Thank you so much for watching! For more detailed written explanations, check out my full written guide: www.solosophie.com/5-parisian-tourist-scams-to-avoid/
I was in Paris in April, and was short-changed in a café by €10 when paying for a coffee with a €20 note. I immediately challenged the guy, and could tell from his reaction that it was deliberate. Short-changing tourists is quite common in Paris.
Same happens in London watch some foreigners buying a cup of tea with a 50 pound note from the stalls somewhere near Hyde Park and they got about £1.50 change
Best thing to do if you’re a tourist is to be able to have an experienced person with you, preferably someone who can speak French. For females you should carry a whistle with easy access - blowing that will get everyone’s attention and scammers usually run away..
I only use anti-pickpocket bags with straps and sides that can’t be cut, and pockets that zip close, with zipper tabs that clip for use in crowds. I buy Travelon brand but there are others. The pink bag in this video looks much less secure. Also, instead of dangling my phone in plain sight like that, I keep mine in a special closed pouch attached to my purse strap, and use my wrist strap when I need it as I walk around. Finally, I recommend getting a smart watch that mirrors your phone for following directions or taking calls etc. so you pull out your phone the least possible. It’s all about making yourself less of a target and using your street sense. (I’m a 74-year-old woman and travel alone, including to Paris, and haven’t been robbed yet, knock on wood!)
Great advice, I was presented with a gold ring and then asked for money in return for keeping the ring. I said no and she was insistent that she did not have a passport and needed money to get back to her own country. I had to place the ring on the back of her hand as she refused to take it back. The other one was, I was across the way from Moulin Rouge when approached by a Madam??? She was VERY PERSISTENT but when I said oh look a police car she was like a magician poof disappeared and I mean she was gone just like the Phantom. Great Video Thank you.
They nearly got me with the ticket scam. He was dressed very well and appeared very friendly. Just like a typical commuter. When he tried to hand me a ticket my gut told me this was strange and I just quickly walked away and went into the nearest shop. It was quite scary as I wasn’t sure if he was in a gang. My biggest tip in this situation is to not saying anything and quickly walk away and walk into the nearest store or cafe.
Warning! If you are renting an apartment with street views, chances are you are renting a known apartment that just might be under watch by the bad guys, waiting for you to leave for the day! Fully secure the door and be creative where you put your valuables!
Yes - thanks for the video. I got caught with the gold ring scam about 6 years ago. Still feel foolish and annoyed about it. My son had his pocket picked too but he could see it happening - he has a black belt in Aikido and gave the pickpocket a lesson in consequences. That could have been a problem though. Same kind of stuff happened in Prague where a couple of bogus ticket inspectors made big threats until I handed over a "fine" for a supposedly dodgy tram ticket. Sad that beautiful cities like these are being polluted by such rubbish.
magnificent effort, 𝗟𝗘𝗫𝗪𝗜𝗗𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗦 -I'm pleased you're merchandising with these guys. We must take all backstop to protect the elderly and the general public from these heinous con artists! You deserve it!! Brother, you deserve the highborn Peace Prize for keeping us safe.
My sister was given €3000 by a scammer to buy a Gucci bag under the pretence that the shop had refused to sell them the bag and they really wanted it. So my sister agreed but when she got up to the counter to buy the bag, the money was gone. The scammers were waiting outside the shop and were going to accuse her of stealing the money so luckily my mother asked the shop assistant to ring the police, the police arrived and whisked my sister and mother to the police station and after some interrogation released them without charge and far away from the scammers 😃
@@2138Dude Dude, if you think this, you will get scammed by the vast majority of scammers that look just like you. Scammers come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. And a lot even have posh accents, wear nice clothes, and look very wealthy.
Surely all of those apply to pretty much every major city throughout Europe ? Wherever there are tourists there are scams, and most of them are just variations on each other.
I suspect (i.e. I don't really have any idea) that Americans (and Brits?) think of the French as over-dramatic but essentially kind -- "like us." so we're going to be less on our guard. Germans, likewise. Italians? not quite as trustworthy. and other countries? "I'm surrounded by criminals!" so we (might) be more on our guard. still, it's very useful to see tips about when to be on your guard, and how to be on your guard.
There is a different in scale though, and it is quite common to see these scams in action. I was aware of the gold ring scam, and had it pulled on me, and saw it on two other occasions on one visit. Beggars sat at ATMs went from pretty rare in 2010 to every other machine in some areas by 2018. D
One of the recent scams is when staff at a cafe where you order and pay at the counter add a tip without asking if you wish to tip (and why would you??). It's not losing a few euros that would annoy me, it's the fact that someone stole it from me and got away with it.
All of these various harassments (rose, ring, bracelets) only seem to exist because the victims are unwilling to forcefully push back. I had an African try to grab my arm (which is assault) at Sacre Coure, which led to me becoming extremely aggressive and started cussing him out. We got in a screaming match and it attracted a lot of attention. If everyone did this, it would stop.
Only advisable if there are regular people around that can be alerted by the noise. If the area is deserted. Avoiding being cornered and moving away is the best action. Going the aggressive route can only escalate.
You have totally convinced me. I now have no desire to go to Paris, or other major cities in Europe, where such things frequently happen. MORE THAN JUST SAYING...
Try to get over your fears. You only have one life and it would be a terrible waste for you to avoid the rest of this marvellous world and then die regretting that “you didn’t do this or you didn’t do that” etc..
Even Helsinki (in its very historical centre) is not completely safe, so how this adorable "Paris guide" may still insist that Paris is "as safe as my home town" ?!!!...
@@philtucker1224 Crowds of world's distinguished idiots circulate around "tour d'eiffel" and similar "touristically sticky" places, and .... logically scamners made such places their own work fields ... Almost nobody of agitated idiots attend e.g. the greatest ever Museum-of-The- Great-Army, and, respectively, no scammers are present near this museum, that has (in my modest opinion) a higher value, than Louvre.
