Take the copy with you on your trip, keeping it separate from the passport itself. While traveling, leave your passport and any money you don't expect to need that day locked in a hotel safety deposit box. If local law does not require you to keep your passport with you, carry only the photocopy of your passport when you leave your hotel. Find out which parts of town local inhabitants consider risky. Be especially alert in crowds.
Thieves often strike when travelers are distracted.
A bag casually left at one's feet or on a cart while checking a train schedule or using a telephone is an easy target. Money belts or pouches worn on the outside of clothing or loosely hung around the neck are easily cut or ripped off. Wearing them on the outside highlights where you keep your valuables. Travel with several passport-sized photos. It can be hard to get replacement photos on short notice if your passport is lost or stolen.