How to AVOID Getting ROBBED by PICKPOCKETS

Summary

This video script offers essential tips for avoiding pickpockets in Paris, highlighting the importance of awareness and vigilance. It describes the roles of pickpocket team members, including the spotter, distractor, thief, and enforcer, and advises on recognizing suspicious behaviors. The script also suggests safety measures such as keeping belongings zipped and in front, using local guides, and avoiding engaging with strangers offering unsolicited help. It reassures viewers that with the right knowledge, they can enjoy Paris safely.

Takeaways

• 🕵️‍♂️ Be aware of pickpockets operating in teams with specific roles such as spotters, distractors, and enforcers.
• 👀 Look out for the spotter who scans the crowd for easy targets, often standing alone or in pairs.
• 🛍️ Keep your belongings secure and make sure your bags are zipped to appear as a difficult target for pickpockets.
• 🤹‍♂️ Be cautious of the distractor who uses various tactics to divert your attention while the thief operates.
• 💼 The enforcer's role is to prevent you from pursuing the thief, often by being aggressive or blocking your path.
• 🌆 Stay vigilant in tourist-heavy areas like the Eiffel Tower, metro stations, and popular attractions.
• 👜 Be wary of groups with empty bags or coats that could be used to conceal pickpocketing activities.
• 📚 Avoid engaging with individuals causing a scene or acting erratically, as it may be a distraction tactic.
• 👶 Be cautious even with children and teens, who may be part of pickpocketing rings and can be aggressive.
• 👮‍♂️ Be skeptical of anyone impersonating officials or police officers, especially near ATMs or tourist spots.
• 💼 Never use an ATM alone, and avoid those near major attractions to prevent theft or robbery.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the video script?

The main purpose of the video script is to educate viewers on how to identify and avoid pickpockets in Paris, by explaining the tactics they use and providing tips on staying safe.

What is the first thing the speaker does when entering a metro station or a high tourist area?

The first thing the speaker does is look for the spotter or observer, who is part of a pickpocket team and is responsible for identifying easy targets.

What are some characteristics of a spotter or observer in a pickpocket team?

A spotter or observer usually stands alone or in pairs, scanning the crowd for people with luggage, who seem uncertain, engaged in conversation, or tourists who may have valuable items.

Why is it important to be aware of one's belongings and surroundings in areas with high tourist traffic?

Being aware of one's belongings and surroundings helps deter pickpockets, as they tend to target individuals who appear distracted or careless with their possessions.

What is the role of the distractor in a pickpocket team?

The distractor's role is to divert the victim's attention through various means such as being overly friendly, acting erratically, or even being slightly aggressive.

How does the thief in a pickpocket team operate?

The thief operates by taking advantage of the distraction caused by the distractor to quickly steal the victim's belongings without being noticed.

What is the enforcer's role in a pickpocket team?

The enforcer's role is to prevent the victim from pursuing the thief by blocking their path or acting aggressively, making it seem like the victim is the one causing trouble.

Why should tourists be particularly cautious around the Eiffel Tower and other major tourist attractions?

Tourists should be cautious around these areas because pickpockets often target places with high tourist traffic, where they see opportunities to steal from distracted visitors.

What should one do if they notice someone acting suspiciously near an ATM machine?

One should never use an ATM alone in tourist-heavy areas, always have someone watch their back, and preferably use ATMs away from major attractions and in less crowded areas.

How can pickpockets use clipboards to their advantage?

Pickpockets can use clipboards to hide their hands while pretending to ask for signatures on a survey, allowing them to reach into bags or pockets without being noticed.

What should a person do if they suspect someone is impersonating a police officer?

If someone suspects an impersonation, they should make a scene, draw attention to themselves, and report the incident, as impersonating a police officer is a serious crime in France.

What personal safety measures does the speaker recommend for visitors in Paris?

The speaker recommends wearing a sling or money belt, keeping bags zipped and in front of the body, not keeping valuables in pants pockets, and being vigilant in crowded areas.

Outlines

00:00

🕵️‍♂️ Identifying Pickpocket Behaviors in Paris

The first paragraph discusses the commonality of pickpocket encounters in Paris and emphasizes the importance of recognizing their behavior rather than appearance. The video aims to educate viewers on how to spot potential pickpockets, particularly the 'spotter' or 'observer' who searches for easy targets in crowded areas. It advises viewers to be vigilant, especially in tourist-heavy locations, and to secure their belongings to deter thieves. The paragraph also describes the roles within a pickpocket team, including the distractor, the thief, and the enforcer, and advises on how to avoid becoming a victim.

