The matches and the numerous events directly and indirectly connected with the World Cup always attract huge crowds.

Experience shows that pickpockets often take advantage of this hustle and bustle to ply their trade.

They mostly operate in teams, work swiftly and take advantage of the crush - one which they often create themselves. Pickpockets have an extremely varied repertoire of tricks, with new ones appearing almost daily.

Some police tips:

• Carry only what you need and as few objects of value as possible with you.
• Use a chest bag, fanny pack, money belt, or a purse chained to your belt. Do not keep your wallet in your back pocket.
• Always carry your money, EC and credit cards and papers in different closed inside pockets as near the body as possible.
• Make sure your hand bag/shoulder bag or your backpack is properly closed and carry it in front of you. Stick the bag or your backpack under your arm.
• When paying at a restaurant or in the stadium, always keep your bag or backpack close to you and keep a watchful eye on it.

Remember:

If despite all precautions something does get stolen from you, try to stay calm. Try to remember what the thief looked like and what actually took place. Ask passers-by and other people who saw what happened to act as witnesses. Make a note of their names and addresses, and inform the police without delay of the theft. And another thing: Never carry weapons or self-defence devices because they may make the criminal more violent and aggressive.