, site see, transportation, etc. this one is equally important. I caught my pick-pocketer in action on the train from the CDG airport! As I was about to sit down, a kid walked in front of me abruptly stopping me in my tracks, rather than focus on the kid, I immediately I swung my head around and saw a man’s hand in my bag! They were so embarrassed, they quickly walked off the train. Then at the Louvre a woman came up to me with a clipboard and asked me a nonsensical question and I sternly told her I was not interested and she left. Unfortunately my girlfriend got her Metro card
stolen despite me advising her not to put stuff in her outside pockets, only inside pockets. Thank you and Colleen for all of your videos! I can’t wait to visit Paris again!
We were in Paris for under 30 minutes (Gare Du Nord Metro) and were getting on the metro train. A guy stepped in front of me separating me from my wife and daughter. Then he grabbed the carry on bag that I had and tried to move it away from me. I pulled back, felt something touch my left side and twisted to the left. The thief got my wallet out, but I injured his hand and he dropped it on the train. The original guy threw my bag off the train at which point I threw him off the train, retrieved the bag and wallet and got back on the train. It all happened in a few seconds. During this whole process I was not quiet and was looking for an opportunity to land a punch (hockey player).
Anyone who tried to grab my bag in the US would have been greeted by my Springfield.
Well done 😅👏
this was a robbery, terrible.
good on you, got your bag and wallet back.
@@曾幼芬 Thank you. Unfortunately it had a big impact on our two under 16 year old girls. The good thing was that they brought their phones and most other valuables to our room for safe keeping each morning that we were in Paris.
What's a Springfield?
@@SandyCheeks63564 I think a gun..
Please don't forget ATMs. I was robbed at an ATM in Paris by two men acting as a team in just the way you're describing in this video. Thank you for taking the time to post this important public service announcement.
*Pickpockets in Paris, then how about this:* From my experience in Paris: my credit card was copied by the cashier at the Port de Clichy metro station. All ticket machines were covered with paper saying "Out of order," handwritten. The only option to buy tickets was at the cashier. I handed him my card, he dropped it from his side, picked it up... and that was it. Three days later, someone from Amsterdam tried to withdraw money from my account. Fortunately, my bank blocked the transaction and then the card. What can I say... Paris!
I was in Paris for 3 days last May with several family members. and we were targeted on the metro by a group of three young women. One asked my sister-in-law (in English) how to get to a metro stop--and kept asking the same simple questions over and over, pointing up to the metro map. I was suspicious and pointedly stared at her friend who was standing right next to my cousin. When another girl started asking him questions in English I called them out, said they were just trying to distract us. The metro stopped and they hopped out in a hurry, Since we had all valuables in zippered money belts, they wouldn't have gotten anything anyway!
😮so smart of you protecting e,/o
What a marvelous encounter with beautiful Parisian girls!
They’re not Parisians nor French. They mostly come from Romania and "work" in teams of three.
@@jdlg185 That sounds like an accurate description of the girls we encountered.
Good eye!
This is really helpful! I went to Paris last May and thankfully we didn't have an issue. However, we did sit next to a group of girls who ended up getting on the same train as us. Shortly into the ride a Frenchman started yelling at them, what seemed to be, out of nowhere and they ended up getting off on the next stop. Now I know why.
interesting, thanks for sharing
The Frenchman yelled at the women. Were the women French women?
@@jaksongpg I am sure NOT
@@jaksongpg Of course not, they were Gypsies (Roms). Sometimes they dye their hair blonde and try to look like a tourist to fool you.
The way I roll here is, as soon as any stranger, male or female, approaches me with, “Madame, bonjour, excusez-moi…”, I just bluntly say, “No, merci” and keep walking (or doing whatever).
Well, don't. Because this is how people start when they honestly want to ask for directions. Luckily, not everybody acts that way.
@@rj-jl5nv If you are a foreigner in Paris (or wherever), it is unlikely that you will be able to help in any case, so why loose any sleep over it ? Besides, with a population of more than 2 million, there will be no shortage of locals to ask, I would have thought...
Thanks for contributing to a cold world where no one is helping anymore.
So pray that you'll never need any help from others!!
My French cousin was hit by a truck in Paris and laid for hours blooding on the pavement... 😢
Mankind on doom! 😢
When somebody you don't know is overly friendly to you, it's always dodgy.