05:01

🛡️ Staying Alert to Avoid Pickpockets

This paragraph focuses on the tactics used by pickpockets to distract and steal from tourists in Paris. It highlights the importance of not getting involved in commotions or scenes that may be staged to divert attention. The speaker shares personal experiences of pickpocketing attempts, including incidents at the metro, restaurants, and tourist spots. It advises viewers to be aware of their surroundings and to avoid sitting near individuals whose hands are not visible. The paragraph also mentions the use of clipboards as a cover for pickpocketing and warns against engaging with individuals soliciting signatures or donations.

10:02

⚠️ Cautionary Tales of Pickpocketing in Paris

The third paragraph provides further insights into the experiences of the narrator with pickpockets in Paris, including an encounter with an individual impersonating a metro employee and the danger of using ATMs near tourist attractions. It advises viewers to seek help from official sources and to be wary of individuals offering unsolicited assistance. The paragraph also warns against engaging with people claiming to be police officers and instructs viewers to create a scene if they suspect an impersonation. It concludes with general advice on personal safety and the use of security gear while in Paris, and encourages viewers to watch another video on the unspoken rules for tourists.

Keywords

💡Pickpockets

Pickpockets are individuals who engage in the act of theft by stealthily taking items, typically from a person's pockets or bags without their knowledge. In the video's context, they are the main subject, with the script discussing various encounters and strategies to avoid becoming a victim. The video aims to educate viewers on identifying and dealing with pickpockets in Paris.

💡Misinformation

Misinformation refers to false or inaccurate information that is spread, often unintentionally. In the script, it is mentioned that there is a lot of misinformation about what pickpockets look like and how they operate, which the video seeks to clarify to help viewers stay safe.

💡Spotter or Observer

A spotter or observer is a member of a pickpocket team whose role is to identify potential targets. The script describes how they look for easy targets, such as tourists with luggage or those who seem distracted, and then signal to other team members when a suitable target is found.

💡Distractor

A distractor is a person who diverts attention away from an intended action or object, often as part of a team effort in a crime. In the video, the distractor's role is to engage the victim in a way that allows the thief to operate unnoticed, using tactics such as overly friendly behavior or creating a commotion.

💡Thief

A thief is someone who steals property without the owner's consent. In the context of the video, the thief is the individual who takes advantage of the distraction to steal from the victim. The script explains how this happens quickly and often goes unnoticed until it's too late.

💡Enforcer

An enforcer, in the context of pickpocketing, is a person who prevents the victim from pursuing the thief after the theft has occurred. The script describes how enforcers may block the victim's path or act aggressively to deter them from taking action.

💡Tourist Areas

Tourist areas are locations that are frequented by visitors and travelers. The video script mentions that pickpockets often operate in these areas because of the high concentration of potential targets. Examples given include the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

💡ATM Machine

An ATM (Automated Teller Machine) is a device that allows customers to perform financial transactions, such as cash withdrawals. The script warns about the risk of being targeted by pickpockets or thieves while using an ATM, especially those near tourist attractions.

💡Impersonation

Impersonation is the act of pretending to be someone else, often with the intent to deceive. The video script mentions a scam where criminals impersonate police officers to trick tourists into revealing their personal information or money.

💡Money Belt

A money belt is a type of concealed pouch worn around the waist to securely carry cash, passports, and other valuables. The script suggests using a money belt as one of the safety measures to protect personal belongings from pickpockets.

💡Crossbody Bag

A crossbody bag is a type of bag that is worn across the body with a strap over one shoulder and across the chest. The script recommends using a crossbody bag as it allows the user to keep their belongings close and under constant supervision, reducing the risk of theft.

Highlights

Pig pockets in Paris operate in teams and have distinct behavioral profiles.

Spotters or Observers look for easy targets in crowds, often tourists with luggage or who seem uncertain.

To avoid being targeted, keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Pickpocket teams include a distractor, a thief, and an enforcer to prevent pursuit.

Paris is generally safe, but being vigilant in tourist-heavy areas is advised.

Common pickpocket hotspots include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and major train stations.

Groups of women with empty bags or coats may be concealing pickpocketing attempts.

Avoid engaging with individuals causing a scene, as it may be a distraction tactic.

Children and teens may also be involved in pickpocketing, acting brazenly and aggressively.

Local guides can provide safety and knowledge while visiting Paris.

Impersonators posing as officials or helpers at Metro stations can be a scam.

Be wary of clipboard carriers who may use them to shield pickpocketing actions.

ATMs near tourist attractions are prime spots for thieves to watch and rob.

Avoid using ATMs alone and choose ones away from crowded areas.

Criminals may impersonate police officers to scam tourists for their documents and money.

