Canary Islands & Tenerife WARNING! BEWARE OF THIS PROBLEM! ⚠️

[@laurentaylor4933]

Andrew ,please don't opologize for these warnings, they are much appreciated.The more people are aware of the tactics these scumbags are using the better.

[@ghengiscant538]

The scumbags also know, Lauren. That the average holidaymaker will gone in a week or two and be left with a negative view of their trip . Friend of mine had his wallet lifted with money, cards the lot .on the Metro , ( Costa del sol ) . He was sat down and never felt a thing . Stone cold sober as well .

[@tazzatamania]

Unfortunately it's across Europe now, I caught someone trying to dip my son's rucksack in Inca in Majorca. Happened in Spain and Malta too but fortunately nothing was taken.

[@mlchu8407]

Dont travel to Spain. What is the use of travelling to a destination and not feeling safe.

[@aberavon]

Another thing not mentioned, men, if you go to toilet someone will nug you while you are standing, that's when your wallet goes and your hands are busy.

[@lordbutler1]

People need to be aware of their surroundings. Perhaps I’m suspicious but your gonna need to get up early to trick me 👊

[@waynebateman9440]

I had a workmate who got mugged in Jamaica they caught them they got 10 years and a beating from the police they have zero tolerance to crime against tourists lessons to learn

[@KerryOki66]

Ja Make in it up ? 😂

[@nhamilton4399]

Unlike the punctuation lesson you skipped!😁

[@oxtailrice1582]

They value tourism as its where most the money comes into the country

[@MrSupercar55]

Wow! Jamaican police don’t mess around. Too bad the same cannot be said about British police.

[@rastaman5354]

@@nhamilton4399 he’s commenting on KZbin why on earth would he be worried about punctuation and spelling 🤣🤣

[@laurap4401]

I’m currently in La Palma now. Was in La gomera last week. Arrived in Tenerife on the 22nd April and within about 30 minutes my bag had been stolen. Passport, money, camera equipment, vape, ID, bank cards, glasses, contact lenses. All my important things. Rather than getting ready to go to La gomera the next day, I spent it at the police station, contacting my insurance, crying, calling my parents, replacing all my belongings. I’m travelling the islands alone as a young woman and I’ve never felt so violated knowing I was targeted and all my things are probably discarded along a roadside somewhere. Absolute sour start to my travels. Be careful

[@kimhamblin9669]

Well done Andrew me and my husband who are age in our mid 40 years old got pick pocket on a Tuesday ( beginning of February)in Costa adeje while we were waiting for a table at Moons restaurant entrance. We reported to the police the next day at the station and we couldn’t believe how many Brits were in there for the same reason. Keep highlighting it people need to know.

[@juliayang3879]

It's wise not to carry cash as we could pay by card and also a back pack..terrible!

[@jameswilson8820]

@@juliayang3879 Card isn't the Answer

[@sharingiscaring1952]

I caught someone trying to pick pocket my dad in Playa las americas in 2018. I was brought up on a council estate. So I plan pocket and money storage everywhere I go. Plus, I'm always scan 360 constantly.

[@juliayang3879]

@@sharingiscaring1952 very stressful to look around all the time, can't relax on holiday!😮‍💨

[@Tipsythomas]

I was on a lads hol there last October, 4 of the 20 of us were pick pocketed, 1 had his chains & watch nicked the rest their wallets. One of the lads was having a argument with who he though robbed him & while she was stood with us professing her innocence she tapped down my pockets. Men should always use a under clothes travel wallet like me. In that area stay away from the young African women, if you watch you'll see their not out for the night life.

[@mags4400]

We were in Tenerife in February and met up with some friends. Someone attempted to pick pocket them around the Oasis Centre on the Golden Mile. Fortunately they noticed and confronted the pickpocket who covered their face and ran away. My friend now puts a safety pin through the zip and then into the material of her bag. This stops someone trying to unzip a bag.

[@sandrac2]

Good idea

[@AuldIrishColleen123]

simple but very clever

[@catherinejones6250]

That's brilliant idea I will use that from now on x

[@georginagurney243]

Good idea!