Years ago, while in Paris, I was walking along, and a car stopped by the curb. The driver leaned out with a map and tried to ask me, a tourist, directions to some place. He was rather rough looking, as was his male companion. I figured they were going to do a watch and bag grab, so I merely stayed out of grab range and commented how did they expect an obvious tourist to know where they wanted to go was. To say the least, their reaction was rather negative, and they rapidly drove off. Ah, yes, the adventures of being a tourist in Paris. Now let me tell you about Rome. Once while walking . . . . .
Thanks for the tips. I'm pretty street smart but a refresher was welcome as I'll be in Paris soon. Had the pick pocket attempt in the Rome subway, got pinned in the corner at the doors by a gang then felt someone trying to unzip my pocket. I just called out "PICKPOCKET"! then charged out off there bumping them and pushing then out off my way. They swore at me in Italian then they all got off at three next stop. They had my pocket zip half opened before I caught them.
The whole town is a total tourist trap, the city should be called ripoff. Get ripped off in the taxi from the airport, go have a meal and get ripped off, why bother going at all...
As said in the video official taxis won't rip you off on the airport trip. Their waiting stations are clearly marked and huge billboards with the fixed prices to Paris are posted right next to it and in several places inside the airport. There are actually 2 prices. One for the north side of the Seine and one for the south side. And they are not allowed to fish for clients. If they do any wrong they can lose their taxi licence which cost them an actual fortune. The people who chase clients are fake taxis.
Many of these scams also exist in the Hollywood streets where large groups of tourists visit. The city where I encountered the most scammers was the French Quarter of New Orleans. I had scammers targeting me every few minutes. It was exhausting and I avoid going there now, even if it’s for business.
I must give off "don't bother with this guy" vibes as none of these have ever happened to me in Paris or any other European city despite having visited many times. Maybe it's because I grew up and have lived and worked in NYC and project that "don't mess with me" attitude since it's never happened to me here either. And I'm not a rude person as all, just vigilant and observant. Or perhaps just lucky. 😉
well, and being a guy makes you less attractive to a scam. though it doesn't protect you against pickpockets. but yeah, "vigilant and observant" = "not worth bothering with."
@@outsidethegarden I actually don't come across as a typical American, e.g. impatient, to the point, entitled, overly confident, etc, perhaps because I wasn't born in the US, perhaps because it's just how I am, but I have lived most of my life here so I have some American qualities. But wherever I am, I try to imagine that I'm from there, if only in my own head, and adapt to the local pace and mentality as best as I can, and it seems to work. Helps to be observant.
I (a woman) found my jean's zipper unzipped when I got off the metro. It was very crowded and people close by were looking on in horror but I didn't know why until I got out of the car.
Many years ago a pick pocket tried to get into my back pack at the Eiffel tower, turned round and slapped him, than the tourist “ scales” fell from eyes, and you see all the shady characters hanging around there. I still carry a backpack, but the zip part is actually on the backside, so next to my back. I travel all over the world but even in “ safe” countries always be aware of your surroundings and people around you.
Paris taxis always want an outrageous fixed price no matter where you are. I gave up on them as they always refused to turn their meters on. I just used Uber in the end.
This is why Uber has succeeded. Traditional taxi services have made themselves irrelevant in so many places due to monopolistic attitude. They have only themselves to blame to have lost their market.
bravo to you, 𝗟𝗘𝗫𝗪𝗜𝗗𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗦 for your tremendous devotion to fighting these bogus persons. The safety and well-being of the elderly and the larger bunch should be our main priority, and you have demonstrated unflappable dedication to defending them from these despicable con artists. You certainly deserve recollection for your extraordinary work!!!!
I stayed in Paris for a couple of weeks back in October and fortunately nothing happened to me. Though this video provided me with scam information I didn't know about. Thanks :)
During my 40+ years of being an international construction manager I have past through, spent time or past through many of the world's capitals. When people in know well and respect give me advice I usually listen. Many have advised me to give Paris a pass. Some say the people of Paris are rude, other told me of getting cheated or charge ridiculous prices at bars and restaurants. I have passed through Paris many time even crossed the city going to
Sorry pressed the wrong button on my mobile: going to Orly Airport from Charles de Gaulle airport but never going into the city of Paris. Due to the advice of many people. However now retired and living in Thailand I have been planning to take my son to see the 24 hour La Mans race. Hope I can find a tour company that can arrange to pick me and my son up at a airport in Paris and take us straight to La Mans put us in a hotel for 2 or 3 days and then back to a airport in Paris for a flight back to Bangkok. I really have no desire to spend any more time than I have to in Paris.
Overall I think the name of the city is irrelevant. It’s the same in any city or tourist trap in the world where thousands of visitors cluster together in tight groups. Pickpocketing is just another of the oldest industries in the world. The country itself makes no difference to that…
I had a guy hand me something and then demand money for it, so I said "Sorry, it's mine now." He followed me for a couple of blocks, and I kept turning and smiling at him.
@@outsidethegarden Having travelled a lot, I've noticed the obvious - but avoidable - fact that when in foreign environments people can be quite timid, which attracts the scammers, so I flip the script on them. When they try something -- and you'll rarely be approached by people NOT scamming you -- I have fun with them. They quickly get that I know what they're up to, and the psychological advantage they often have is lost. The trick is to never suspend your judgment because you're in an unfamiliar place; *sharpen* it, and realize that no matter where you are, YOU own your immediate space. That's why they say projecting confidence is effective in discouraging scammers.
I have been to paris once, they have the most beggers and scammers i had ever seen. I did not like it there, they take away all the joy from a citytrip, you never feel relax. I will never ever go there a second time.
@@valeriukko9431 Yes, you demonstrated that you can; but why? Obviously the use of one non-matching cup, lowers the odds of losing the game. The con artist would be helping the victim. That's why I laughed out loud when I saw it. It looked comical.
Great video. I am going to Paris in May and will wear a money belt and sling bag. BUT, I'm also going to have a "decoy" wallet hanging from my back pocket. It will be loaded with play money and a smiley emoji inside. Can't wait.....
no: be clear when you're engaging in a commercial transaction (cafe, restaurant, official (police, tourist bureau) interaction), straightforward and open to your need to have them explain. versus informal interactions ("can I help you?" "are you trying to get to...?", especially "let me offer you...") -- they're always potential scams. the minute you're not sure what you're signing up for, ask for an explanation, tell them you're not interested, look for a gendarme. seriously, what would you do in your home town? "hey dude, want a lottery ticket? my friend couldn't use it, but..." blah blah blah. at best, you're buying something that's not worth much. at worst, it's a Nigerian prince asking you to give him your account number. these skills aren't just for tourists: if you're on-line at all, you need to have some awareness of what scammers are likely to be trying.
