If you’ve ever fallen victim to pickpocketing you know how devastating and frustrating it can be. Holidays are all about good food, good drinks and good vibes. The last thing you want to happen is for the cash you’ve saved all year to be taken from you in the blink of an eye. 

With European summer fast approaching, it’s wise to brush up on your skills to avoid falling victim to petty theft, but also to be aware of hotspots for pickpockets. New research by U.K.-based insurance comparison website, Quotezone.co.uk, has ranked the top ten European countries for pickpockets. 

Italy topped the list with popular tourist sites like the Trevi Fountain among one of the most popular places for pickpockets. Iconic attractions are often hotbeds for petty theft as tourists are distracted and the area is crowded, meaning pickpockets can take your belongings without you noticing. 

France came in second – another country known for its iconic tourist attractions, like the Eiffel Tower – and Netherlands placed third. 

Here is complete list of the top European countries with the most pickpocketing incidents:

1. Italy 
2. France 
3. Netherlands
4. Germany
5. Greece
6. Spain
7. Portugal 
8. Turkey 
9. Ireland 
10. Poland 

And if you are travelling to Europe this year and plan on sightseeing you can stay safe with some simple tips.

• Do not carry large amounts of money on you. Keep them in your hotel room safe and ensure that the hotel safe has been locked properly. 
• Keep your belongings close to you and in a secure bag. A money belt is great as are cross-body bags with zips. Do not keep valuables in your pockets as pickpockets will take full advantage. 
• When at crowded sites ensure your bag is at the front of your body, not behind and out of sight. When not taking photos ensure you have a hand placed over the opening of your bag so that if someone tries to reach in you will feel it. 
• Never leave your belongings unattended. For example, if you’re at a restaurant and going to the bathroom do not leave your things on the table. 
• Pickpockets can often try to distract you by talking to you, while another person robs you. Stay vigilant and observe what is going on around you. 

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