Pickpockets thrive in crowded places such as public transportation, markets, and stores. Tourists are often targeted near famous historical landmarks especially when they are busy taking photos or recording videos.
Pickpockets, how they operate?
Pickpockets rarely work alone. A common tactic involves one thief distracting the victim while another steals. Many pickpockets carry an object—such as a bundle, a piece of clothing, or even a rolled-up newspaper to divert attention.
A bouquet of flowers is also a clever prop.
Stay away from suspicious or overly friendly strangers who touch you “accidentally” during a conversation or insist on helping clean a supposed stain on your clothing.
Be especially cautious if someone bumps into you—that’s a classic pickpocketing trick. And let’s not even start on the risks at the beach, where some people practically hand over their wallets to thieves by being careless!
REMEMBER: One steals, the other distracts!
Public Transport, Beware of Pickpockets.
Most thefts happen in crowded buses, trains, or subways. Be cautious of anyone standing too close when you board or exit. Avoid getting boxed in by suspicious individuals in tight spaces.
If someone suddenly drops coins or belongings, think twice before rushing to help you may have just walked into a trap. The thief could be operating right next to you!
Drunk individuals are an easy target for pickpockets, and different methods bordering on outright robbery are used to steal from them.
Favorite Techniques of Pickpockets.
1. Unzipped Bags or Plastic Bags.
It’s a mistake to assume that carrying a bag in your hands keeps it safe. An open or loosely closed bag is an open invitation for pickpockets. Even bags with Velcro fasteners offer little protection.
Backpacks, especially popular among young people, are an incredibly easy target. Never wear your backpack on your back in public transport move it to your front and keep a firm grip on it.
Store wallets deep inside your bag, preferably in an inner pocket on the side facing your body. Large handbags should never be placed on the floor or left unattended.
2. The Back Pocket (for Men).
In pickpocket jargon, the back pocket is known as “the stranger’s pocket.” It is the easiest place for a thief to snatch a wallet unnoticed. In summer, when clothing is lighter, store your wallet in a front or side pocket—ideally one with a zipper.
3. Mobile Phones on Neck Straps.
Cutting a thin strap and stealing a phone is effortless for a thief, especially in a crowd. Remember, stolen phones are quickly resold or dismantled. Blocking your phone or tracking its location is often useless.
4. The Front Passenger Seat in Cars.
Drivers often place handbags or wallets on the front passenger seat and forget to lock the doors. This makes for an easy grab-and-go theft.
Thieves strike at gas stations while you’re refueling, when opening the trunk, or while you’re distracted by a conversation. They may even slash a tire, forcing you to stop—giving them the perfect opportunity to rob you.
To avoid this, always keep valuables out of sight. If leaving your car unattended for an extended period, never leave expensive items inside.
While driving, keep your doors locked. At a red light, an opportunistic thief could open your door and snatch valuable items—or worse, pull you out and steal your car.
5. The “Wealthy Man’s Syndrome” (Showing Off).
Advice: Never flash a wallet full of cash at an ATM or in a store. Pickpockets watch for these moments and track where you put your wallet, waiting for the right time to strike.
If carrying a significant amount of money, distribute it across multiple pockets, envelopes, or hidden compartments. Also, resist the urge to check on your hidden money frequently—it’s more obvious than you think.
Law of Trouble, Paradox of Life.
You may wonder, What is the Law of Trouble? Why do bad things seem to happen to good people? The Law of Trouble suggests that if there is a chance for misfortune to occur, it likely will especially for those who worry excessively about potential problems.
This mindset leads to stress, loss of vitality, and negative thinking.
Experts argue that, in many cases, people are responsible for their own problems. The universe sends subtle warnings, but many fail to notice them, leading to misfortunes.
Whether you call it fate, divine intervention, or intuition, our mindset greatly influences our experiences. Negative thinking, anxiety, and obsession with problems attract a cycle of bad luck.
The Law of Trouble vs. the Law of Karma.
The Law of Trouble is not the same as the Law of Karma. Things don’t happen because of cosmic punishment but because of deeply ingrained negative thought patterns.
Low self-esteem, lack of confidence, and distrust in others contribute to a life filled with setbacks. To break this cycle, shift your mindset towards positive thinking.
How to Avoid the Law of Trouble.
1. Reduce the Emotional Weight of Events Many people blame external circumstances instead of taking personal responsibility.
For instance, if someone loses their job, they might blame their boss rather than their own mistakes. Changing your perspective helps lessen the impact of setbacks.
2. Understand That Life is 15% Events and 85% Your Reaction Life is less about what happens and more about how you respond. Keeping a calm and rational outlook can change how events unfold.
3. Acknowledge the Power of Thought According to spiritual teachings, the universe listens to our desires. However, obsessing over something too much can create resistance, leading to delays and obstacles.
4. Think Positively Stop fearing that happiness is temporary. Constant anxiety creates the perfect environment for failure. Yes, challenges are inevitable, but dwelling on worst-case scenarios will only invite more difficulties.
5. Solve Problems as They Arise Don’t let problems accumulate in your mind. If you are going through a rough patch, remember: after every dark period, there comes a brighter one. Hard times don’t last forever.
Stay Safe, and May Fortune Favor You!
Have a great day!