[@joinjoy-ow7sb]

Hello my beautiful angel ❤❤❤

[@widerthanone]

The police know who’s doing this. I have seen the same two girls of Moroccan appearance between Los Cris and PDLA many times over a long period of time picking pockets expertly and when I warned a potential victim the got very close to, one of them gave me the middle finger salute. They have no fear of getting caught as the police simply lift them then drop them off around the corner. Southern Tenerife has been destroyed by them. As a very frequent visitor once, I have no plan on returning.☹️

[@JG-fv9bv]

Police are probably in on it , in the take

[@JG-fv9bv]

*on the take*

[@anaibarangan4908]

That's anywhere in Spain, especially if know that tourists frequent anywhere, I was pickpocketed three times during the time I lived in Spain. Once just waiting for a cab with my kids, once in a busy department store, probably on the escalator, and once in a good restaurant tavern, just leaving my purse hung on the side of the chair, but seriously target tourist places. Also be careful with backpacks. Make sure that don't have easy access. My backpack purses have inner leather ties, under the flaps. I tighten and tie a knot, that can't easily be undone. If only zippers, they get in and out quickly, even if waist packs if a crowded place, and see that distracted. First time I went to Spain as a teenager, my grandmother made me a cloth compartments type of under my bra wear, that tied with long wrap around flat cloth ribbons, and that's where I carried American Express traveler's checks used back then. Any important amounts of money. It was undetectable for thieves. All cotton so it didn't make me sweat. As soon as I arrived my family kept it safe, and gave me whatever I needed of it all, going to their bank with them to get them cashed.

[@EVERTONFC.]

It's the Roma & Albanians. Been doin it for 20 years.

[@albanianwolf316]

@@EVERTONFC.no it is your drunk people who do it

[@darrenwilkinson5343]

Please carry on with these videos Andrew Because people really need to know about the problems On the islands I definitely prefer to know what is happening

[@isobelmartin7377]

Glad you high light this problem Andrew. We have 2 holidays booked for Tenerife this year and I am worried. We had a near miss in the past, now don’t go out much at night. I know it happens on other Islands too but if authorities don’t take action soon it will put me off in future . I’d like to see Hotels drop charges for room safes too.

[@jameswilson8820]

Room safes are not as safe as you think look on KZbin and see how easy they are too get into

[@unamynes4561]

Well done Andrew for highlighting this topic it’s so important really feel sorry for the vulnerable people

[@jamesr5722]

This happened to me and my gf in Costa Adeje in October. Young foreign girl asking us to help her as she found a bag with all the stuff strewn out of it. I could tell straight away something was off and got us both away from her but she was a youngish girl and someone else could have easily fallen for it. Be vigilant.

[@helensparks7631]

Great reminder. With so many visitors watching you I'm sure you must be saving a few people from having their holiday ruined. It's so easy to switch off and relax on holiday and forget to take the usual precautions.

[@gthbtn]

The last time I was warned about pickpockets was on holiday with my ex and four friends in Gran Canaria. As a result we hired out the safe in the apartment and locked away spare cards, cash, passports and valuables... we went out about 10:30pm and returned at around 02:30. The apartment door had been opened and secured with a key, the safe removed and cards from the safe used at 11:10pm. What was odd was the apartment complex wanted the safe key back and were straight into the room minutes after we checked out to replace the safe - something our rep said was odd but insurance covered it. I wouldn't use the safe again, it's going in my front pocket. At least that way I'll have a thrill when they try and grab my personal items! 😂

[@peterkeenan3538]

Hi Andrew . A similar thing happened to me in Jandia Fuerteventura. Waiting in hotel reception for bus to take us to airport , with my rucksack next to me and my partner opposite me , the front of my bag had been opened , my WALLET taken out , the cash ( €75 and £100) then my wallet put back in my bag .I never thought it would ever happen to me , I thought I was switched on , aware of my surroundings. I'm an ex prison officer so thought my observations where good . Please everyone be aware!!!!!

[@mikepalmer6221]

My 80 year old father in law lost his wallet three weeks ago in Los Cristianos. A woman jumped out in front of him making a scene and waving her arms about. Whilst he was distracted someone took the wallet from his bag. Thanks for raising this.

[@lilyedwards9861]

Yes that's how they tried to pick pocket me they bumped into my sister who was behind on sticks to deter him putting his hand in my bag

[@billg7205]

They'll fake a fight if they have to, in order to create a distraction to steal from people.