@@rj-jl5nv Who cares? Her personal safety is way more important than being polite to someone who most likely is a thief.
We are heading to 6 countries, and your advice is GOLD!!
How did you go?
I love this warning. For myself, I am a sitting duck, ripe for the plucking although I have never been a victim because I exude poverty. My wife on the other hand is the Poirot of pickpocket spotters. We were at the Gare du Lyon in the TGV departure area on our way to Bezier. I was busy aimlessly wandering around the Gare du Lyon and upon returning, talked to my wife, I asked her how it was going, she advised me that there were at least 5 pickpockets in the departure area that she had spotted. She had sat through one boarding and saw the way the French compressed the boarding time for a particular train because there are so many departures. This encourages passengers to rush the gate to the quai at boarding time and this, for the pickpocket, is the perfect time to spring into action in this bunched up crowd. People are distracted by a number of things - their tickets, their luggage, their phones, their children, their partner, and their proximity to others and they become careless with their wallets and sac á main. It’s an environment full of potential opportunities for the pickpockets and they do take advantage.
No way for the "government" to relieve that congestion, huh? I mean, it's a way of life that everyone just accepts as normal?
Such great information. And thank you for mentioning a money belt! Rick Steves said the only time he ever was pickpocketed was on a Paris Metro and it was a day that he wasn't wearing his money belt. We wear money belts when we travel abroad. It only contains our passport, emergency cash, bank card, and backup credit card. I actually kept my daily use credit card in a bra wallet that I could very discreetly take in and out when needed. I wore crossbody bag that I had a carabiner latched onto the zipper that hooked on to an outside loop. Just one extra step to get in my bag, but it made me feel more secure. Of course, I also kept my hand on my bag. And we were always keeping our eyes out and nothing in our pcokets. My son rolled his eyes and said "you made it seem like we were going to get pickpocketed every time we were on the train!" I told him, we were just smart!
Carabiner - good idea!
It only takes one time and then you wish you had listened.
When I was a student in Paris, I had a Carte Orange, it was a monthly ticket and could go on the bus, train, metro, RER, once I put my pass through slot in the turnstile and was about to push the turnstile and retrieve my pass from the slot but a guy right in the parallel turnstile abruptly stole my monthly from the slot and jumped his turnstile, taking off with my new monthly pass.
😳 That's terrible!
Omg😮
very interesting tactic. I will watch out for that.
@@beaulieuc8910 The Carte Orange with its separated ticket is a thing of a pretty distant past.
While in the Metro in Greece last year my husband and I were both pick pocketed! You described the "team" that hit us to the T!
Make no mistake... this is run like a business.
so brazen to do it to 2 people
Pay attention people! do not get so engaged in conversation that you are not aware. If in a group , watch each other , sit opposite one another and pay attention , or some in your party should behave as look-outs , watching the surroundings.
good nife and than travel.
I carry an anti-theft slash proof back pack with no visible zippers on the outside. I think that helps too. That, and situational awareness, which is even increased by sound advice like you are so generously offering here. Thanks!❤
Thanks you two! Heck, it's just been September since we were in Paris and this video got us thinking how soon will we come back! My wife and I were walking on the south side of Notre Dame a few years ago when suddenly a Chinese tour guide who was talking to a big group of Chinese people turned to us and said, " Watch out! That person with the survey is going to take your bag!" It was amazing how he saw it while he was busy with his group. The survey person quickly scurried away.
Great video, great advice - I agree with it all.
2 extras - The 'helper' at the metro ticket machine can also be a spotter, they will be on an open conference call through their air pods passing on who has what/where. Also, a distractor at the top of stairs blocking, causing a queue while the thieves join at the bottom in a train station - very effective.
This advice is good for Rome too.
my friend had that at Leytonstone tube station, they worked in 3s, one spotter outside the, the other in the middle and the one taking the phone. My friend only has cheap pay as you go phones. he gave them one to avoid being knived, and I think the thief was disappointed phone was so rubbish. my friend had a spare phone at the time and called the police, thieves forget person may hae 2 phones, and even a crappy one can all police. i carry a dummy smart phone
The general idea is don't accept "spontaneous" help.
If you need some help pick the person yourself like the person who just bought a ticket right before you.
As other people have said French people are quite reserved and the general rule in metro is mind your own business, but if you ask for help many people would actually try to help you.
Also another "rule" is people tend to stand quite distant so anyone trying to get too close is a sign.
