Travelling to London? Expert tips to avoid pickpocketing and scams while in the city

She suggested the following methods to ensure you and your belongings are safe:

1. Keep your bag and valuables in front of you, under the jacket.
2. Avoid crowds: Pickpockets often operate in busy areas such as popular tourist spots, the undergrounds and markets.
3. Never participate in games like “find the ball” – they are scams, and you are guaranteed to lose.
4. Be careful at crossings. Always look right first, as traffic moves on the left.
5. Don’t enter the red phone booths. They’re dirty and often used by scammers.
6. Place newspapers on bus seats for hygiene to avoid sitting on dirty surfaces.
7. Use newspapers on bus seats or benches while waiting to keep away from dirty surfaces.
8. Don’t use charging ports on public transport; instead, use your own charger.
9. Be careful of cyclists and motorcyclists coming up, as they might snatch your belongings while riding by.

DK Ghatani, travel consultant at Sikkim Expedition, tells indianexpress.com, “Victoria’s Way offers practical advice, such as keeping bags zipped, avoiding phone use in crowded areas, and staying alert in busy tourist spots. These tips are highly effective, but travellers can adopt additional strategies for enhanced safety.”

Don’t enter the red phone booths. They’re dirty and often used by scammers. (Source: Freepik)

Additional strategies for safety

Ghatani gives some additional tips for passengers:

Use Anti-Theft Bags: Invest in bags with slash-proof straps, locking zippers, and RFID-blocking compartments to prevent skimming.

Keep Valuables Close: Use a money belt or hidden pouch for passports, credit cards, and cash. Avoid keeping valuables in back pockets or loose bags.

Beware of Crowded Areas: Tourist spots like Oxford Street, Leicester Square, and Camden Market are common pickpocketing zones. Stay extra cautious during festivals or events.

Avoid Displaying Wealth: Refrain from wearing expensive jewellery or flaunting cash, as this makes you an easy target.

Secure Your Smartphone: Use phone lanyards or grip accessories to prevent snatch thefts, especially when using maps or taking photos.

Learn Local Emergency Numbers: Memorise the police helpline (999 in the UK) and other local contacts for quick assistance.

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