As a tourist in Paris, some of these scams happened to me, but when I started living there, I never had any problems at all. It’s like these criminals can smell whether you are a resident or not. But according to this video, I can imagine that things have actually gotten worse since I used to live in Paris twenty years ago… (I moved to the south of France and never returned to the capital ever after…)
Used to cross Paris on the way from Scotland to the South of France and my French dad couldn't get out quickly enough as he hated it. Nice, Cannes, Antibes..... yes, beautiful.
@@lavachekikri -- one thing I've consistently heard, is that pickpockets and scam artists and other criminals are really good at telling who's a tourist, an easy target. most clear-cut example: in NYC, if you're looking up around you at the buildings, every pickpocket within three blocks is going to head your way, because you are (a) obviously not a street-smart New Yorker, so (b) you're obviously going to be easy to rob. probably the same in Paris and London and Rome. also, once you're even a little street-smart, you know without thinking about it what side-streets to avoid, when to cross the street to avoid a cluster of young men, when to check around you for a police station or a newspaper kiosk, how to find possible resources. you didn't need to have those skills in your home town, because you knew to avoid the iffy parts of town. well now you're abroad, and you have to figure it out in more detail. this video helps.
Franco-American French mother American father US army I do live in France. You did a great job on your video, can I just a add a few things get a handbag with a zipper or a big flap that fold over the bag, and place the flap nearest you, and do keep one hand on your bag at all time hang cross over your body this is much hard to steal or pickpocket, but do hand your phone out of seight (if your phone is seen your a mark)! Do not stop to talk to people on the street if your lost ask a cop or go to a store to get help never shake the hand of anyone you don't already know why because the gold ring is in his hand, and do note scammers never work alone no high heels flat shoes only: You get stop turn around a walk away do not talk just move yes even to say no with your accent will put a mark on you stand your grond NO means NO and walk away! American ladies keep your head up eyes forward far in front of you look at your male scammer this is not a come-on his one, and only job to scam you, and it is your job to not let him scam you look at him I understand it is not lady like, but this is France not the states Sophie is European street-wise one smart lady subscriber to her given a thumbs up why because she is good at this!
love "scammers never work alone." and the awareness that 'polite behavior' for your upbringing can mark you as a victim in some settings, so you need to learn to give different signals. takes some practice.
Had the clipboard scam last spring. Said they were collecting for a school for the deaf. As someone who uses asl, I gave them some euros, later thought it was a bogus operation. Turned out to be one….
I am sure a lot of these hustlers will approach a young and attractive girl because they assume you are on your bucket list, don't speak the language, often on your mobile and therefore an easy target....be safe and alert. We avoid tourist locations in high season... not so crowded.
Oh dear! I have enthused over their kindness, very loudly, and walked off with the flowers. I did not know it was a scam..no wonder they looked shocked. It works because they don't want the police arriving.
Paris, beautiful neighborhoods like ours here in Greece, i noticed a logo of amstel beer(greek) on a building Love to all French people from a Greek one, always welcome to our country!
@@kostantismp3704 Amstel Brewery is a Dutch brewery founded in 1870 on the Mauritskade in Amsterdam. The name comes from the Amstel River in Northern Holland. In 1963 Amstel opened breweries in Puerto Rico and Greece.
It's good you do these videos to educate tourists. Still someone should educate the government and police about how to stop these scams. Such scams happen in poor, politically unstable countries where there is breakdown of rule of law. However, France is among of a handful of developed countries where tourist scams contribute perhaps as much to GDP as legitimate tourism. That is the reason I would personally never go to France as a tourist. I would prefer to go to Amsterdam or Singapore instead. It is not that crime or fraud never happens there but it snot the norm in those places unlike it is in Paris. The government and police can very easily stop this if they want to but I guess they are also part of the underground scam enterprise.
@@bsrpython257 A lot of truth to that, however, if you think the scammers are all of a certain type, you will get scammed by the vast majority of scammers that look just like you. Scammers come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. And a lot even have posh accents, wear nice clothes, and look very wealthy.
Hello, Good tips! But I do have to say your phone just worn by a string like a piece of jewelry in front of your body ...could just be cut and taken with one quick swoop. I''m from NY and in New York City, no one would ever "wear" their phone this way...that is a sure sign your a tourist, or on a day trip, and is an invitation to take the phone.
Rome is The Worst, one is sexualy groped on the buses and scammed everywhere. I had a cross body bag but guys on a scooter grabbed it and i was thrown down. Hip badly damaged. Lost my bag and camera, pictures and money. There is empty baggage left in the streets when they have picked through the contents. disgusting.I hate Rome.
@@joseeallyn9950 Gosh that's really terrible. I can see why you have such feelings about it. Such a pity, Rome is amazing, especially in the off season.
I was a victim of pick pocket in the Paris metro way back in 2003. It was a crowded train and the guy who boarded behind me just as the train was about to move kicked my purse and it was lost forever
You don't know me ,but as a french , i may be very helpful if you're lost or in trouble.So, you're not asking anything from me? Then, stay at home, more secure.
That's ridiculous. Rather, don't talk to anyone who seems either shady or suspiciously friendly. I.e. just use common sense and good caution. No need to be paranoid.
@@MrSebfrench76 -- lovely perspective. I hope I do talk to you. just, as soon as I feel like the person I'm talking to is trying to convince me of something, I need to be more cautious and aware. but yes, the whole point of travelling is being able to talk to people like you. thank you for being someone who will talk to people like me!
I was reached by pickpocket in the metro. They were so fast and organized. By the time you noticed your wallet was gone. It was in the hand of the other guy by the exit. So, be very careful about traveling.
@@Neicorr 1) And why do you need cash? 2) However Not all G7 cabs will take cards (Scam within a Scam)! 3) Learn to use the Metro! And if you get a bad vibe anywhere take the next car.
