According to 2026 travel security data and "Theft Indexes," Italy continues to report the highest frequency of pickpocketing incidents involving tourists, particularly in its major cultural hubs. Rome (specifically around the Colosseum and Termini Station) and Florence are hotspots where sophisticated teams operate. However, France (Paris) and Spain (Barcelona) follow very closely behind. In Paris, the area around the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre remains high-risk, while in Barcelona, the Las Ramblas pedestrian mall is legendary for "distraction thefts." Interestingly, while Italy has the highest total number of reports, the rate per visitor is also very high in Greece (Athens) and The Netherlands (Amsterdam). In 2026, pickpockets have evolved to use more "digital" distractions, such as asking you to help with a phone app or a fake petition, while an accomplice lifts your wallet. To stay safe, the 2026 recommendation is to avoid back pockets entirely and use "anti-theft" bags with locking zippers or hidden "slash-proof" mesh, as well as keeping a digital backup of your passport on a secure cloud drive.