[@dementednun1175]

That's sick an 80 year old man sick ! Hope he is OK

[@groovydonkey]

I have been going to Gran Canaria for 40 years and never had anything like this happened to me, but I keep a couple of cards and some cash in my wallet when I go out, but always in my front pockets and very aware of people around me.

[@graciewatkins2016]

I am currently planning a family trip here (which we’re very excited about) but I’ve been looking up things to do and plan for and this is the first warning I’ve seen about this problem!! Thank you so much for the video, we will definitely be more careful and secure with our things ❤ so so glad I saw this before we left !!

[@TheKnightStrider]

Have fun!

[@darrenmeaning4132]

Thank you for highlighting this issue. I got pick pocketed using in Barcelona even though I was warned and vigilant. You don’t get told about the distraction technique, if I’d known about it I don’t think I would have fallen victim. As you say, beware the attractive girl that doesn’t look like a threat!

[@angierobinson5570]

Don’t apologise Andrew you can’t stress enough about it ! People need to be aware of this keep up the good work 👍🏻👏🏻

[@nicnak4475]

Watch out at the airport, bus station, or if you are waiting for a coach, especially with a crowd, my girl friend lost her money, credit cards etc and my bag was open but i only had water in it, didn't feel a thing, they are so quick and clever

[@stephlloyd-bibby5794]

Please don’t apologise Andrew, these vlogs are great and much appreciated, I know there are bag alarms that you can buy, and attach to your zip/bag, it’s sad when we have to think and buy stuff like the alarms, but it could save your holiday.

[@keithfricker9425]

Excellent advice Andrew and yes keep on keeping on about it. I worked in the holiday/leisure industry for 10 years here in the U K and we always said that people on holiday leave their common sense behind. They are relaxed and walking around in a strange place taking in the sights.

[@Monica-mg1et]

Excellent advice Andrew. These people are so clever when it comes to distracting people. A friend of ours had his genuine Rolex watch taken off his wrist in a bar in Las Americas at Christmas. Had to get a crime number for his insurance & couldn’t get through to the Police phone number. Rang out continuously. Eventually a neighbour of his who is a translator brought him to the police station. She told him they purposely don’t answer the phone as they don’t want the crimes adding to their numbers. A lot of people get fed up trying to get through & forget about it & put it down to experience. My dad had his wallet taken last year & the distraction tactic was 1 person helping a driver to reverse out of a parking spot & stopped them walking past. Driver was crunching gears etc & delaying while the other guy took dads wallet. Stay safe & vigilant everyone. xx

[@paulhey5233]

You're dead right. I was pickpocketed, luckily fought back and got my wallet back which contained my bank card, driving license etc, although my money had been taken. The police weren't interested. I had to learn the hard way and put it down to experience as you say.

[@sharenfreeman7773]

Good I'm glad you put this out there Andrew, people need to know!! I wish more would happen to prevent it , horrible ruins good people's holidays

[@andrewjohnston9115]

Try Morracan immigrants, attacked my 16 year old Grandson (a bit naive maybe) on the main street in Correleo, tried to rob him, battered him, other people piled in to save him, be very aware when you're out and about, it's not great.

[@davidbott3826]

Well done Andrew for highlighting this , we all need to stay alert for these unfortunate practices and thanks to your warnings we can be more diligent when abroad in general as it's widespread across all the holiday spots across the world , but o feel your frustration at the lack of action from the local police etc . Thank you for these updates they are priceless 🙌🙌🙌

[@griswald7156]

I dont have a problem with pickpockets in the uk but with car parking charges everywhere your holiday money leaves your account fast enough,theres not much left for pickpockets even if they existed..

[@shazzavlogs]

Almost happened to me once in Fuerteventura where I used to live for 5 years (glad to be back in UK) got totally ripped off as a Spanish home owner) well anyway I noticed a change in the last 2 years in Canaries it’s definitely on the rise. I had some food shopping in the car I was going to go for a quick swim in the lovely town of Gran Tarajal I looked back glad I did and the fckr somehow had approached and unlocked the boot of my rental car. I went back he ran off empty handed, luckily nothing taken although around 50 euro of food mainly cat food lol he would of enjoyed that but so petty, jeees.

[@shanon72327]

I am considering moving to Fuerteventura. Any recommendations/suggestions/warnings? I'd appreciate it. Thank you!

[@gazzaedwards1268]

Nobody has really said, are these criminals Spanish, Eastern European, Africans or what , sometimes identifying their suspected nationality helps because innocent people can be more aware if approached by such peoples.