My moms friend got scammed flower shop. One guy asking her questions about flowers while another guy going through her backpack took her wallet. Distraction theft
A man tried the gold ring scam on us near the Eiffel Tower. I started laughing and yelled hey it is the ring scam, the guy turned and ran away! Also, same trip, my teenage son got trapped by a gypsy woman in the square in front of the Notre Dame and he kept yelling (in English), no I don’t speak English as she tried to tie a friendship bracelet on him. Kinda funny, but I was quite annoyed by the two scams. Which we had read about in the Rick Steves guide book.
Please watch out for the trick of jamming the door of the metro while an accomplice steals your wallet / valuables. It happened to me. 😱🥺😬 My money, credit card, debit card, id cards etc etc were all gone. Don’t stand close to the doors when getting off, and avoid getting close to people when getting on !!! It all happens so fast !!!
Even the companies scam you legally. Usually they charge you for delivering no service, or bad service. And they lie to you to pay the higher price. And when you rent, watch out for signs, as the apartment might have bed bugs, that you can carry back to your home. No landlord and no rent company will tell you that they have bugs here! This is Paris!
Paris is ranked the 10th in a list of the more dangerous cities in Europe. Marseille, Montpelier, Grenoble, Nantes, Nice and Lyon- then 7 french cities- are also ranked in the first 15! 7 out of 15!!! I’m french and it’s not a coincidence... France, and specially Paris (where I lived in the last 90s, first 00) is no longer the special city used to be anymore. Just remember the CL final, was an awful image... Anyway, besides Neuilly (where I lived, but you will be as safe as really bored), avoid north/east (X, XVIII, XIX...) and stay at VII Gros-Caillou side or XIV Luxembourg side. And of course, eyes wide open and try to travel or visit with friends or more people.
Seems a major tip to assist travelers is to provide a description of those who are most likely to pick your pocket. Are you too PC to point out the obvious?
this is wonderful! MUCH better than actually going to Paris: all the scams, all the scenery and atmosphere and music, no need to actually have my pocket picked and spend a day with the Surete or the American embassy. a true public service. merci beaucoup! watch the Olympics online!
Cup and Ball can be dangerous. If you are quick enough to pick the right cup and keep a hand on it so that the man cannot remove the ball or swap the cups, he will pay, but ten meters away a gang of three-four people will ask the money back and they are no joke. Another scam is the taxi-bike. Some show a fix price, not mentioning that it is per person. Although most drivers are fair, only the French ones can possibly comment the places you go through.
the essence of a lot of scams is, if you think you can get something for nothing, then you're going to get scammed. and in that sense, it's your own fault: you were greedy, and they used that to suck you in to their scam.
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Thank you so much for watching! For more detailed written explanations, check out my full written guide: www.solosophie.com/5-parisian-tourist-scams-to-avoid/
I was in Paris in April, and was short-changed in a café by €10 when paying for a coffee with a €20 note. I immediately challenged the guy, and could tell from his reaction that it was deliberate. Short-changing tourists is quite common in Paris.
Even with credit cards. Take your time when you pay.
Same happens in London watch some foreigners buying a cup of tea with a 50 pound note from the stalls somewhere near Hyde Park and they got about £1.50 change
Best thing to do if you’re a tourist is to be able to have an experienced person with you, preferably someone who can speak French. For females you should carry a whistle with easy access - blowing that will get everyone’s attention and scammers usually run away..
As a former world traveler my advice is do not accept any one who approaches you first ever
I only use anti-pickpocket bags with straps and sides that can’t be cut, and pockets that zip close, with zipper tabs that clip for use in crowds. I buy Travelon brand but there are others. The pink bag in this video looks much less secure.
Also, instead of dangling my phone in plain sight like that, I keep mine in a special closed pouch attached to my purse strap, and use my wrist strap when I need it as I walk around.
Finally, I recommend getting a smart watch that mirrors your phone for following directions or taking calls etc. so you pull out your phone the least possible.
It’s all about making yourself less of a target and using your street sense. (I’m a 74-year-old woman and travel alone, including to Paris, and haven’t been robbed yet, knock on wood!)
I have just bought a Travelon on Amazon for a trip to Paris, they look great.
Great advice, I was presented with a gold ring and then asked for money in return for keeping the ring. I said no and she was insistent that she did not have a passport and needed money to get back to her own country. I had to place the ring on the back of her hand as she refused to take it back. The other one was, I was across the way from Moulin Rouge when approached by a Madam??? She was VERY PERSISTENT but when I said oh look a police car she was like a magician poof disappeared and I mean she was gone just like the Phantom. Great Video Thank you.
They nearly got me with the ticket scam. He was dressed very well and appeared very friendly. Just like a typical commuter. When he tried to hand me a ticket my gut told me this was strange and I just quickly walked away and went into the nearest shop.
It was quite scary as I wasn’t sure if he was in a gang.
My biggest tip in this situation is to not saying anything and quickly walk away and walk into the nearest store or cafe.
Warning! If you are renting an apartment with street views, chances are you are renting a known apartment that just might be under watch by the bad guys, waiting for you to leave for the day! Fully secure the door and be creative where you put your valuables!
Ugh, I was wondering about apartments and airbnb's....
Omgggg! This is scary af
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Beware of leaving roof windows open too it's very easy to walk across a roof and drop in
Bro what the fvvck .... thanks for this
Yes - thanks for the video. I got caught with the gold ring scam about 6 years ago. Still feel foolish and annoyed about it. My son had his pocket picked too but he could see it happening - he has a black belt in Aikido and gave the pickpocket a lesson in consequences. That could have been a problem though. Same kind of stuff happened in Prague where a couple of bogus ticket inspectors made big threats until I handed over a "fine" for a supposedly dodgy tram ticket. Sad that beautiful cities like these are being polluted by such rubbish.
Fantastic video! Excellent tips to avoid pick pockets. Loved ❤ it! Thank you Sophie!
magnificent effort, 𝗟𝗘𝗫𝗪𝗜𝗗𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗦 -I'm pleased you're merchandising with these guys. We must take all backstop to protect the elderly and the general public from these heinous con artists!
