Scam in MonacoTheft
Pickpocketing at sporting events in Monaco
How it works
Someone takes a wallet, phone or other valuable from a pocket or bag. Crowded sporting events are the main situation highlighted.
Warning signs
- Crowds are packed closely around you.
- Your bag is open or behind you.
- Your phone or wallet is sticking out of a pocket.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag zipped and in front of you in crowds.
- Put your phone and wallet in a secure pocket.
- Carry only the cash and cards you need.
- Check your belongings after moving through a crowd.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Freeze stolen cards, secure a stolen phone and report the theft to police. Do not chase the thief.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid a confrontation or chasing a thief.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- If your phone was stolen, use its remote lock feature and secure important accounts.
- Save receipts, booking details, screenshots and a short account of what happened. Note the time, place and vehicle details if relevant.
- Report suspected fraud or theft to police. Ask for a report reference for your bank or insurer.
- Contact your insurer about a claim. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement advice.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Travel blog20262027 Monaco Grand Prix Travel Guide - GPDestinations.comThe race travel guide warns that pickpockets and scammers operate in the narrow streets and passages entering and leaving the Monaco Grand Prix circuit.Read on Travel blog
- News1969Travel: Pickpocket SeasonThis historical report describes a Scotland Yard inspector identifying the Monaco Grand Prix as a regular stop for international professional pickpockets.Read on News
Questions
What is the pickpocketing at sporting events scam in Monaco?
Someone takes a wallet, phone or other valuable from a pocket or bag. Crowded sporting events are the main situation highlighted.
How can I spot it early?
Crowds are packed closely around you. Your bag is open or behind you. Your phone or wallet is sticking out of a pocket.
How do I avoid pickpocketing at sporting events in Monaco?
Keep your bag zipped and in front of you in crowds. Put your phone and wallet in a secure pocket. Carry only the cash and cards you need. Check your belongings after moving through a crowd.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Freeze stolen cards, secure a stolen phone and report the theft to police. Do not chase the thief.
Where in Monaco does this happen?
Crowds during the Formula One Grand Prix and major football games.
How common is this scam in Monaco?
Occasional. Monaco has very little street crime and a strong police presence. Taxi overcharging is the main scam concern described here, while pickpocketing can happen in crowds at major sporting events.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft or suspected fraud. Give the location, time, description and any receipts or other evidence. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or an official contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep receipts and any police report reference. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost or stolen passport.
Reviewed by @snuck