Beware of these tricks

Safety: Beware of these tricks

Shopping districts, historic sites, tourist attractions, trains and buses are typical haunts of con artists, bag-snatchers and pickpockets. Be on your guard against men, women and even children who want to dishonestly rid you of cash and belongings on holiday.

Bags and briefcases

• Use bags that secure properly. "Drop in" types, or those that close with just a popper, are too easy for people to dip into and steal from
• Keep bags zipped-up in crowded places
• Try slinging bags across your chest where they will be visible
• Cover the opening of your bag in crowds
• Always keep an eye on your bags

Distraction cons

Gangs and twosomes often use distraction ploys. Be wary of strangers' attentions, especially at tourist attractions and in crowded shopping areas. Tricks include:
• Tapping a person's back and stealing their wallet from a pocket as they turn around
• Throwing objects at people to make them whirl around and drop belongings
• Snatching bags while people are bending down to tie shoelaces or have shoes shined
• Pressing against people in crowds to pick pockets
• Striking up conversation at cash machines

Local price advice

Locals know best about what souvenirs or taxi rides should cost. Get a feel for prices before you spend and always shop around if you want a good bargain.
• Agree a fare before getting into a taxi, otherwise you could be ripped off
• Gauge how much popular souvenirs and goods should cost by comparing prices
• Try to use the services of recommended businesses only
• Only use registered taxis

Driving

• Drive confidently to appear less like a tourist. Don't leave valuables in the car and try to stick to main highways or routes. Don't head down isolated lanes if you can help it and try to be discreet when reading maps
• Don't drive with an arm out of the window - thieves could swipe bracelets or rings
• Drive with the doors locked
• If you break down, think twice about accepting a stranger's help at the roadside

Paying bills

• Always note what you're paying for. In restaurants you could be charged for nibbles, appetizers and water you receive but haven't ordered
• Check bills before paying
• Note whether a service charge has already been added before tipping
• Check  the change you receive is correct
• Look for restaurants that charge tourists fairly
• Only buy expensive items, such as gems, from reputable dealers
• Don't pay the full price for items being mailed to you -just agree to a deposit

Bogus Holiday Clubs

There are reputable holiday clubs but many are bogus and want to con you out of money. If you are given a 'free' winning scratch card at your holiday resort, ask yourself:
• Do I have to sit through a lengthy sales pitch?
• Are the promises too good to be true?
• If I sign something, can I cancel or get a refund?
• What do I know about the company?
For more information about bogus holiday clubs, visitwww.oft.gov.uk/bogusholidayclubs

General advice

Some holiday spots will be tainted forever by true stories about tricksters and thieves, but you'll have a better holiday if you're alert rather than paranoid about such people. As a rule:
• Avoid deserted beaches if you're travelling alone
• Don't accept offers of sweets, food or drinks from strangers, as they may be drugged
• Don't wear expensive jewellery outside resorts
• Carry a mix of travellers' cheques and cash
• Only change money through official channels, not on the street with a stranger
• Watch for entry prices at tourist spots - some attractions raise costs for foreigners
• Never accept the services of unofficial guides
• Avoid "beach boys" in areas known for prostitution or drugs
• Don't leave belongings on the beach while swimming, even in "crime free" destinations
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office: http://www.fco.gov.uk