You deserve it!! Brother, you deserve the highborn Peace Prize for keeping us safe.
My sister was given €3000 by a scammer to buy a Gucci bag under the pretence that the shop had refused to sell them the bag and they really wanted it. So my sister agreed but when she got up to the counter to buy the bag, the money was gone. The scammers were waiting outside the shop and were going to accuse her of stealing the money so luckily my mother asked the shop assistant to ring the police, the police arrived and whisked my sister and mother to the police station and after some interrogation released them without charge and far away from the scammers 😃
Let me guess the scammers had brown skin?
@@2138Dude Dude, if you think this, you will get scammed by the vast majority of scammers that look just like you. Scammers come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. And a lot even have posh accents, wear nice clothes, and look very wealthy.
Why did she agree to buy it? I would have said no immediately.
@@stephenbanks5952 I agree, normally she would but as she was a huge designer brand fan at the time, she was like a rabbit blinded by the headlights!!
@@agritech802 Ha ha. That explains it. Good that they didn't get into any trouble for it.
Thanks! These are great tips -
Surely all of those apply to pretty much every major city throughout Europe ? Wherever there are tourists there are scams, and most of them are just variations on each other.
I suspect (i.e. I don't really have any idea) that Americans (and Brits?) think of the French as over-dramatic but essentially kind -- "like us." so we're going to be less on our guard. Germans, likewise. Italians? not quite as trustworthy. and other countries? "I'm surrounded by criminals!" so we (might) be more on our guard.
still, it's very useful to see tips about when to be on your guard, and how to be on your guard.
@@outsidethegarden It is all the foreign criminals with their own scamming traditions.
There is a different in scale though, and it is quite common to see these scams in action.
I was aware of the gold ring scam, and had it pulled on me, and saw it on two other occasions on one visit.
Beggars sat at ATMs went from pretty rare in 2010 to every other machine in some areas by 2018. D
One of the recent scams is when staff at a cafe where you order and pay at the counter add a tip without asking if you wish to tip (and why would you??). It's not losing a few euros that would annoy me, it's the fact that someone stole it from me and got away with it.
De Gaulle outlawed tipping by adding the service fee in the bill. No tipping. you will have already paid the 10% or whatever it is now.
the string wrist scam thing at the base of the sacre couer is a very dark and unwelcome thing
All of these various harassments (rose, ring, bracelets) only seem to exist because the victims are unwilling to forcefully push back. I had an African try to grab my arm (which is assault) at Sacre Coure, which led to me becoming extremely aggressive and started cussing him out. We got in a screaming match and it attracted a lot of attention. If everyone did this, it would stop.
But you were made emotionally upset and it ruined your day!
Only advisable if there are regular people around that can be alerted by the noise. If the area is deserted. Avoiding being cornered and moving away is the best action. Going the aggressive route can only escalate.
Yes. Screaming is good! people think they are hurting you.
You have totally convinced me. I now have no desire to go to Paris, or other major cities in Europe, where such things frequently happen. MORE THAN JUST SAYING...
Try to get over your fears. You only have one life and it would be a terrible waste for you to avoid the rest of this marvellous world and then die regretting that “you didn’t do this or you didn’t do that” etc..
Even Helsinki (in its very historical centre) is not completely safe, so how this adorable "Paris guide" may still insist that Paris is "as safe as my home town" ?!!!...
@@philtucker1224 Crowds of world's distinguished idiots circulate around "tour d'eiffel" and similar "touristically sticky" places, and .... logically scamners made such places their own work fields ... Almost nobody of agitated idiots attend e.g. the greatest ever Museum-of-The- Great-Army, and, respectively, no scammers are present near this museum, that has (in my modest opinion) a higher value, than Louvre.
@@valeriukko9431 live long and prosper Val 🖖
These things are not new. Read some Dickens, or Petronius...
Fantastic advice thank you very much
Thanks for the heads up!
Years ago, while in Paris, I was walking along, and a car stopped by the curb. The driver leaned out with a map and tried to ask me, a tourist, directions to some place. He was rather rough looking, as was his male companion. I figured they were going to do a watch and bag grab, so I merely stayed out of grab range and commented how did they expect an obvious tourist to know where they wanted to go was. To say the least, their reaction was rather negative, and they rapidly drove off. Ah, yes, the adventures of being a tourist in Paris. Now let me tell you about Rome. Once while walking . . . . .
Thank you for posting this helpful video
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the tips. I'm pretty street smart but a refresher was welcome as I'll be in Paris soon. Had the pick pocket attempt in the Rome subway, got pinned in the corner at the doors by a gang then felt someone trying to unzip my pocket. I just called out "PICKPOCKET"! then charged out off there bumping them and pushing then out off my way. They swore at me in Italian then they all got off at three next stop. They had my pocket zip half opened before I caught them.
I tell everyone get the f away from me😂
They have pickpockets all over where tourist are best to keep your money under your clothing and be aware of your environment .
If you got pinned by a gang in the subway you're not too streetsmart.
They were most probably gypsies. How did they ever survive WW2? Uncle Ady did not finish the job.
Carry a shiv
Love your videos. Informative and well presented ❤
Thank you for watching! :)
The whole town is a total tourist trap, the city should be called ripoff. Get ripped off in the taxi from the airport, go have a meal and get ripped off, why bother going at all...
You don't know what you are talking about, but please, do stay away!
As said in the video official taxis won't rip you off on the airport trip. Their waiting stations are clearly marked and huge billboards with the fixed prices to Paris are posted right next to it and in several places inside the airport. There are actually 2 prices. One for the north side of the Seine and one for the south side. And they are not allowed to fish for clients.
If they do any wrong they can lose their taxi licence which cost them an actual fortune.
The people who chase clients are fake taxis.
How do you stop little kids pick pocketing you especially on the subway?
No way to stop them. Make sure you empty all your pockets and ask them if it's enough.
@@curtc4918 Those Gypsies could be locked in a KZ.
Take the ring, throw it into the Seine river and ask: "What ring?"
Good one.
Many of these scams also exist in the Hollywood streets where large groups of tourists visit. The city where I encountered the most scammers was the French Quarter of New Orleans. I had scammers targeting me every few minutes. It was exhausting and I avoid going there now, even if it’s for business.
