Signs are in Russian, so it is helpful to learn the Cyrillic alphabet before you come. Marked taxis are increasingly present in Moscow, but not in other cities. Crime against Persons Recent police statistics for Moscow report an overall decline in crime, though drug-related crimes, murders, and kidnappings have increased, and street crime, sometimes violent, remains a continuing problem. In Moscow, the most prevalent crime is theft, primarily from hotel rooms and train compartments, and by pickpockets and bands of street criminals. While there is little overt anti-American sentiment in Russia, Westerners are often targeted because of their perceived wealth, and street criminals operate in areas frequented by tourists and business travelers.
Most foreigners are easily identifiable on Russian streets.
To reduce the risk of personal crime, U.S. businesspeople should be alert to their surroundings and guard belongings in hotels, restaurants and other high-density tourist areas. Do not assume that you can blend in on the street. Though better-educated Russians in major cities often speak good English, you should be prepared to operate in Russian. U.S. businesses should hire a reputable interpreter when conducting important negotiations. Not having product literature in Russian will put your company at a big disadvantage relative to your European and Asian competitors, not to mention local firms.