Most visitors to Paris do not encounter pickpockets if they are vigilant and prepared.

Wearing a sling or money belt and keeping bags secure can deter pickpockets.

Education on pickpocket behaviors and tactics can significantly enhance personal safety.

Transcripts

Paris as this fair share of pig pockets

and there's a lot of misinformation on

what they look like and how they operate

over the past 3 years we've had four

encounters with pig pockets in Paris and

we witness many more I wish that someone

had told us what we're about to tell you

so we didn't have to learn it the hard

way pickpockets don't have just one

profile it's their behavior that you

should be looking for so in this video

we're going to tell you what Behavior to

look for for how they'll try to rub you

and what to do if it happens to you Ona

one of the first things I do when I get

in a metro station or in a high tourist

area is I look for someone specific and

that is the spotter or the Observer

pickpockets operate in teams and there's

usually a spotter looking for an easy

target and that person usually stands

alone or sometimes there are two of them

and they are scanning the crowd they're

looking for people with luggage or who

seem uncertain maybe people who are in a

conversation and not paying attention to

their surroundings and of course

tourists who are likely to have good

easy stuff to take if you see one and

sometimes it's obvious do not engage

with them just be aware that another

accomplice is right around the corner

and will be notified when the right

target is coming and if you follow the

simple rule of having your bag zipped

and having your stuff where you know

where it is they'll look for other

easier targets because you look like

you're just too much trouble to Rob and

our previews of

on how to outsmart pickpocket I said

that pickpocketing was a team sport and

that's 100% accurate so here are the

typical players that you'll see the

first player is the distractor their job

is to distract you by any means

necessary being overly friendly and very

exuberant in their Joy to the point that

it may be uncomfortable and wonder

what's going on or they can act crazy

like talking loudly and make weird

movements or sometimes they're a little

bit overaggressive that's the distractor

and you should keep an eye on them but

they're not your biggest problem the

second player is the problem and that's

the thief and while you're distracted by

the distractor the thief will make their

move and take your stuff and this

happens so fast that even if you see it

happening by the time you react they may

be gone and that's when the third player

comes into play and that's the enforc

the enforcer's job is to prevent you

from trying to catch the thief by

blocking the way or by being super

aggressive and in your face pretending

that nothing happened and that you're

the one causing trouble and that's

usually the bigger of the three so now

that you know how the game is played

remember to spot all the players and be

aware of them the best way to protect

yourself is by not falling for their

trick of getting

distracted now before we move on I I

want to be perfectly clear Paris is a

safe place and you don't need to be

nervous or looking over your shoulder

it's just important to know the

behaviors to look for and where they're

most likely to hang out as I've said in

previous videos opportunists go where

they see opportunity and the biggest

opportunities are in places where you

find lots of tourists it's a good idea

to be on alert and know where your bags

are and have them zipped when you're

near the Eiffel Tower or at a metro

station near the Eiffel Tower the Shan

and the arc Ops are hot spots as well

the same is true for the Lou the first

time we got pickpocketed was buying

tickets in a metro station by the Lou we

were tired and let our guard down and we

didn't even notice until we were Seated

on the train and saw the zipper of the

backpack was open the second time was in

a restaurant when a woman used her coat

to hide her hands while digging into my

bag sitting on the seat next to Antoine

it was pretty Brazen and in a popular

tourist area as well and right here at

sacur is another place to pay attention

the other place to be careful is in

major train stations like gor gont peras

ger Leon these are definitely places you

should be careful as well but in the

quiet neighborhoods away from the

touristic areas you're going to be safe

and you're going to feel comfortable now

the next one is we've seen that behavior

more than once probably because we were

able to spot it from far away now you

may see a group of women sometime fairly

well-dressed and they all have something

in common they have an empty canvas bag

in front of them or a coat right over

their arm and if you don't know what to

look for it may look like they're out

and about shopping but the bag or the

coat is there to hide their sneaky hands

trying to get into your backpack or into

your bag and personally I don't sit near

anyone if I cannot see their hands these

women are skilled at letting their

fingers do the work without needing to

see them and beware of them they can be

very Brazen and and will often try to

make a scene as a distraction avoid them

if you can but if they approach you

remain calm and cold and do not engage

in whatever theatrics they may try and

do not turn your back on them remember

that they work in teams and they may be

three or four of them if you look like

too much trouble they'll move on they

don't want to fight they just want to

steal your stuff now you may be noticing

a trend here about making a scene

because French people won't do that

they're generally very discreet and

subtle you'll notice them reading a book

or on their phones maybe even sleeping

but you won't find them speaking loudly

or calling attention to themselves if

you hear a commotion around you be on

