Ever had that sinking feeling when you reach for your wallet, and it’s gone? Pickpockets are experts at making that happen - disappearing with your belongings before you even realise.
Whether it’s a quick bump in a crowded market or a casual brush on the Tube, these thieves know exactly how to work the crowd.
The UK’s top pickpocketing hotspots have been revealed - and sadly they are all in London.
READ MORE: London crime
Security experts, Get Licensed carried out research to reveal where people are most at risk of being pickpocketed in the UK.
Today, National World has launched its Silent Crime campaign - shining a light on the crimes that often go unreported.
Here in London, pickpocketing is a common crime, which is on the rise. In December 2023, news outlets reported a whopping 83% increase in thefts from persons on the London Underground.
1. Stay alert & aware - be mindful of your surroundings and any distraction techniques.
2. Keep your belongings secure - use crossbody bags or backpacks that can be securely fastened or worn on the front.
3. Keep zippers on bags facing towards your body.
4. Avoid carrying bags loosely on your shoulder or holding them behind you
5. Avoid keeping all your important belongings (wallet, phone, passport) in one place. Spread them across various pockets or bags.
6. Invest in anti-theft backpacks or bags with lockable zippers or slash-proof materials.
7. Don’t display large amounts of cash, expensive electronics, or flashy jewellery in public. Avoid pulling out your phone or wallet unnecessarily on busy streets.
8. Try to avoid pushing through crowds or being stuck in situations where you're physically boxed in.
9. Keep essentials like your passport or extra cash in a secure, hidden location. If you need to access them, do so in a safe, private place.
10. Be cautious when someone tries to engage you with a story, asks for directions, or offers to help you in unexpected ways. These can be tactics used to divert attention.
1. Pickpocketing hotspots in London
Pickpocketing hotspots map | Submitted
2. Westminster
Westminster has been named the UK’s pickpocketing capital. It’s no surprise that Westminster is at the top of the list. Home to iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and the Houses of Parliament, this area attracts millions of tourists each year. Unfortunately, it also attracts a large number of pickpockets. From March 2023 to March 2024, there were 28,155 reported incidents of theft from the person, which is over 13,320 cases per 100,000 people! | Getty Images
3. Camden
Camden is famous for its lively market and nightlife, which makes it a hotspot for both locals and tourists. But with its bustling streets come increased opportunities for pickpocketing. Last year, 6,848 incidents were reported, translating to 3,141 thefts per 100,000 people. It’s clear that Camden is a place where visitors need to be extra cautious. | Getty Images
4. Southwark
Another London borough with high levels of street theft is Southwark. Known for popular attractions like London Bridge, The Shard, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, Southwark saw 5,935 pickpocketing incidents last year, or about 1,903 reports per 100,000 people. | Getty Images