• The best way to prevent street theft is to maintain awareness and use cards over cash, carrying only small amounts of cash to avoid irretrievable financial loss.
• Valuables should be kept close to the body in front pockets or money belts, and using RFID wallets and zippered compartments adds layers of security.
• Travelers should “dress down” to avoid obvious displays of wealth, and leave expensive jewelry and watches in a secure location.
• In crowds, travelers must be wary of distraction scams, such as those involving a petition or emotional appeals, as criminals often operate in coordinated groups.

This guide outlines essential strategies for travelers to prevent street theft, pickpocketing, and scams, emphasizing the importance of alertness and employing layered security measures. The foundational advice is to maintain awareness of your surroundings and avoid carrying excessive assets.

Regarding currency, experts recommend relying more on credit or debit cards for purchases and carrying only the cash needed for the day, typically no more than $200. When using cards with microchips, tapping is advised over swiping to prevent skimming. For physical security, valuables—including money, cards, and passports—should be kept close to the body, ideally in front pockets or in a money belt worn beneath clothing.

Travelers are encouraged to invest in secure gear, such as cross-body bags with slash-proof straps and zipper-secured compartments. Using RFID wallets is recommended to protect cards from remote data theft. Furthermore, projecting a low profile by “dressing down” and leaving expensive jewelry at home helps deter criminals. In crowded areas, especially at tourist attractions, travelers should be highly skeptical of emotional appeals or common distraction tactics, such as asking for a signature on a petition, as scammers often work in teams. Finally, travelers should safeguard their phones by deleting sensitive financial apps and ensuring regular cloud backups.