Pickpocketing in Netherlands

Large cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Take extra care on main shopping streets, public transport, at stations and around tourist crowds.

How it works

Someone takes a wallet, phone or other valuables from your pocket or bag without you noticing.

Warning signs

People are pressing closely around you.
Your bag is open or your valuables are easy to reach.

How to avoid it

Keep valuables in a closed bag held in front of you.
Avoid carrying a phone or wallet in a back pocket.
Check that your bag is closed before boarding or entering crowds.
Carry only the cash and cards you need.

If it happens to you

Move somewhere safe, block missing cards and report the theft to police. Use another device to lock a stolen phone.

Move to a safe public place. Avoid chasing a thief or arguing with someone who threatens you.
If there is immediate danger or an urgent injury, call 112 and say whether you need police, an ambulance or firefighters.
Block missing payment cards through your card issuer. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
Save receipts, messages, payment records and useful details, such as a taxi number. Write down what happened, where and when.
Report theft or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference and contact your insurer if relevant.
Contact the taxi company or seller about a dispute. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement help.

Where it happensLarge cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Take extra care on main shopping streets, public transport, at stations and around tourist crowds.

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in NetherlandsBicycle theft: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the pickpocketing scam in Netherlands?

Someone takes a wallet, phone or other valuables from your pocket or bag without you noticing.

How can I spot it early?

People are pressing closely around you. Your bag is open or your valuables are easy to reach.

How do I avoid pickpocketing in Netherlands?

Keep valuables in a closed bag held in front of you. Avoid carrying a phone or wallet in a back pocket. Check that your bag is closed before boarding or entering crowds. Carry only the cash and cards you need.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Move somewhere safe, block missing cards and report the theft to police. Use another device to lock a stolen phone.

Where in Netherlands does this happen?

Large cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague. Take extra care on main shopping streets, public transport, at stations and around tourist crowds.

How common is this scam in Netherlands?

Common. The Netherlands is generally safe, but taxi scams are common. Visitors should also watch for pickpockets, baggage theft and bicycle theft, especially in large cities and busy tourist areas.

Are there similar scams in Netherlands?

Yes: bicycle theft, baggage theft.

Who can I report it to?

Police (Politie): report theft or suspected fraud and provide evidence. Ask for a report reference. Call 112 only when there is an emergency. Taxi company: complain using the taxi number, journey details, receipt and amount charged. Record the number if a driver refuses a short ride. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to freeze missing cards and report unauthorised charges. Ask whether a disputed payment can be challenged. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen. Most embassies are in The Hague. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police reference, receipts and a list of missing items. Bicycle rental company: tell the company promptly if its bicycle is stolen. Follow its reporting instructions and provide police report details.

What number do I call in an emergency in Netherlands?

Police, ambulance and fire emergencies: 112.

Reviewed by @snuck