[@albyleelee1407]

Just returned home from los Cristianos and returning in June. Thanks for that valuable info. We would not have thought pickpockets would do that. Many tourists would tell the woman her bag was open, not thinking they were a target for the pickpockets. Always follow your vlogs. Your dad is also star! 😊👍 H&A from Liverpool

[@Dave67reid]

I think everyone appreciates your advice, sounds like the tourist board dont want to admit there is a problem and think putting warning signs would stop tourists going to these area's

[@lawrenceevans7825]

We were in Oz recently and they put the culprits on video footage on screens within the shopping centre! In my view it’s a good message & a deterrent for the vermin👍👍

[@henrywarr2921]

I had my phone stolen out my pocket in las americas, 2nd night. 5 days with no phone, boarding passes and everything on there. Nightmare!!

[@virtualworldsbyloff]

By the way, you don't need to carry more than 20€ on you, is Spain and a Touristy area, not Morocco, Cards work in most venues...

[@helenmccafferty4436]

Hi Andrew thank u for making people aware.Im just back from Tenerife. Iv been goin there this past 12 years and always very aware when out and about.This year I got pick pocketed on the golden mile 350 euro my glasses and credit card gone.Had small bag and holding on to strap close to me and I really don't know how it happened as it was quiet and no one approached me.Very professional felt nothing. So take care everyone

[@allisonbriggs1861]

Thanks for the warning. Unfortunately it happens everywhere. Sister and brother-in -law were in a supermarket in Majorca when they were asked a question about yogurts for a diabetic by a foreign company. Shortly afterwards brother-in-law realised his wallet was gone.

[@annekristiansen5464]

It is good that you continue the warnings. Obviously it's needed. Personally I have never in my 24 years as a tourist in Tenerife experienced robbery or car theft, but I always pay for a safe deposit box in the apartments, and always leave cards, passport and cash in there. Just taking with me the amount needed for the day/evening. When we hire a car, we never keep anything in the car, and alway make shopping as our last stop before going back to the hotel. When we go out we never uses hand bags or backpacks. Just a very small wallet where the hotel key card and some cash fits in, phone in our front pocket or in our hands . When going to the beach or pool, we only take sunscreen, towel and 20 euros for snacks with us together with water. Never phones, wallets or other stuff. Never put your mobile phone or wallet accessible in your back pocket. Always in your hand or front pocket, so you have control of it. that is my advice. I actually didn't know it was such a big problem until you started telling us all in your videos. Good job there Andrew 👍Makes us even more aware now 🙂

[@bambubombon]

very wise advice!!

[@joinjoy-ow7sb]

Hello my beautiful angel ❤❤❤

[@bambubombon]

@@joinjoy-ow7sb hello Joy!! yes, Bloki is a little angel... he's ready for his raw chicken wings in a bit 😀

[@steviefpv]

I’ve been coming Tenerife every year for the last 10 years at at least once a year maybe twice. Never encountered any trouble. I’m here now actually until Sunday then I’m back again in July.

[@toddsmith8608]

Anne, you wrote a novel on all the precautions you take to avoid getting robbed, then claim you didn't know getting robbed was a problem. Hmmm...

[@calderbrook2009]

I’m really glad your highlighting this because it’s seems to be a very big problem and sadly people aren’t realising until they fall victim themselves

[@doughaslehurst5108]

After having a slight problem only about €10 , I don't let strangers get close anymore. If they do I'm always on guard.

[@claremck7126]

Once bitten twice shy 🙁 Andrew that happened to us in Portugal we only take a small amount of cash out with us now it's great that you do these blogs Andrew my husband puts a mouse trap in my purse and that also works 🙂🙂

[@hayleygerbil3109]

I'm going to Majorca next month, it's been 5 years since I went on holiday and I've never been anywhere like Majorca. I'm a bit frightened now! I was going to buy a nice handbag from new look but I think I'm going to find a safe practical bag now! Glad I watched this video... Will have a trawl through your channel to see if you have any safety tip videos.

[@seanc5226]

Very well put together, I really feel sorry for anyone who's been a victim of this.

