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7 Items That Make You a Target for Theft

7 Items That Make You a Target for Theft[Image Via “On Target” by viZZZual]

Foreign cities, states and countries are full of culture, beauty and experiences you will never forget. Unfortunately, some of those memories might be filled with the stress of a stolen wallet or pickpocketing.

We have covered some of the biggest scams thieves use on tourists. You can find that information here…

However, people, no matter where they travel, can make themselves a target without even realizing it.

The police department is a great place to start when you are worried about visiting unfamiliar territory. Many departments have a website filled with information and you can also request or view brochures with tons of tips tailored to that area. Start by visiting the city website and chamber of commerce on your hunt for warnings and advice.

Generally speaking, you should also be aware of these things that will make you a target for pickpockets and thieves…

Souvenirs – We all love those little mementos of our trips, but items like a lei in Hawaii or those Statue of Liberty crowns in New York will put a tourist target on your back. The goal is to blend in like a local. Thieves like to take advantage of tourists’ lack of locale savvy. Go ahead and buy those crowns and take home a lei, just don’t sport it down the streets.

Cameras – Those giant and expensive cameras will take pristine pictures of your time vacationing, but they are just another mark of a typical tourist. Take something reasonable to snap photos instead of that pricey and cumbersome camera. When you are done taking a pic, stow it away in a purse strung across your body.

family car bumper sticker

Car Decals – You have probably seen those decals on the back window of family-sized vehicles. You might even have one showing off your pride in your family. However, these stickers offer thieves a ton of personal information. For example, the sticker above lets criminals know: dad is in the military so he might be gone for an extended period of time, mom likes purses and probably has a closet full of them, the son has football practice, there is a helpless baby and only a cat to deal with.

Backpacks – They seem like such a great idea and can be convenient, but they are a signal that you are a tourist. They are also easier to sneak in and out of while waiting in lines or even walking down the street.

Jewelry – It is pretty obvious, but it is worth repeating. Leave the diamonds at home unless you want mark yourself with a shiny bulls-eye.

Phones/Maps – Bust out that map in the middle of the sidewalk or start staring at your phone as you stand around a tourist point and pickpockets not only have a clue you aren’t local, but they have a distraction.

Don’t be afraid of the world or traveling. Just be careful and smart!