Women should carry their billfold or coin purse in a coat pocket. If you must carry a purse, firmly grasp the top portion of the purse while shopping, waiting for, or riding a bus. Be aware of your surroundings and watch for suspicious people or vehicles. When driving, keep your vehicle doors locked at all times and windows rolled up. Never pick up hitchhikers.
Pickpockets usually work in teams of two or three people.
They take their time, stalk their victims, and strike when the victims are most vulnerable. Always be aware of possible distractions staged by a pickpocket team. Pickpockets may drop something in front of you, or cause a loud commotion near you, as a distraction. Once you are distracted, the other pickpocket steals your valuables and walks away. If you are jostled, bumped, or crowded by anyone, consider that a pickpocket may be in action.