[@29brendus]

As someone who has travelled the world, including Tenerife, etc, good advice here on awareness, but I would advise you to only carry cash and leave your cards at the apartment and in a secure safe. Keep your cash limited, and spread it into all your pockets and shoes if you like, and leave your watch and phone if you can, [you won't die without it, and after all you are on holiday]. If your cash is robbed, you lose say 25% of it from one pocket, but if your cards are robbed, then you are in a world of shit. Never carry your passport with you. If you insist on carrying your cards, then get a chain secured wallet, and make sure you have backup cards in your holiday safe. Absolutely, be aware of the distraction scams.

[@stanwoody4988]

Why don´t the Spanish authorities punish pick pocketing more harshly. If the dips thought they would do five years on a conviction, it would give them pause. That´s why there are very few pick pockets in Orlando. You post signs for natural hazards like rip tides or sharks. You lock up thieves. If a thief ruins a $2,000 vacation, it is not a petty crime.

[@juliedickinson3263]

Well said Andrew something needs to be done about this issue. 👏. Not a day goes by without someone falling foul of these horrible people😡😡

[@eleanorandbrian210]

Thanks again Andrew for the excellent advice. I feel so sad for the couple who were robbed. It’s such a horrible crime committed by the lowest of the low. We’re always very careful when we are over but you just never know. Thanks again and have a lovely evening.😎☀️

[@aurorastar7127]

We were in our ground floor apartment in PDC. We had the bedroom window open for ventilation and we didn't see any issue with it open, as we were physically just outside the front or in the kitchen/sitting room area. Someone entered the window while we were here and stole cash.

[@Carolmorgan1972]

Thank you for this update, I always wear across the body bag and only take out what we need to and leave everything in the safe

[@sandrac2]

Think that is the best thing to do

[@tomfielder8973]

We noticed this sort of thing happen in the North when we were on a cruise. A young girl walked slowly in front of an old couple, two men walked closely behind and rifled through the ladies rucksack and pinched her purse. The weird part was, it was right outside the police station! They were gone done the backstreet before you could do anything!

[@josephinenkoyoyo319]

Thank you for highlighting this. I am about to set off for a family holiday, so its great that we have been warned in advance.

[@AaronOsome]

I was pickpocketed in Paris 5 years ago. I've never been back or want to

[@leapark01]

I always choose accommodation that has a safety deposit box. Take out only such cash, and a wee bit extra, that you think you'll need for the day.

[@dianrusev8976]

I am staying in Puerto Rico Gran Canaria. Every time I go downtown to a store or restaurant, I'm offered cocaine, marijuana, or hashish. Every time I leave the hotel they offer me drugs 2-3 times. it's very irritating, these people behave very brazenly and are most at ease among people.

[@surfindaddio]

Thanks for the warnings re the pickpockets. I’ve shared your video with my daughter who’s a travel agent in the UK and asked her to warn her clients. 👍

[@TheKnightStrider]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@SharonGelsthorpe-f3w]

Thank you so much for these warnings. I've been to Tenerife before, and knew there was a problem with theft using motorbikes, but these new ways I'd not heard of. We'll be in Tenerife in October, so this warning was well worth watching. Don't ever apologise for trying to keep people safe. Well done to you 👏 👏👏👏

[@Masterleechan]

I'm going in October too with a disability can't walk too good I hope I'll be ok

[@tobiasletch]

Used to LOVE Tenerife but last time we went I was pickpocketed and lady’s of the night approached my dad who’s in his 70s who tried to corner him and rob him. We go to Turkey now. Much safer

[@spidermann1256]

It's not just in the Canaries - we fell victim to a distraction tactic in Madrid a few years back. A bunch of young ladies were messing about in front of my wife on a street & we thought they just accidentally bumped into my wife. It wasn't until 10minutes or so later when she noticed that the zip on her handbag was partially open. You guessed it - they'd taken her purse, luckily she did not have much in it although the purse was of sentimental value. Another occasion was in Prague where we stayed in a very nice hotel near the Charles Bridge with our adult children. We were enjoying a nice drink in the hotel bar when my wife noticed the well dressed lady who was sat on the adjacent table with a shared bench seat with us had ever so slowly pulled our daughter's handbag in stages towards her, all the while talking into her phone. Luckily my wife noticed this & our daughter just kept her bag on the other side - the lady quietly got up & left some minutes later to try her luck elsewhere. I guess we just need to be vigilant & take precautions, as you say, without getting too neurotic about it.

