The counter is the golden opportunity for thieves to strike — uncover four common methods of passport theft

▲ Passport (Photo / Darzi / Illustration)

By Rita

Can you believe it? According to Interpol database figures from 2002, a staggering 40 million passports have been stolen worldwide. In the United States alone, 300,000 passports go missing every year — and many people don’t even know how theirs was lost. The well-known travel websiteConde Nast has compiled four common tactics used by thieves, which are so subtle that travelers need to be extra vigilant.

1. Distract you first, then steal
Many assume that thieves go to great lengths to take your passport from your bag — but actually, that’s not the easiest way. It’s far simpler to just distract you.When checking in at a hotel, a passport is an essential document. Many people take it out and place it on the counter while rummaging through their bags for hotel reservation papers — and that’s the golden opportunity for thieves.They may ask you questions or ask for your help with something to distract you, then seize the chance to take your passport.

2. Spill something on you
Don’t think no one would fall for this cliché movie trick. Thieves may spill ice cream or juice on you, and while you’re cleaning up, they’ll take your passport. Remember, if you’re unlucky enough to be targeted this way, it’s best to firmly refuse to go anywhere with the stranger or have any contact — just run away and put distance between yourself and them.

3. From your pocket
Taking something from a pocket is generally very easy for thieves. If you carry your passport with you, always keep it in an inner pocket.

4. Pretend to be a police officer
Thieves posing as police officers to check travelers’ documents is a tactic seen in many countries. You can judge the situation by observing whether everyone is being checked or just you. Alternatively, ask them to take you to the nearest police station — you can show your passport there for inspection, or do it in the hotel lobby. It’s best to first check with the hotel front desk, preferably someone who speaks the local language, to confirm whether the person is really a police officer.