Common scams distraction · Distraction in Common scams
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Distraction in Common scams
Distraction in Common scams
Distraction thefts take a variety of forms. Generally the thieves work in groups: one or more will distract you and the other will rob you while you're distracted. Examples of distractions include:
ready-made distractions like a busker, departure boards, or your own phone or music player;
having an attractive accomplice talk to you;
minor assaults, such as throwing things at you;
having a child talk to you and when the child's "parent" comes to apologize, the child steals something due to the distraction of the new conversation
fake drownings and similar emergencies causing you to leave your belongings behind; or
staged assaults or fights between accomplices.
It's best to be aware of what's going on around you in any public place and to be suspicious of strangers who appear to be trying to single you out. If you are the victim of a minor assault, suspect that it's the prelude to a robbery attempt and if you feel safe enough, try to get in a position where you can look after your belongings. Unfortunately, you may need to refuse the help of concerned onlookers; it's common to have an accomplice pose as a concerned onlooker.
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Common scams Travel Guide from Wikitravel. Many thanks to all Wikitravel contributors. Text is available under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0, images are available under various licenses, see each image for details.