Contrary to popular belief, "sardine packed" metros are not that dangerous. Pickpocket can't move around, can't choose target and if they get caught they have nowhere to go.
There's the grab-and-run-away risk but at those times platform tends to be crowded too so that would be risky for them.
Especially Rome
Good advice.. 😊
Another useful tip for women is if you have a handbag with a flap,ALWAYS put the flap towards your body so it's more difficult to open! Outside ones are an easy target to uplift by pickpockets!
Learned this the hard way. Will never again carry a bag that opens this way. Zippers only.
Pickpocketed on Metro by 4 young girls. As I was getting into. train, hey asked me if I spoke English and as i turned my head one girl behind me had my phone and wallet. A very nice French women saw this and told girls to put it back. They did and quickly got off train before doors closed.
Had them let me use their Food Discount Card. I was buy Candy $$$ for lady's they were Smiling Big Time Too Be Nice..
@@jimshoe402 BShit we don’t use food cards in France!
Where were the pickpockets from?
@@jaksongpgmy guess they come from eastern Europe. No idea coz I’m in Australia the safe country!
@@jaksongpg Norway, they all come from there
I saw this video one month ago before going to Paris and I thank you very much !! 🙏🙏 .... Just arrived in Paris, after 30 seconds I had been waiting on Montmartre steps, with all the bags with me, I was approached by a young woman who pretended to present herself deaf-mute, with a hardback folder with a presumed petition for that kind of people.
She put the folder quite aggressively under my nose, exactly the tactic you showed in this or in the other video.
Despite being aware, it takes some seconds before I realized well the situation, because they're trained in showing off nice and gentle.
Anyway I made her sign to back off and go away .....she even complained about it
So glad that 5 minutes later I saw a group of policemen who circled the girls, with one of them pulling the folder away quite rudely from her hands.
I was happy of this deed.
I approached them, and I thanked the officiers, and I stared the woman, saying some ironic and angry words.
She clearly recognised me, and it's incredible their total lack of empathy. She had not emotional no physical reaction.
They're like sharks or demons
We had a wonderful visit to Paris. Many thanks to Les Frenchies for their informative videos. We watched a number of the videos prior to our arrival. Tips for navigating the metro, restaurant etiquette, and awareness of pickpockets, were most helpful. Merçi beaucoup!
Watched this wideo on the day we arrived in Pais. Got it done to me 2 days later.
We were a group of 4.
A group of 6 women and one man got in between the women in our group and myself and brother in law.
2 off them blocked up one side of the train entrance and stood their ground while the other 5 blocked the other side and we got squashed in between them and the closing doors, there was a lot of shouting and pushing with the train leaving the station. Within 30 seconds I had lost about $250 in cash before I noticed them in my bag. Didn’t loose any credit cards.
This was a well rehearsed and professional team targeting one person.
They all jumped off at the next station.
what would you have done differently? this was getting on the train or metro? they were already on and you had to pass through them to board?
@@Dguier. It was on the Metro , it was as we were boarding, they pushed in between the 2 women in our group and they separated myself and my brother in law.
I believe I was the target when we all boarded.
I feel the only things too have avoided this was not to get separated from my group. Be more assertive when boarding the metro. I was probably too courteous and letting them on first as they were mostly young women. And be more aware what was going on around me and what was going on. Looking back on it as soon as it was too tight to get in the train. We should have not got on and waited till the next one in 6 minutes time. But my wife and sister were already on the train and we didn’t want to get separated in a city that we didn’t know.
We are travellers from Australia . Very different city from what we are used to.
But lesson learnt and was a lot more vigilant when we used the Metro while we were in Paris.
Why weren’t you more prepared especially after watching the video?
OBVIOUSLY this video was watched after the crime!
@@davidrobert1407 Better in these situations not to speak one word of English (or any other foreign language).
Before traveling I sew velcro on my inside suit or coat pockets. This can be done with pockets having zippers too. Very tough for a pick pocket to undo the velcro on an inside pocket since stealth and quickness is their advantage. I've had some pick pocket attempts foiled.
Very imaginative
I just started binge watching your videos. Loving it. Thank you for sharing. I am Dutch and living in Amsterdam, so just a mere 4 hours train ride. Last time I visited Paris is 10 years ago. Your tips and the dos & dons are more than welcome. Merci.
