When driver stops, thief helps change tire, while other takes driver's belongings. Avoid driving at night on highways in Southern Italy. When stopped at service areas on Auto-strada, ensure car remains in sight. One person should remain with car, partly because thieves mark unattended vehicles. Marked vehicle followed by accomplices who use one of above scams.
Thieves impersonate police to gain confidence of tourists.
Threat level varies from low to medium, depending on location. Coldest month, Jan.avg. All Italian-specification cars equipped with special fog lights. Use car lights half hour after sunset until half hour before sunrise. No full beam lights allowed in built-up areas.