So common knowledge and the same as it is in all big City’s 😊 just teasing great job keep it up🤘😎
I must give off "don't bother with this guy" vibes as none of these have ever happened to me in Paris or any other European city despite having visited many times. Maybe it's because I grew up and have lived and worked in NYC and project that "don't mess with me" attitude since it's never happened to me here either. And I'm not a rude person as all, just vigilant and observant. Or perhaps just lucky. 😉
I was going to say… “Are you from NYC?” (a fellow NYer… 🍎🍎🍎)
well, and being a guy makes you less attractive to a scam. though it doesn't protect you against pickpockets. but yeah, "vigilant and observant" = "not worth bothering with."
Just giving off the vibe "I'm not a dumbass American tourist" will save you much grief.
@@curtc4918 lol, let me know how us Americans can stop giving off that vibe. it's kind of bred into us. look at our politics.
@@outsidethegarden I actually don't come across as a typical American, e.g. impatient, to the point, entitled, overly confident, etc, perhaps because I wasn't born in the US, perhaps because it's just how I am, but I have lived most of my life here so I have some American qualities. But wherever I am, I try to imagine that I'm from there, if only in my own head, and adapt to the local pace and mentality as best as I can, and it seems to work. Helps to be observant.
I actually got robbed by a taxi driver and uniformed police officer working together outside Gare deLyon Paris!
"like" feels really inappropriate. very sorry that happened to you!
I (a woman) found my jean's zipper unzipped when I got off the metro. It was very crowded and people close by were looking on in horror but I didn't know why until I got out of the car.
glad it didn't escalate from that. sorry it happened to you!
Many years ago a pick pocket tried to get into my back pack at the Eiffel tower, turned round and slapped him, than the tourist “ scales” fell from eyes, and you see all the shady characters hanging around there. I still carry a backpack, but the zip part is actually on the backside, so next to my back. I travel all over the world but even in “ safe” countries always be aware of your surroundings and people around you.
Some useful safety and security tips here for those in the UK!
Paris taxis always want an outrageous fixed price no matter where you are. I gave up on them as they always refused to turn their meters on. I just used Uber in the end.
This is why Uber has succeeded. Traditional taxi services have made themselves irrelevant in so many places due to monopolistic attitude. They have only themselves to blame to have lost their market.
Merci beaucoup pour l' information
bravo to you, 𝗟𝗘𝗫𝗪𝗜𝗗𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗦 for your tremendous devotion to fighting these bogus persons. The safety and well-being of the elderly and the larger bunch should be our main priority, and you have demonstrated unflappable dedication to defending them from these despicable con artists. You certainly deserve recollection for your extraordinary work!!!!
I stayed in Paris for a couple of weeks back in October and fortunately nothing happened to me. Though this video provided me with scam information I didn't know about. Thanks :)
Glad that your trip to Paris went smoothly. Thanks for watching!
Get on a tour bus. See everything. Go home quick.
Wow, I don’t think I want to go to Paris….
During my 40+ years of being an international construction manager I have past through, spent time or past through many of the world's capitals. When people in know well and respect give me advice I usually listen. Many have advised me to give Paris a pass. Some say the people of Paris are rude, other told me of getting cheated or charge ridiculous prices at bars and restaurants. I have passed through Paris many time even crossed the city going to
Sorry pressed the wrong button on my mobile: going to Orly Airport from Charles de Gaulle airport but never going into the city of Paris. Due to the advice of many people.
However now retired and living in Thailand I have been planning to take my son to see the 24 hour La Mans race. Hope I can find a tour company that can arrange to pick me and my son up at a airport in Paris and take us straight to La Mans put us in a hotel for 2 or 3 days and then back to a airport in Paris for a flight back to Bangkok. I really have no desire to spend any more time than I have to in Paris.
Overall I think the name of the city is irrelevant. It’s the same in any city or tourist trap in the world where thousands of visitors cluster together in tight groups. Pickpocketing is just another of the oldest industries in the world. The country itself makes no difference to that…
I had a guy hand me something and then demand money for it, so I said "Sorry, it's mine now." He followed me for a couple of blocks, and I kept turning and smiling at him.
that takes some balls. go you!
for less-bold tourists, "no thank you" and keep moving, ideally to a shop or somewhere the police are likely to be.
@@outsidethegarden Having travelled a lot, I've noticed the obvious - but avoidable - fact that when in foreign environments people can be quite timid, which attracts the scammers, so I flip the script on them. When they try something -- and you'll rarely be approached by people NOT scamming you -- I have fun with them. They quickly get that I know what they're up to, and the psychological advantage they often have is lost. The trick is to never suspend your judgment because you're in an unfamiliar place; *sharpen* it, and realize that no matter where you are, YOU own your immediate space. That's why they say projecting confidence is effective in discouraging scammers.
Biggest scam in Paris is the expensive prices in the shops and the low quality they offer
If you find only low quality you did not go to the right place. She has other videos on where to go, close but outside tourist traps.
where is your phonecase shoulder strap from?
Curious too, around wrist or neck?
Casetify
I have been to paris once, they have the most beggers and scammers i had ever seen.
I did not like it there, they take away all the joy from a citytrip, you never feel relax.
I will never ever go there a second time.
I can't believe you demonstrated the cup and ball scam with cups that don't match!
I can.
@@valeriukko9431 Yes, you demonstrated that you can; but why? Obviously the use of one non-matching cup, lowers the odds of losing the game. The con artist would be helping the victim. That's why I laughed out loud when I saw it. It looked comical.
@@krismctopher7that was funny indeed..
It is strange that with today technology, cameras everywhere, we still have pickpocket problem.
True - they are very good, and even good cameras can't see their sleight of hand.
Beware! My wife had her purse picked in the Louvre.
Great video. I am going to Paris in May and will wear a money belt and sling bag. BUT, I'm also going to have a "decoy" wallet hanging from my back pocket. It will be loaded with play money and a smiley emoji inside. Can't wait.....
So, long story short, just ignore and avoid people you don't know there.
In general...