Very informative video. Thank you! Our last trip to Paris we were walking up the steps at Pont Neuf after a boat ride and a pregnant woman put her hand in my husbands pocket. He grabbed her hand straight away and yelled out pickpocket. She ran but at the top of the stairs was another of her "colleagues" and at the bottom of the steps another who was waiting for her. They were dressed nicely and unassuming. Be diligent no matter what city.
I remember when I was pickpocketed for first time. They explained it just the way it is. I entered in metro very fast, i was talking with friend, i did not keep an eye on my belonging, and just when I was geting out i noticed that I do not have my wallet, I was typical victim of pickpokets! Amazing how they broke down the steps of them!
My husband and I are Latinos (he's Mexican, and I'm Colombian). When we visited Paris last year, we were more than prepared to deal with pickpocketers. We're used to seeing suspicious people and avoiding situations like those. I bought an anti-theft backpack from Amazon for this trip, which I highly recommend. I would put my money in the backpack, and ou important documents and Navigo cards in my fanny pack, which I would wear under my coat (we visited during early spring, so it was still a bit chilly). It also helped that I speak French.
Thanks for the tips.
Not Paris but in Rome.. I stopped a thief while he was trying to steal out of a purse. This was a group of ladies and a Tour Guide was explaining the Coliseum history.
They were in a semi circle facing the tour guide. . The thief was going person to person., purse to purse. I confronted him, yelled loudly and chased him down and took a photo and left him there.
The Tour operator got on his walkie talkie and notified all the other Tour Guides who are the same intercom wave length. He then called the cops. I showed them the photo. They found him about 200 yards away pulling the same scam. I identified the guy and off he went to jail.
Who was he.? . A Gypsy and known thief. Also caught was his partner who gets the hand off of the stolen goods.
The only scam I fell for in Paris was an American student saying the need $5 for some kind of pass at the airport. When I figured it out was when I was leaving Paris and he was in the same spot doing the same thing.
His name was Rhyss (you don't forget these things) and from a wealthy family in the San Francisco area. He was a UC Berkeley student. You never know.
the EU can help by forcing young pickpockets into easy jobs.
@@SamSitar Pickpockets have a job. Self employed, no set hours, no taxes and no boss.
@SamSitar : Mostly of them don't like to work.
@@jeffhildreth9244I’m pretty sure they do have bosses, since from everything I’ve heard, there are pickpocketing “rings”. I doubt they keep whatever they can steal.
They like to work; all they need to know is where you and your wallet are so they can get started!
One of the things I do is go into a bank during banking hours to use an ATM; In the UK there is usually a bank employee near a `front desk` and it would be highly problematic for pickpockets in such circumstances.
I have visited all of the typical European pickpocket cities (Rome, London, Paris, Barcelona, Prague, etc.). Only once has someone attempted, and failed terribly, to pick my pocket (on a city bus in Rome). My friend, however, had her phone stolen out of her hands taking pictures at Montmartre. We’re actually traveling to Paris (and all around France 🇫🇷) in about three weeks, so just checking out your page to get reacquainted with Paris (specifically the public transportation).
I want to thank you so much for this video ❤️
On 19 December this year, we travelled to Paris for a day trip during our London holiday. Already at the Gare du Nord, people tried to accost us in the station concourse in order to steal from us.
However, in the metro to Notre Dame, a pickpocket almost succeeded when she already had her hand in my mum's handbag, using a method mentioned in your video.
Luckily, I noticed this straight away, so I was able to scare the person off even when I was tired.
Thanks to your video, I was very well prepared for such situations in Paris 👌
Super informative video with plenty of helpful tips. Thanks, Antoine & Colleen!! We've been to Paris several times and feel safer in Europe than we do in larger U.S. cities. The closest we came to any pickpocketing was at Sacre Coeur, when a group of young men "selling" rings tried to force one on my finger. When I protested, they raised a stink, but my husband raised a larger stink and they backed off. Thankfully hubby had his wallet in an inside jacket pocket and I kept a grip on my purse, so nothing was stolen. But otherwise, we enjoy Paris and feel safe.
Your visiting the wrong side of the US. I travel the world and mostly trust but am vigilant.
Forewarned is forearmed! Outstanding video, just like every one of your others. Merci beaucoup!!!