[@blackhawk9590]

Thanks for the video and reminder it's far too easy to forget about these things when looking forward to your holiday, don't apologise for trying to help people have a good and safe holiday.

[@TheKnightStrider]

So true!

[@ptitcoquillage8581]

Thank you for warning us. I plan to spend a week holidays in Fuerteventura with a friend. We'll pay attention and keep an opened eye on who is surrounding us.

[@gapyearoldies6661]

You are an “ambassador” for Tenerife and are protecting holiday makers by making them aware of every scam going. We take your advice and just carry enough cash for the day and keep our cards safe. Just returned from Gran Canaria and they have signs warning of “pick pockets” and “trickies” so it can be done. Thank you.

[@gypojohn9871]

Thanks for this Andrew, very interesting indeed. Over the years of being on holiday in Bulgartia, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Tunisia, Turkey and others, I have a system. I NEVER take important documents, wallet, bank cards etc etc out with me on a day out. Only cash which is deposited in different pockets, bum bag and even (if in trainers)down each sock. This means that if I am robbed there is very little lost. I am glad to say that so far I have been lucky and never been robbed. I am 61 and also not the fittest any longer, so it is important to be aware of my surroundings and people although still relaxed and enjoying myself. I do believe that a lot of people who are robbed come from very safe places and are caught out by this alone. My lady friend who grew up and lived in a small German village for most of her life was completely naive about these kinds of things too. I have lived in many different places, countries and cities but this dose make me less of a target simply because I am old and grey. Thanks again Andrew, much appreciated.

[@hillarygroundwell2807]

Thanks Andrew.Also remember anyone with a bag even a padlock on it does not stop 2 people on a scooter slicing through the bag handle and taking it as they ride past as this happened to a friend.take care everyone 😀

[@Rain-uh4us]

Thanks for this absolutely thankful I myself was in my hotel room in Spain years back I assumed my daughter partner had forgotten something and had come back. Our bag was on the floor money items. I was in bed this person came in didn’t look that I was in the room he went for the bag noticed me ran off. Had I not been in the room our belongings money would have gone. An internal key card my guess. Corruption everywhere take a bum bag front facing. Great advice thank you.

[@bluetech2809]

Thanks for this warning, Andrew. We're heading to Tenerife (for the first time) on our honeymoon next month and you're absolutely right getting pickpocketed would be terrible.

[@mikewest2428]

Thanks for the info Andrew I was in fueteventura recently and they've got signs out warning people even in the shopping areas.

[@lyndonmorgan450]

Thank you Andrew for highlighting this about pick pocket, we go too Tenerife for 5 weeks twice a year, my wife put her purse on a chain and attache it too her handle of her bag, and she puts it in a zip compartment inside the bag, we were walking in the town in Los Crisand my wife felt a tug on her bag, somebody tryed to steal her purse, but failed, because she had it chained to her handle of her bag, another great vlog Andrew 👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@BornFree101]

My purse was nearly stolen in Barcelona when catching a bus, the people behind me warned me, the thief then tried to steal a man's wallet from his back pocket. When confused about which transport to take this can be a hot spot for crime. I also had my purse stolen in London in Tesco, the video footage showed a woman following me around the store, at checkout they distracted me with a newborn baby asking for change of a five pound note. Police called me, a homeless man found it in a waste basket, could not thank him as the police had no information.

[@grumblewoof4721]

Thanks for the advice... I have been to the Canaries many times before covid and never had problems like that... things have changed. I travel fair bit and I do a few things; I don't have more cash than I need on me... enough for a coffee, one credit card concealed and in RFID resistant cover, phone with passcode and finger print and a fake wallet. The fake wallet has old expired card and some obscure foreign currency like useless Nigerian notes in case I am mugged. I wear a broken watch or no watch.