By essence , you know nobody in a foreign contry.. So, no interaction with us, french locals?
@@MrSebfrench76 Nope, begone scammer!
🤣😂
Clear : dont go in shops or restaurants, dont visit anything, dont talk to people…. Actually the best way to do it is not to come to France…
no: be clear when you're engaging in a commercial transaction (cafe, restaurant, official (police, tourist bureau) interaction), straightforward and open to your need to have them explain. versus informal interactions ("can I help you?" "are you trying to get to...?", especially "let me offer you...") -- they're always potential scams. the minute you're not sure what you're signing up for, ask for an explanation, tell them you're not interested, look for a gendarme.
seriously, what would you do in your home town? "hey dude, want a lottery ticket? my friend couldn't use it, but..." blah blah blah. at best, you're buying something that's not worth much. at worst, it's a Nigerian prince asking you to give him your account number.
these skills aren't just for tourists: if you're on-line at all, you need to have some awareness of what scammers are likely to be trying.
How about when anyone approaches you is a scammer
Merci de ces informations! 😀
I used to live in Paris and I never had any problem with pickpockets. So what happened to the city?
As a tourist in Paris, some of these scams happened to me, but when I started living there, I never had any problems at all. It’s like these criminals can smell whether you are a resident or not. But according to this video, I can imagine that things have actually gotten worse since I used to live in Paris twenty years ago… (I moved to the south of France and never returned to the capital ever after…)
Used to cross Paris on the way from Scotland to the South of France and my French dad couldn't get out quickly enough as he hated it.
Nice, Cannes, Antibes..... yes, beautiful.
When there were cash parking meters, many thieves emptied those; since they're now card only meters they've had to find other ways...
@@lavachekikri -- one thing I've consistently heard, is that pickpockets and scam artists and other criminals are really good at telling who's a tourist, an easy target. most clear-cut example: in NYC, if you're looking up around you at the buildings, every pickpocket within three blocks is going to head your way, because you are (a) obviously not a street-smart New Yorker, so (b) you're obviously going to be easy to rob. probably the same in Paris and London and Rome.
also, once you're even a little street-smart, you know without thinking about it what side-streets to avoid, when to cross the street to avoid a cluster of young men, when to check around you for a police station or a newspaper kiosk, how to find possible resources. you didn't need to have those skills in your home town, because you knew to avoid the iffy parts of town. well now you're abroad, and you have to figure it out in more detail. this video helps.
Franco-American French mother American father US army I do live in France. You did a great job on your video, can I just a add a few things get a handbag with a zipper or a big flap that fold over the bag, and place the flap nearest you, and do keep one hand on your bag at all time hang cross over your body this is much hard to steal or pickpocket, but do hand your phone out of seight (if your phone is seen your a mark)! Do not stop to talk to people on the street if your lost ask a cop or go to a store to get help never shake the hand of anyone you don't already know why because the gold ring is in his hand, and do note scammers never work alone no high heels flat shoes only: You get stop turn around a walk away do not talk just move yes even to say no with your accent will put a mark on you stand your grond NO means NO and walk away! American ladies keep your head up eyes forward far in front of you look at your male scammer this is not a come-on his one, and only job to scam you, and it is your job to not let him scam you look at him I understand it is not lady like, but this is France not the states Sophie is European street-wise one smart lady subscriber to her given a thumbs up why because she is good at this!
love "scammers never work alone." and the awareness that 'polite behavior' for your upbringing can mark you as a victim in some settings, so you need to learn to give different signals. takes some practice.
Is it really as bad as you make out?
Had the clipboard scam last spring. Said they were collecting for a school for the deaf. As someone who uses asl, I gave them some euros, later thought it was a bogus operation. Turned out to be one….
Some of these scamming tactics are also found in Italy like in Rome and Naples
I am sure a lot of these hustlers will approach a young and attractive girl because they assume you are on your bucket list, don't speak the language, often on your mobile and therefore an easy target....be safe and alert. We avoid tourist locations in high season... not so crowded.
the clipboard scam happened to me at the louvre ! last may right in front of the Pyramid.
Oh dear! I have enthused over their kindness, very loudly, and walked off with the flowers. I did not know it was a scam..no wonder they looked shocked. It works because they don't want the police arriving.
Paris, beautiful neighborhoods like ours here in Greece, i noticed a logo of amstel beer(greek) on a building
Love to all French people from a Greek one, always welcome to our country!
But Amstel beer is Dutch?
@@JackF99 greek
@@kostantismp3704 Amstel Brewery is a Dutch brewery founded in 1870 on the Mauritskade in Amsterdam. The name comes from the Amstel River in Northern Holland. In 1963 Amstel opened breweries in Puerto Rico and Greece.
@@JackF99 ok bro i informed i thought it was greek. thnx for the info.
It's good you do these videos to educate tourists. Still someone should educate the government and police about how to stop these scams. Such scams happen in poor, politically unstable countries where there is breakdown of rule of law. However, France is among of a handful of developed countries where tourist scams contribute perhaps as much to GDP as legitimate tourism. That is the reason I would personally never go to France as a tourist. I would prefer to go to Amsterdam or Singapore instead. It is not that crime or fraud never happens there but it snot the norm in those places unlike it is in Paris. The government and police can very easily stop this if they want to but I guess they are also part of the underground scam enterprise.
Excellent. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Good advice
Personally experienced there of these attempted scams and they all had something in common….
I was looking in the comments for the word Gypsy or Roma.
Sad she won't point out an obvious safety tip to her viewers. So PC.
@@bsrpython257 Can't point out facts you know. Too racist.
@@bsrpython257 A lot of truth to that, however, if you think the scammers are all of a certain type, you will get scammed by the vast majority of scammers that look just like you. Scammers come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. And a lot even have posh accents, wear nice clothes, and look very wealthy.
The worse one I think is a taxi scam. You’re in a strange land, don’t know the area very well.
Hello, Good tips! But I do have to say your phone just worn by a string like a piece of jewelry in front of your body ...could just be cut and taken with one quick swoop. I''m from NY and in New York City, no one would ever "wear" their phone this way...that is a sure sign your a tourist, or on a day trip, and is an invitation to take the phone.
good video!