Thank you! 😃
I just came from Paris last month. Everything went smooth until our last day when we went to visit Sacre Coeur. About to ride the metro on our way back when suddenly my navigo pass didn’t work even though there’s still some load in it. Had to go thru customer service to have it checked and was instructed to go thru the double doors instead of the turnstile. Lo and behold, I got pickpocketed and lost my phone in a matter of minutes. Police are no help at all, so don’t even try asking for help.
Lost my phone to a pickpocket just glad is was a cheap one. Just rack it up to experience and know better next time. Most of the time with those cards is it detects some type of fraud like your letting someone else in on your card. First time I used it i double swiped it and it locked me out.
Exactly. POLICE ARE USELESS. So if you see any of those scammers try to impersonate a police officer, it's a huge cluer and you should laugh in their face because even when one gets robbed and alerts the real police, those police are USELESS anyway!
Interesting world we live in./ 300 years ago boys stealing piece of bread in England end up in Australia
as convict.
When i heard phrase "Paris is a safe place" i felt like i was just pick pocketed. Such genuine level of honesty in this sentence. Bien essayé quand même.
I ordered a pair of special 'pickpocket proof' shorts before I went to Europe. They have outer and inner security pockets (with zippers). Basically pockets within pockets! I've been able to carry my Passport and thousands of dollars in cash with me this way, distributed over several inner pockets. I have never been pickpocketed, but on several occasions felt hands on me trying! They all failed, the bastards! These shorts were the best investment ever!
👍
A friend of mine always wears those shorts on his trips to Paris. 🙂
Lol
Why would you go around with 1000s of dollars in France? 😂
@@nordoc3156 Because my credit is completely shot, and I can't use 'plastic'! So I travel with cash, and guard it with my life! Sucks, but that's all I can do. I stay under the limit the government allows when travelling abroad.
While sight-seeing etc just have a photocopy of your passport or identity card. So long as it's legible it's accepted in case of a police control. Another great video!
Great post I was pick pocketed in the Gard du Nord last year probably my 12 th visit. It can happen to anyone and in a flash. It can ruin your holiday
yes, it certainly can
It can, I got pick-pocketed for $13 souvenir when I was in Venice decades ago. I used to live in China and I'd have been going through my pockets every time that I was on a bus. One of the public services that I was providing was a decoy to pickpockets. They never got anything off me because my stuff was always secured in a pocket they couldn't get to.
That being said, these sorts of criminals do a vary a bit depending upon where you are, when one of my friends got pick pocketed, we found her wallet and all the cards sitting on the curb for us to find after lunch. They took all the cash and had tried all the cards at one of the local ATMs from what I remember.
We stayed in a hotel on Rue Claire. There was a post office at the end of the street. We got up very early every morning & got our cash out. Very very few people were up that early. We also wore money belts ‘inside’ our pants. We were in Paris for 3 weeks & never had a problem. One proverb I always use when traveling: Don’t leave your common sense at home.
Just subscribed to your channel. As a Paris resident, may I offer one more suggestion for avoiding being pickpocketed. I always wear a jacket with an inside zippered pocket and keep my wallet and Navigo there. Larger items are in a small backpack that I hold in front of me when on the metro or buses, never worn on my back. Thanks for your excellent videos and tips on Paris.
Welcome to the channel. Thank you.
I was a victim of pickpocket thieves once. My handbag was leather, shallow and open & I just came out of a bank. As I was on an escalator going up, a young man (teen or early 20’s) holding a toddler girl was rushing by me, stepping on escalator’s steps as if in a great hurry. Following him was a young boy, aged maybe 11 or 12, also in a rush as if they were in an emergency. The young man bumped against me as he passed me by on the escalator & I was very annoyed. 10 or 5 minutes later, I tried to buy something & found my wallet gone, with credit cards, driver’s license, etc. I immediately knew it was on the escalator that my wallet was taken because I had my wallet when I was in the bank. The young man holding the toddler and the boy - they didn’t look like thieves!
How do thieves look like?!!
A while ago when I was naive and unaware I came within an inch of losing my wallet that was in my left front pocket. This was on the metro line 12 headed toward place des abbesses. Suddenly I felt a tickle and looked down to my left and saw a little man’s hand holding the wallet half way out of my pants. I stared him down and he acted like it was just a mistake. Some bad words in French slipped out of my mouth. After that awakening I always guard my personal belongings like they’re in a vault.
