Pickpocketing

As you all are probably already aware, Rome as well as the rest of Italy has been labeled as one of the worst places for pickpocketers. Although crime in Rome has relatively decreased over the years, pickpocketing still seems to be extremely prominent. While I didn't have any problems with it in the four months I was in Rome, it is still something that everyone should take precautions to avoid.

The simplest way to avoid being a victim of a pickpocketer is to always be aware of your surroundings and to never get distracted. Gypsys and children are most often the people who steal the most and they will go to any means to get you distracted while another one steals your wallet. Signs that you may be in an unsafe situation could be things like people loudly arguing on a bus or metro train. Tourists will be so distracted by the use of the beautiful language that they'll be an easy target. Be aware when people come up to you and persistantly ask you for money or question you about something else. This is usually done to catch your attention while another gypsy or child steals whatever they can get their hands on. Also, the buses and metro buses in Italy are always packed. In Italy, there is alway room for one more Italian on a bus. Because of this, people will literally be shoulder to shoulder with you, making tourists extremely uncomfortable. Pickpocketers will take advantage of your distraction of the sweaty man pressed up against you and will discretely steal your wallet or slice the bottom of your purse. While on a crowded bus, always have your hand on the front pocket your wallet is in (never put your wallet in your back pocket) and always be aware of where your purse is and guard it with your hands. Pickpocketers won't come near someone who is prepared and doesn't appear gullible.

To avoid drive-by purse snatches, women should always carry a purse that can be thrown across your body. A really good website that I found that has other good recomendations like this is posted below. It lists areas in Rome that are more prone to pickpocketing as well as other things you can do to prevent it.

http://www.corporatetravelsafety.com/safety-tips/pickpocket-scams-reported-in-rome-italy