Thanks!
A week in Rome and I got all these scams. You just get so used to them.
Rome is The Worst, one is sexualy groped on the buses and scammed everywhere. I had a cross body bag but guys on a scooter grabbed it and i was thrown down. Hip badly damaged. Lost my bag and camera, pictures and money. There is empty baggage left in the streets when they have picked through the contents. disgusting.I hate Rome.
@@joseeallyn9950 Gosh that's really terrible. I can see why you have such feelings about it. Such a pity, Rome is amazing, especially in the off season.
I was a victim of pick pocket in the Paris metro way back in 2003. It was a crowded train and the guy who boarded behind me just as the train was about to move kicked my purse and it was lost forever
Don't talk to anybody you don't know.
You don't know me ,but as a french , i may be very helpful if you're lost or in trouble.So, you're not asking anything from me?
Then, stay at home, more secure.
That's ridiculous. Rather, don't talk to anyone who seems either shady or suspiciously friendly. I.e. just use common sense and good caution. No need to be paranoid.
@@MrSebfrench76 -- lovely perspective. I hope I do talk to you. just, as soon as I feel like the person I'm talking to is trying to convince me of something, I need to be more cautious and aware.
but yes, the whole point of travelling is being able to talk to people like you. thank you for being someone who will talk to people like me!
@@outsidethegarden I will talk to you with an exquisite pleasure.
Not just tourists, my wife's french relatives were victims of a pick pocket.
I would love to see scammers try to fool Penn Jillette with cups and balls :-)
Smart girl ❤
Very romantic and lovely city 😂
I was reached by pickpocket in the metro. They were so fast and organized. By the time you noticed your wallet was gone. It was in the hand of the other guy by the exit. So, be very careful about traveling.
Last year, at Trocadero, a female tourist lost 200 Euros before my eyes in the cup and ball scam
also known as "three-card monte," when it's using playing cards.
Scary! So glad that I'm not traveling.
I use the Papillon method for securing my cash. Never pay upfront!
@@Neicorr 1) And why do you need cash? 2) However Not all G7 cabs will take cards (Scam within a Scam)! 3) Learn to use the Metro! And if you get a bad vibe anywhere take the next car.
A gypsy kid walked up to me at an ATM and asked for my card so he could “help” me use the ATM 😂
My moms friend got scammed flower shop. One guy asking her questions about flowers while another guy going through her backpack took her wallet. Distraction theft
A man tried the gold ring scam on us near the Eiffel Tower. I started laughing and yelled hey it is the ring scam, the guy turned and ran away! Also, same trip, my teenage son got trapped by a gypsy woman in the square in front of the Notre Dame and he kept yelling (in English), no I don’t speak English as she tried to tie a friendship bracelet on him. Kinda funny, but I was quite annoyed by the two scams. Which we had read about in the Rick Steves guide book.
I didn't see any crime in London or Lisbon and I just came back from there
Please watch out for the trick of jamming the door of the metro while an accomplice steals your wallet / valuables. It happened to me. 😱🥺😬 My money, credit card, debit card, id cards etc etc were all gone. Don’t stand close to the doors when getting off, and avoid getting close to people when getting on !!! It all happens so fast !!!
Great tip! Unfortunately I have seen this a few times :( I'm sorry it happened to you!
In Vegas they fish empty water bottles out of the trash, fill them with tap water, and sell them to unsuspecting tourists.
You should show scammers so we can see what countries they came from. Certain groups prey the most.
Keep your hand still sometimes,hands are expressive when used correctly,but non stop movement is irritating
thanks!
Even the companies scam you legally. Usually they charge you for delivering no service, or bad service. And they lie to you to pay the higher price.
And when you rent, watch out for signs, as the apartment might have bed bugs, that you can carry back to your home. No landlord and no rent company will tell you that they have bugs here!
This is Paris!
Thats why I go to McDonalds and its bullshit that Paris is safe for tourists
Paris is ranked the 10th in a list of the more dangerous cities in Europe. Marseille, Montpelier, Grenoble, Nantes, Nice and Lyon- then 7 french cities- are also ranked in the first 15! 7 out of 15!!! I’m french and it’s not a coincidence... France, and specially Paris (where I lived in the last 90s, first 00) is no longer the special city used to be anymore. Just remember the CL final, was an awful image... Anyway, besides Neuilly (where I lived, but you will be as safe as really bored), avoid north/east (X, XVIII, XIX...) and stay at VII Gros-Caillou side or XIV Luxembourg side. And of course, eyes wide open and try to travel or visit with friends or more people.
5:09 You mean black African men right? Don’t be afraid to call them by their name!
As a Parisian, I would HATE to be a tourist in this city.
Save yourself the grief, it’s just another place, the world is literally full of them, you probably live in one and don’t even know it!
So what's the problem with the law not coming down on these people?
Very good video I was planning to go but better avoid.lot of bad experiences from friends.taking undocumented refugees has really aggravated the issue
Seems a major tip to assist travelers is to provide a description of those who are most likely to pick your pocket. Are you too PC to point out the obvious?
this is wonderful! MUCH better than actually going to Paris: all the scams, all the scenery and atmosphere and music, no need to actually have my pocket picked and spend a day with the Surete or the American embassy. a true public service.
merci beaucoup! watch the Olympics online!
Why would you go to the Embassy if your pocket is picked? They're not your daddy.
nice
String around arm, Cup & Ball, zzZzZz, same tricks in big European cities made by same type of people, surprisingly often from Romania...
Cup and Ball can be dangerous. If you are quick enough to pick the right cup and keep a hand on it so that the man cannot remove the ball or swap the cups, he will pay, but ten meters away a gang of three-four people will ask the money back and they are no joke.
Another scam is the taxi-bike. Some show a fix price, not mentioning that it is per person. Although most drivers are fair, only the French ones can possibly comment the places you go through.
the essence of a lot of scams is, if you think you can get something for nothing, then you're going to get scammed. and in that sense, it's your own fault: you were greedy, and they used that to suck you in to their scam.
@@outsidethegarden The same old motor of all scams (Ponzi scheme, Nigerian Prince, ...) greedy people exploiting other people's greed.