Another excellent video! I have been to Paris about 20 times but didn't know about the "women with large empty bags" gambit. I was picked once at Montparnasse on an early trip but luckily he only got a small pouch with extra camera batteries. There was a second attempt a few years ago at Odeon Metro station but I caught the guy with his fingers on my crossbody bag zipper -- he was slowed down by the Travelon zipper clips. I try to always stay aware, especially after the last attempt! Thanks for keeping us smart!
Outstanding video! This is the best best video on pickpocketing that I've ever seen, and I've seen a lot of them. I was in Paris last year and I'm going to Spain this year. I think this video applies to wherever you're traveling, not just Paris. I'm sure the pickpockets in Spain pull the same crap that they do in Paris.
Thank you so much!!
Thank you so much for making this Video. Several years ago i was picked pocket in subway going to Paris ORLY Airport. We are American. You saved a lot of tourist people headaches and problems. We appreciate you !!
Thank you. It's important to know.
a) When I was pickpocketed on the metro, the method was that one of them knelt down on the floor and started adjusting my pant cuffs. While I was distracted and confused, one of the others slipped my wallet out of my pocket so smoothly I didn't even feel it. (These days when I travel, I always keep everything important in a pouch under my shirt rather than in a pocket.)
b) You say never use an ATM alone. But what is your advice for solo travelers?
I would go inside a bank during business hours.
thanks for sharing
About ATaM.
Just don't use them in tourist areas.
Or have other non-sketchy people like other tourists or normal looking people minding their own business.
I keep a fake wallet in my pocket, it's full of gy prn. When thieves steal it they will enjoy it. 😅
Find a bank that has an indoor ATM.
I wish I’ve known this before I went there in 2019 I was a victim in the Metro. Thank you for sharing!♥️
I have been in JAPAN one full year, never had a problem like this.
Japan is civilised.
@@Ben-hg3bzCorrect. The Japanese, who are much more ordered in their public spaces, will have none of this. If you happen to drop your wallet in Japan, it will be quickly returned to you with the retreiver actually apologizing and bowing. This sort of response is unimaginable in today's Europe.
I'm Japanese and throughout this video, I'm preparing not to be stolen in foreign countries😂
Sadly, I heard some foreigners steal, so more Japanese become more careful nowadays. For example, I heard some or many JDM cars and those parts even are stolen because it'll be sold well overseas.
On God, Japan’s safety standard is UNREAL
yes, I wish the all world would be safe and clean like that!@@footybit
My father-in-law was pick pocketed TWICE last year while visiting Paris, I now have ZERO desire to visit, we can spend our $$$ in just as beautiful places elsewhere. None the less your videos are very helpful and informative, so I am grateful for them.
always has a life long dream to visit Paris, but now with everything going on, the crime, the Marxist government, ...hard pass. So many other great places to visit in the world.
Your video saved us from being scammed buying our Navigo cards! We waved him off and told him to get lost. Thank you!
Great advice - and equally applicable to Rome and London!
So lovely your mom continues to keep you warm with the purple scarf. I like the red scarf too.
My Parisian friends tell me they don’t carry purses - only totes - when they know they’ll be taking the Metro. Totes are harder to access for pickpockets - and the bags signal to the thieves that they are local, not tourists. Plus, there is a utilitarian reason for caring totes: most of my friends in Paris say they are stopping off at the grocery store on the way home from work, or doing a little shopping, so they like to have a larger bag to store these things.
What is a Tote please?
@@Ponkelina Google "tote bag". It's a shopping fabric bag usually sold (or offered as a gift if your purchases reach a certain amount) by stores.
@@PonkelinaCity dwellers carry totes. Couldn't survive in NYC without them. Folks who live in areas that are are car centered, have little use for totes.
@@Ponkelina - A tote is a larger bag for carrying things you pick up from shops or markets. Often my Parisian friends carry totes with museum logos, for example (more stylish than carrying a plain tote). Because they’re deeper than most purses, they are harder for pickpockets to access. Many are made of cotton, but you can get leather or faux leather totes, too!
I also bought some pickpocket-proof slacks. Not as flexible as I'd like, but double zip pockets and are very effective!
Great advice for any big city.
Merci!
Your channel is an amazing source of information. My wife and I are going to France at the end of June for about 2 and a half weeks. We feel quite confident with your advice to have a good time without any "disturbances."