[@jackmaddesty]

Thank you👍❤

[@dragonseye00]

I love in Gran Canaria since 2008,and I never heard of anybody having been robbed or having had an encounter with s pick-pocket. Now, where you are right it's that the council and the police wont do too much. Maybe I don't know that because I'm not a tourist, I guess those pick-pockets notice when someone is familiar with the area, a tourist or a local or at least a resident. Of course, carrying a purse or phone in the back pocket of your pants is not a good idea - no matter where you go, in general. If you carry cash, don't show you carry cash on you - also here - no matter where you are in the world. Opportunity makes the thief. However, as said, I NEVER saw this problem on Gran Canaria. Maybe that's more frequent in the south, in the tourist area. In the capital we've got close to 500k inhabitants, but I rarely hear anything about robbery, stolen phones or wallets. It galena, but considering the quantity of people around its rather neglectable. It's not a danger. But the recommendation is a general one, always be aware that someone could steal your phone or wallet - just make sure you're not showing off your phone, cash, credit and debit cards to much, and store them where it's extremely difficult to take them without you noticing. Madrid and Barcelona is much worse. It's a totally normal business that people get robbed / mugged / pick-pocketed, no matter if in day or nighttime. And the police does little to nothing. I actually heard more stories of stuff being stolen while I've lived in the UK. I'm rather surprised that relatively little is happening, at least on Gran Canaria. For me, more police presence would help, but sure, the council preferred them issuing parking tickets, that's easy money for the treasury.

[@Ironman5631]

Cheers for the warning fella. We're off to Lanzarote in a couple of months. I wonder if the local plod would be more interested if a holidymaker/victim were to iron out the pickpocket?

[@denizalgazi]

This has been going on for many decades. When you spot a pickpocket, break both their wrists. That's what we did in Roma. In Florida, they don't have pickpockets. They use gvns instead in the US. And Florida doesn't like crimes being reported so you don't hear much about it. Thank you for warning travellers who should always be aware matter where they are.

[@Oldladysgin]

It is being hidden, deliberately. The trouble is when you sweep things under the carpet, eventually you trip over the lump.

[@NEWI_TV]

Great update as always. It's rife on the Spanish mainland as well, but I don't feel it is publicised enough. I'm just coming to the end of a three city hop in Barcelona, Valencia & Madrid (got a big Knightstrider video catch up coming up when I go back to the UK on Monday) and the authorities don't seem to warn any tourists about pick pocketing, they are no signs or any forms of warning. You are very correct in what you say that it is easy to slip into holiday mode or feel this won't happen to you. Barcelona, down La Ramblas, Valencia during Las Fallas and Madrid on Gran Via they are no signs warning of pickpockets are operating in the area. Keep trying to spread the word through the channel though

[@juliayang3879]

No signs in barocelona but i was warned about pickpockets by local police officers there in la ramblas! Also my friend witnessed someone pickpocketing on the subway in barocelona! I never carried a rucksack type bag or a nice bag, surely only little cash in my pocket due to pickpockets there.

[@NEWI_TV]

@@juliayang3879 Hi Julia, I felt nervous riding the subway especially at busy periods in Barcelona.

[@markmiles2709]

There was always a bloke in gc robbing people for years on the sand dunes and the police did nothing about it he had been beaten up many times by people catching him picking through your belongings even had pictures of him warning people but he was still always around robbing people

[@ivanmartin7231]

As a cop in tenerife you can be sure this is a real problem ,like in any mayor touristic place, this profesional thieves are gonna prey on tourist , much more has to be done by authorities to prevent this from happening . I have had to assist to to many tourists with their holidays ruined and poor impresions on the island.

[@malc2121]

I was robbed in the 90s, hotels charging for safes is the first thing should be sorted, I travel to many places and Spain is one of a few places that charge for safes. The police need to clamp down on these crimes. I avoid coming to the island's due to the crime. Thanks for the video

[@djdad2482]

Need to keep a good old fashion mouse trap in the handbag... if any pick pockets put their fingers in... SNAP! 😅

[@BiggyPR]

Great advice Andrew, this is always good to inform others about what really goes on. My wife and I helped fellow guests who were pickpocketed going for a meal in Costa Adeje last March and said it had happened so quickly to them. So just keep up the great work and eventually something might be done.👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@joinjoy-ow7sb]

Hello my beautiful angel ❤❤❤

[@junemccann5981]

Good morning Andrew. Hats off to you. All your advice and the time you take to help people is so nice. It's so angering just how easy it is for these cretins to ruin people's special times. Thankyou for always being so kind and thoughtful of others. Have a lovely weekend. 🥰🌞🥰Xxx

[@Lyn-tr4bt]

Well done Andrew. So important for visitors to be updated and to be made aware. Keep up your great work xx

[@stevie9899-e6j]

What the police refer to as 'petty crime' happens everywhere unfortunately , It's rife in places like Benidorm too, from distraction crimes , hugger muggers and pick-pockets. I don't even carry a wallet now , just Euros in one front pocket and my phone in the other front pocket. Those signs would be a great idea.

