France 2020 Crime & Safety Report

4/15/2020 | Report

France 2020 Crime & Safety Report

http://www.osac.gov/Content/Report/9e018305-f86a-4389-bdb7-1873df850e3e

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy in Paris. OSAC encourages travelers to use this report to gain baseline knowledge of security conditions in France. For more in-depth information, review OSAC’s France country page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password.

Travel Advisory

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication assesses France at Level 2, indicating travelers should exercise increased caution due to terrorism. Review OSAC’s report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

Crime Threats

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Paris as being a MEDIUM-threat location, and has assessed Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, and Strasbourg as being LOW-threat locations for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.

More than four million U.S. nationals visited France in 2019. Paris is generally a safe destination for tourists, students, business travelers, and others. Violent crime is relatively uncommon; however, street crime is a concern, most notably in areas tourists frequent. Consular officials throughout France report that U.S. travelers are frequently victims of pickpockets or scams. Crimes against visitors are generally crimes of opportunity, though these crimes are more likely to involve violence either late at night or if the victim resists the criminal. Robberies involving physical assault do occur in Paris and other major urban areas. In addition to wallets and passports, smart phones and small electronic devices are targets. Smart phones and computers, and specifically Apple products, cost more in France than in the United States; local thieves and pickpockets target these specifically. Be wary of where you use and store your laptop or smartphone.

Pickpockets can be any gender, race, or age; however, it is common for pickpockets in Paris to be under the age of 16, as they are less likely to face arrest/prosecution. A common method is for one thief to distract a tourist with questions or a disturbance while an accomplice picks the victim’s pockets, backpack, or purse. Remain aware and attentive to surroundings, particularly in congested areas at train stations, airports, and subways.

Tourist sites and the public transportation system are locations where criminals routinely operate. Pickpockets are active on the rail link (RER B) from Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the city center. Pickpockets often target passengers on Metro line 1, which traverses the city center from east to west and services many major tourist sites. Thieves time their pickpocket attempts to coincide with the closing of the automatic doors on the Metro, leaving the victim on the departing train while the thief makes his/her escape through the Metro.

Confidence schemes in Paris include asking pedestrians to sign a petition or take a survey, then soliciting money to support the cause. Other schemes involve presenting a gold ring or a friendship bracelet; as soon as one takes the jewelry in hand, the con artists demand payment. These schemes can also be ruses to distract for pickpockets. Review OSAC’s report, All That You Should Leave Behind.

ATMs in Paris are relatively safe. However, visitors should use ATMs that are well lighted and at reputable banks. Thieves have installed magnetic strip readers to capture account information, and small CCTV cameras to capture PINs in some ATMs. If the ATM takes your card and does not give it back, go into the bank to report it immediately. Review OSAC’s reports, The Overseas Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud and Taking Credit.

U.S. nationals have also experienced residential break-ins, bicycle theft, and other forms of property crime with minimal violence. Throughout August, when most French residents take summer vacations, and in December, there is a general increase in the number of residential break-ins. Most involve residents not using proper security measures. Frequently, burglars will make phone calls before break-ins to see if the resident is home. Often, thieves will gain access to an apartment building in order to knock on apartment doors to see if anyone answers, offering an excuse (e.g. taking a survey, representing a utility company) when someone does answer the door. Review OSAC’s reports, Hotels: The Inns and Outs and Considerations for Hotel Security.

There have been reported cases of smash-and-grab robberies from vehicles in economically depressed areas and on heavy traveled roads. Thieves on motorbike will approach a vehicle stopped in traffic, smash a window, reach in to grab valuables, and flee. Keep vehicle doors locked and valuables out of sight.

The Paris Police Prefecture maintains an English-language website for foreign visitors that provides practical advice and useful contact information for visitors.

