If you have reviewed any social media reports about Italy in July, you should have heard about pickpockets on the streets targeting specifically visitors who’re not familiar with Italy.
Monica Poli, a Venice local, is bring awareness of the pickpockets and helping tourists keep their belongings safe. Poli said when she was interviewed that “We want to protect all of the tourists and let them know what is happening in Italy. If you are pickpocketed and you don’t go immediately to the police, the thief will stay free.”
Poli’s videos have spawned thousands of parodies and even a remixed TikTok song which she herself isn’t really a fan of, but nonetheless, Poli hopes more awareness can minimize harm and reduce tourists’ losses.
Pickpockets often search for and aim for travelers who are unaware and are carrying valuables such as cameras, expensive bags, and jewelry. Most visitors who are engrossed in their phone are also very likely to be pickpocketed. Tourists should try and maintain their distance with others to be safe. Storing your valuables in a hotel safe is also recommended, and if you are robbed, visitors can call 112.
As Gillian Longworth McGuire, a Venice-based travel writer, stated about when an individual is , “I have never seen someone get violent when called out, they usually run. But obviously, someone should only do what they feel safe doing.” A 2006 article by Slate says teenagers are frequent suspects, due to lighter criminal consequences. As Poli stated, pregnant women are also likely to be pickpockets since they have a larger chance to receive shorter jail sentences than others to accommodate their health needs.
Poli has been posting videos to raise awareness to the issue of being pickpocketed in Italy. Poli stated “You are in Italy. You must respect the tourists.” Her efforts are paying off, and she is still making sure no one loses their possessions.
Monica Poli, a Venice local, is bring awareness of the pickpockets and helping tourists keep their belongings safe. Poli said when she was interviewed that “We want to protect all of the tourists and let them know what is happening in Italy. If you are pickpocketed and you don’t go immediately to the police, the thief will stay free.”
Poli’s videos have spawned thousands of parodies and even a remixed TikTok song which she herself isn’t really a fan of, but nonetheless, Poli hopes more awareness can minimize harm and reduce tourists’ losses.
Pickpockets often search for and aim for travelers who are unaware and are carrying valuables such as cameras, expensive bags, and jewelry. Most visitors who are engrossed in their phone are also very likely to be pickpocketed. Tourists should try and maintain their distance with others to be safe. Storing your valuables in a hotel safe is also recommended, and if you are robbed, visitors can call 112.
As Gillian Longworth McGuire, a Venice-based travel writer, stated about when an individual is , “I have never seen someone get violent when called out, they usually run. But obviously, someone should only do what they feel safe doing.” A 2006 article by Slate says teenagers are frequent suspects, due to lighter criminal consequences. As Poli stated, pregnant women are also likely to be pickpockets since they have a larger chance to receive shorter jail sentences than others to accommodate their health needs.
Poli has been posting videos to raise awareness to the issue of being pickpocketed in Italy. Poli stated “You are in Italy. You must respect the tourists.” Her efforts are paying off, and she is still making sure no one loses their possessions.
