Streets, markets and crowds.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH BEFORE TRAVELLING
Where you are going and how Whether the area is one you know What time you will be there
WHY TIME MATTERS
Risk varies substantially by hour in most places.
WHAT TO AVOID WHERE POSSIBLE
Deserted routes Poorly lit areas after dark Walking alone late Shortcuts through unfamiliar areas
WHAT TO PREFER
Routes with people and activity Main roads over quiet ones Well-lit areas
WHY BUSY ROUTES
Witnesses are a deterrent.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT VALUABLES
Keep them out of sight.
WHAT ATTRACTS ATTENTION
Phones held in hand Jewellery Bags worn loosely Visible cash
WHAT TO CARRY
Only what you need.
WHAT TO KEEP SEPARATE
Some money kept apart from your main wallet.
WHY
It provides something to hand over, and a means home.
WHAT TO DO IN CROWDS
Keep bags in front and closed Be aware of pressure and jostling Know where you are relative to exits
WHY JOSTLING MATTERS
It is the standard method of pickpocketing.
WHAT TO DO IF FOLLOWED
Change direction Cross the road Enter a populated place Call someone and speak
WHAT NOT TO DO
Go home.
WHY
It reveals where you live.
WHAT TO DO IF CONFRONTED
Comply with demands for property.