Thank you for your work. It is greatly appreciated.
always make sure there are no people around you with in a few feet
Thank you for another great video; my teen and I are coming to Paris in the fall and your videos are so helpful in preparing for it; my teen is at that age where they feel invincible so it’s great that they can watch your videos and learn
My brother was with his daughters, was robbed in Paris Metro, despite being on guard and hes a seasoned traveller.
He was robbed in the Metro, while the train was moving, by some teenage girls.
Luckily for him, 2 paincloth policeman and woman were on the job in the same coach, they were caught. And he had to accompany them to lodge a Police report.
Nice job on this video guys! Pickpockets are not always what you would think they are. This is good info. Thank you.
I grew up in NYC and have traveled a lot, so most of this is basic street smarts, situational awareness, etc. that will be useful anywhere. That said, thieves and scammers do have a different "game" depending on the part of the world you're in. I will definitely remember this the next time I'm in Europe.
🙂❤️👍
On a trip to Germany with my choir back in the early 90’s, I wore a money/passport pouch under my shirt, having been warned about pickpockets. The director of our choir, who was actually from Germany, thought I was being a bit silly and overly cautious. But halfway through the 2-week trip, while we were all enjoying an open-air market in Mainz, it was him who had his wallet picked from his easy-target back pocket.
😂
Thank you for your tips. I had no trouble in Paris, but I was pickpocketed in Barcelona on the Ramblas. I had done everything wrong with my packpack, so it was my own fault. But I learned a lesson!!
Every person I know who's ever visited Barcelona got pickpocketed. I'm in no hurry to go there.
I wasnt robbed there :D
But I had all my things in a small bag thats made in spain and very hard to open if you dont know how. Even the security in one of the places I visited asked me to open it cause they couldnt. I know pickpocketers also can grab the bag, so I was extra carefull with that too, always having it crossed over my body and not on the shoulder.
So a good advice is to have a good quality bag, hard to steal from
And not to engage in conversations with strangers.
I recommand visiting Barcelona, just be carefull and it can be an amazing trip
Also? One thing to note: if you've been pickpocketed and had your passport or foreign residency visas stolen, you need to immediately go to a police station to file a report as you'll need that police eport to have your travel documents replaced.
Or just don't visit Paris. 😅
Thank you so much for the videos. We just returned from Europe, and stayed in multiple cities, and spent the most time in Paris. From the " surveyors " under the Eiffel towers, to the less obvious pick pocketers that we noticed at the Metro ticket stations areas and in Metro trains, all of the tips really helped!! We had everything including wallets + passports in front body secured crossbody bag / Purse, so we did not fell victims. Thank you!!
Thanks for this helpful tips, I will make a mental note. God bless you both for sharing this information. Be safe!❤❤
Thanks again for this information, I watched all of your videos. I am coming in March and boy I learn so much from both of you!!
Bon voyage! I how you've learned enough to relax and enjoy (while knowing what to recognize when it's time to be aware).
June, for us 🙂
The problem with trying to buy your Metro ticket at the ticket counter is sometimes the RATP staff doesn’t want to help by telling you to buy it at the ticket machine. The customer service in Paris, in general, is awful compared to other countries even after greeting them with a Bonjour or Bonsoir and being able to speak intermediate level of French with them. I feel that those tourists who can only say Bonjour/Bonsoir and switch into English immediately can get better customer service because they are obviously tourists in need of more assistance than tourists who can speak and understand intermediate level of French but are not fully fluent. That’s when the pickpockets would strike is when you are buying your ticket at the machine.
I have had very good experience with Paris Metro booth personnel.
Haha, been to Paris once, awful place when you don't speak their language. They don't deserve any of my money, never.
@@TheKucapaca And if I come to your country will you speak my language. Try to learn some words before travelling and use google for translation when you need help from people abroad who don't have to speak your language
What bothers me most is that because of those scumbags, tourists are suspicious of people who genuinely want to help. I manage a wine shop in Nice on the Côte d'Azur and when I am off work and cross path with tourists that are obviously looking for directions I will cross the street to offer my help because even if I have nothing to gain for it, I want to make my contribution to a pleasant stay, I want them to come back home saying that Nice is a beautiful and friendly place.
Toulouse is awesome as well
Yes but i can't blame them. In Paris, i offered to help some tourists who seemed to be lost quite a few times but they looked nervous but well i cant blame them, unfortunately there are so many stealers and people with bad intentions.
