Street Scams and Pickpockets

Paris is a very safe city regarding violent crime, but it is a hotspot for petty theft and organized street scams targeting tourists around Montmartre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre.

The Petition Scam

Usually young girls approaching you asking "Do you speak English?" while holding a clipboard for a fake charity (often deaf/mute). While you look at the clipboard, their hands are in your pockets.

The Bracelet Scam

Men at the base of Sacré-Cœur will grab your wrist, tie a string bracelet on it, pull it tight so it can't be removed, and demand €20. Keep your hands in your pockets when walking up the stairs to Montmartre.

Metro Pickpockets

Highly skilled rings operate on Metro Line 1 and Line 9, especially during rush hour. A sudden push at the doors right as the buzzer sounds is the standard technique.