[@Almate3006]

In southern Spain we have the same problem specially in Málaga airport you got to watch your luggage etc.

[@elainesayles4624]

When we go out we only take out what we need. I always have my handbag in front of me and generally hold on to my handbag. I always have it across my body.

[@motr1912]

The way I look at it, no matter where you are or where you go, expect the unexpected and be cautious. Always be prepared.

[@marcincieplinski8883]

I'm sorry that you experienced this, I have already been to the Canary Islands, and in February 2025 I will be there again, so far nothing like this has happened to me, I always keep an eye on my most personal things, I never leave them in the hotel room when I go out for lunch or dinner, I do not allow the cleaning lady to clean the room every day, etc.

[@fergusmoloney5259]

I am 64, fit and healthy, but always carry a walking stick. When out and about I always turn 360 degrees when stopped and wave the stick casually about while scanning who is also nearby.

[@davidwatts968]

Well done Andrew. It so important that people are made aware of these issues. So many scams now with these targeted robberies. Apart from the crooks who do this and they are everywhere, peoples guard when in holiday is often down and relaxed atmospheres lead into this sort of thing. I was in Barcelona the other day and the same sort of thing happened and as you probably know Barcelona is rife with Robbery. The Police here in Spain could do more, but I think it does depend on region and what the local policía are will to tackle???

[@ELPaso1990TX]

I’d certainly avoid Barcelona, it’s got the highest crime rate in all of Europe.

[@zerosixzerotwo9122]

Hey Andrew, I’m going to Tenerife on October 1st with some friends. Thanks for highlighting the issue. It needs to be addressed 👍 😳These people should be dealt with more seriously.

[@blackice3395]

Thank you going here and Morocco 2024!

[@graememcfee23]

ive been to the canaries & nvr had a problem.but cheers

[@aidancox-yn6ln]

Hi Andrew, enjoy your videos.. perhaps get every single bar and restaurant to put boards outside.. not just market days .. every day

[@ursrieger1053]

Many thanks for telling these uncanny truths! I appreciate such videos. The influencers don´t tell about all that.

[@stuartw312000]

You are correct about Florida. During the nine times we've been we have never experienced any pick pockets or any type of trouble. We have found the people of Florida friendly and can't do enough for us.

[@jackfenbobs3519]

Old trick not truck. More cloning of you cards as well.

[@misubear]

Great video & spot on ! These are the moves the thieves play.

[@caroljohnston2877]

Thank you Andrew for pointing this issue out you are very thoughtful x

[@lumbauthor2]

For me who's been going over to Tenerife for a long time now I always put the 'Cash' in the Hotel Safe. And only take what I'd need for drinks etc. I really genuinely hope that the Canaries as whole can be the same as mainland Spain. Keep doing these videos they've got to take notice of people.

[@mikemarkey9069]

we got mugged in Barcelona on the train when leaving. Mainland is full of thieves also.

[@kellyvargas6986]

Many years ago I was robbed using distraction techniques. The first occasion was a woman in front of me suddenly stopped and bent down as if she had dropped something meanwhile my bag was slashed from behind and my purse stolen. The second occasion I was in a restaurant and my bag was between my feet under the table. Three guys came in, one ordered something at the bar behind me, the second tapped me on the shoulder and as I turned to look at him the third whipped my bag. The third time I was at a bus station with a huge bag, the female of a couple asked me if some money she had just found on the floor was mine meanwhile her partner left with my bag. Crowded places are the worst as it is easy for the thieves to disappear and they often work in pairs or small groups. All these incidents happened in Peru.

[@juliejr]

I have to be honest I visited Lanzarote a few years ago and it was the only holiday I had where the rep's warned us several time's to be aware of pick pockets. This type of thing happens everywhere but on holiday it definitely pays to be that extra carful.

[@ELPaso1990TX]

Problem in Spain is if they steal anything less than €400 it’s not considered a crime is just a misdemeanour and that’s why there’s no deterrent for stealing.

[@andrewplatt]

Good for you Andrew 👍 Thanks for your openness about the rising problem in tenerife, if this just helps a couple of people then it's well worth you're time. Thank you 👌

[@rickyboy591]

Just ordered a money belt as I’m off to Malaga and Sevilla soon’ thanks for the advice 👍