Paris. Violent crime is relatively uncommon in the city centre. Pickpockets are the most significant problem and are commonly children under the age of 16 because they are difficult to prosecute. Pickpockets are very active on the rail link from Charles de Gaulle Airport to the city centre.

As of 2026, the most common crime in Paris continues to be petty theft and pickpocketing, particularly in high-traffic tourist areas and on the public transport network. According to 2025–2026 crime reports, "non-violent larceny" accounts for the majority of police reports in the city. The most frequent targets are smartphones, luxury watches, and wallets. Pickpockets often work in teams and use "distraction techniques," such as asking for a signature on a petition, spilling a drink on you, or creating a bottleneck at the doors of the RER B train from the airport. While violent crime remains relatively low compared to other global mega-cities, "snatch-and-grab" thefts by individuals on scooters have seen a slight uptick in 2026. Travelers are advised to use "anti-theft" backpacks, avoid keeping phones in back pockets, and remain particularly vigilant at the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Gare du Nord train station.