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Unfortunately the world requires more suspicion than it should need be! Thank you for being kind! I was in Nice for two days in January, thoroughly enjoyed your beautiful city and I will be back!
Fair point
All of these are great advise, thank you. Paris is like any major big city, be aware of your surroundings.
exactly!
Zipped isnt an obstacle they just unzip it.
My advice is, before you leave your accomodation decide what you need for that day. Put anything else in the safe.
Take a small purse and put only enough money for a coffee etc some very small change. You can use this infront of people. If pressured to give money you can give a few coins from your safe purse.
Put your passport/id some larger notes or cashcard limited amount to withdraw. Keep this under your clothing i keep it on my belly under my vest etc.
Never take this out in public. If you need it go somewhere like a toilet, take out what you want.
Remember need help, not sure where to go? Head into the most expensive looking hotel and ask the receptionist for help.
Safe travels
We were in Paris and witnessed an incident occur while a woman was getting off the train. They seem to prefer “transitions” (when folks are busy getting on/off public transportation, etc.). Then, we saw a group of boys matching a similar profile to what you mentioned, but my husband yelled across the tracks and they fled the scene and were unable to target their next victim who was standing a few feet away. Great job explaining. It didn’t happen to us because we were vigilant, but this advice is good anytime you are out sight seeing in any city.
Distraction is the key ingredient
As a senior solo traveler I had a wonderful shop keeper in Florence Italy who actually went with me to the ATM to retrieve money for a leather jacket I was buying. (cash got a better deal) As I was leaving his shop, he handed me my crossbody bag and put it against my chest. He patted it and said "please wear this in front always". The square in Florence is rife with pickpockets. Some of our guides even pointed them out.
Every major city in Italy are infested with them.
15 years ago, while riding that very subway in that very station, a man pretended to lose his balance fall, and grab my leg, sticking his hand into my side pocket. There was nothing in that pocket, but it was obvious what he was trying to do, I screamed “this man is trying to steal from me !” Everyone on that train car turn their heads around and started staring and shaking their heads in shame for their country. He quietly looked down at the ground, and took a few steps away. The doors open, and he exited. That was my exit as well. I walked behind him. He then stopped and stood at the empty train station, staring at the tracks on the ledge. I stood behind him with his back, turn towards me. We were the only ones left at the station. He was right on the ledge, and I was angry enough to consider giving him a 300 kick down into the tracks. What would’ve happened if I had done that? Maybe he wouldn’t be pickpocketing anymore?
Thank you for sharing this information! I also keep my passport in a secure location at the hotel and bring only one ID and bank card and leave the rest also at the hotel/ Airbnb as backup!
9:35 _"Using ATM machines…"_
Well, these days you can pay almost everywhere in Europe with your smartphone or smartwatch.
At least, Germany is still way behind and most German shops prefer cash. But Smart-Device payments are getting more popular, every year. I'm not sure how that works in France.
I always try to avoid cash, whenever possible. I do bring cash, of course… just in case…
In some countries in Eastern Europe, where they don't have the Euro, it helps to not withdrawal a lot of foreign currency. I use pay wireless, with either my bank card, or Apple Watch.
Lucky for me that I only experienced it once, that I was aware of, on the stairs down to the subway. I knew about the pickpockets prior to my trip to Paris and purchased Pacsafe bags for the trip. I brought along a decoy sling to distract the pickpockets if I ever encounter one but sure enough, the team of 2 went for the decoy. On my way down the stairs to the subway, I heard my zipper opening sound on the decoy bag, Pacsafe bags are cut proof, double locked, and tamper proof, I turned around and saw 2 young guys froze in place with sunglasses on both of them. I gave them a dirty look eyes forward and when I turned back again, the two guys were gone.
Thank you. Very helpful advice for any heavily populated city.
Wow. Thank you! The subway distraction one occurred to my husband and granddaughter a couple of years back; My husband - from Lima Peru - was wise to their tricks and made an even bigger fuss and they backed off. Terrifying. My granddaughter shutters at the memory.
Causing a scene is the best way to get rid of them.
excellent
Some places have signs with remarks like "caution: be secure, high pick pocket area" those criminals love to stand close and watch as people read and then out of reaction place their hands on their valuables to assure themselves that they still have them, simultaneously giving the criminals the location of their valuables.
Thank you. It works that way also in Madrid and Barcelona.