alert it may be a couple two men or two

women and there'll be arguing or being

extra exuberant or they could even act

depressed or panicked whatever you do

don't get involved we had a guy once who

was talking really loud to himself and

acting weird like he had a few screws

loose but he was sharp enough to reach

into Antoine's coat pocket and be

indignant when he was caught and I'm

sorry to say that you have to be on the

lookout for kids and teens doing this as

well there's a ring leader grooming them

to go out and meet their quota they can

be very Brazen and aggressive don't

engage with them they literally fear

nothing they'll just make a big scene

grab something and run off be on alert

and take care of yourself one of the

best way to feel safe around Paris is by

having a local guide with you if this

sounds like something you'd want check

out our page with a list of local guides

you can hire to visit the top

attractions in and around Paris some

will even pick you up directly from your

hotel and bring you back there's a link

in the description below check it out

and see if it's a good fit for you the

next one took us by surprise one day we

were in the Metro station by the machine

like these behind and two British ladies

were struggling buying their ticket at

the machine a young man in a white

button down shirt with some kind of

lanyard came over to offer help he looks

somewhat official he didn't look right

to me so I asked the official agent

inside the station kiosk about him she

stormed out to chase him and he ran away

official employees at Metro and train

stations wear a vest with a ratp or sntf

logo on it so if someone comes from out

of the blue offering help and they're

not wearing an official vest don't take

their help and there's a matter of back

right behind me the guy with the blue

hoodie is doing exactly that what

they're trying to do is help you buy a

day pass or other high price ticket then

switch it with a slide ah hand for

reduce Fair ticket you won't notice it

when you enter the Metro but if you try

to scan it for a second ride it will be

worthless and even worse if you get

controlled by an agent asking you to

present your ticket you will end up with

a hefty fine for trying to cheat the

system if you need help go to the kiosk

and ask for help do not take help from

someone like this another way

pickpockets hide their hands is behind a

clipboard now that may sound silly but

those people with the clipboards asking

you to sign a survey are more than just

annoying they do a couple of more sneaky

things when they get real close to have

you sign the board is covering their

hands while they reach into your bag or

pinch your phone from your pocket and if

you're feeling kind and just want to

give them a couple of Euros what they're

happiest about is that you just show

them and their Partners where your money

is please don't engage with them the

signatures and the money are not going

to charity they're just going in their

pockets take care of yourself one of the

scariest way that people get

pickpocketed or robbed in Paris is by an

ATM machine like this one especially the

ATM machine near a major tourist

attraction when people go to an ATM to

retrieve some money the thief will wait

until you put in your PIN code and

that's when they'll strike you'll get

approached by a kid or by a beggar to

your right and they'll ask for

directions basically what they're doing

is they're trying to distract you but

their partner is watching closely and

they will approach you from the left and

as soon as your money comes out they'll

grab it and run and this is a very well

oil scheme their timing is impeccable so

this is how you deal with this never

ever ever retrieve money at an ATM

machine alone all always have someone

watch your back and try not to use the

ATM machine near a major attraction use

one near your hotel away from the crowds

but whatever you do don't do it alone

now we've heard from some of our fans

and people in our Facebook group that

there are Crooks trying to impersonate

police officers in Paris they flash a

fake police badge and ask you for your

ID papers and if you have any

counterfeit bills with you now that's

obviously a scam but it's easy to

understand why some people fall for this

they're in a foreign country not sure

what to make of it so they comply and

show their ID and wave whatever bills

they have with them but don't do it

French police will never ask you

anything like this if this happens to

you it's your turn to make a scene and

draw as much attention to yourself as

possible impersonating a police officer

in France is a very serious crime and

these guys will not want to be caught

doing it look the vast majority of

visitors we talk to say we never

encountered a pickpocket when we were in

Paris people often say I never saw a pig

pocket in Paris I am not sure what the

fuss is all about and they are right

you'll most likely be very safe and not

see a thing during your visit we've been

in Paris for the last 3 years and

usually in high tourist areas we see

Peak pockets all the time but we only

had to deal with them four times twice

they got in our bags and didn't get much

and twice we cut them in the act and

they stopped it now when we're in Paris

I always wear my sling and wear it in

front of me in busy areas and I always

wear a money belt as for Colleen she

either wears her bag a cross a body and

keep her hand on the zipper or have her

bag under her jacket when she's in the

Metro don't keep anything in your pants

front or back pocket keep your valuables

always zipped and in front of you when

you're in Paris be prepared with the

right gear and know what to look for and

you'll be just fine if you like this

video on how to spot Pick Pockets next I

would watch this one on the 10 unspoken

rules tourists keep breaking in

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Paris