Avoid public parks after dark -- particularly the Bois de Boulogne. Drug dealers and other criminal elements frequent this area, increasing the risk of assault. Take particular care at night in adult entertainment districts, such as the Pigalle area of Paris. Many nightclubs engage in aggressive marketing, and charge exorbitant rates for drinks. Hidden charges of €500-600 for drinks are not uncommon; there have been reports of threats to coerce customers into paying these charges by physically preventing customers from leaving until the tab is settled. Be aware of “date-rape” drugs, which are present in France. Be cautious in bars and clubs, and do not leave your drink unattended or accept a drink from strangers. Review OSAC’s report, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad.

Cybersecurity Issues

Do not trust WiFi hot spots. Criminals can configure “man-in-the-middle” access points that appear free so that they can intercept communications from anyone who connects. This allows hackers to access sensitive information appearing on the user’s screen. It also provides a mechanism by which a hacker can gain control of the connecting device.

Owners of public Internet cafes may install key-logging software that enables theft of sensitive information.

Transnational organized crime operatives reside in France. Syndicates are technically competent, and conduct many of their schemes via cyber platforms.

Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling with Mobile Devices: Trends & Best Practices, and Satellite Phones: Critical or Contraband?

Transportation-Safety Situation

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Road conditions are generally good. However, traffic congestion can be heavy, particularly in major cities. Traffic engineering differences and driving habits pose special dangers. Lane markings and sign placements may not be clear; prepare to make last-minute maneuvers. Driving is typically faster and more aggressive than in the United States. Right-of-way rules differ from those in the United States: unless specifically indicated otherwise, drivers entering intersections from the right have priority over those on the left, even when entering relatively large boulevards from small side streets. On major highways, there are service stations at least every 25 miles; they are not as common on secondary roads in France as they are in the United States.

Highway toll stations may not accept U.S. credit cards. For non-residents, the simplest way to pay is with cash euros at the toll lane marked for that purpose. Do not attempt to use a credit card if it is the only one you have in your possession in case the machine does not return your card.

While French cities actively encourage bicycle rentals through widely available city-sponsored systems, you should be cautious, especially in a busy and unfamiliar urban environment. Helmets are neither required nor readily available near rental stations. If you plan to ride a bicycle in France, bring your own helmet.

Pedestrian accidents are common when a pedestrian steps into the street, often when a car or motorcycle is making a turn through a pedestrian crosswalk. Pedestrians should be cautious and aware of traffic even when they have a green walking signal, since this is no guarantee against aggressive drivers. Do not assume cars will stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk.

In the tunnel connecting Charles de Gaulle airport and Paris near Saint-Denis, there have been reports of criminal activities during heavy traffic where motorcycles will pull up close to a vehicle, swing a hammer at the windshield and steal purses or other visible valuables.

Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the State Department’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.

Public Transportation Conditions

Paris has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. The interconnecting system of buses, subways, and commuter rails is comparable to or better than that found in major U.S. cities. Similar transportation systems are available in all major French cities. If you use any of France’s excellent public transportation services, take particular care to retain your used or “validated” ticket until you exit the bus, subway, or train station completely. Anyone over four years of age must have a ticket. Inspectors conduct intermittent, random checks; passengers who fail to present the correct validated ticket are subject to stiff and immediate fines. Inspectors may show no interest in explanations and no sympathy for an honest mistake. Failure to cooperate with inspectors may result in arrest.

The Paris Metro is generally reliable and safe. However, it is in wide use and can become very crowded; criminals and pickpockets target riders in crowds and individuals who appear lost or disoriented. Local authorities are also quick to close Metro stops and suspend certain lines for security reasons, particularly in the event of an abandoned package or a suspicious device. During large demonstrations, authorities may restrict access to and egress from certain Metro stops even if the line itself is running.

Between cities, France has extensive rail service, which is safe and reliable. High-speed rail links connect major cities, as does frequent air service. Traveling by train is safer than driving.

Use only authorized taxis, which in Paris include ride-share services and traditional livery services. Authorized livery services will have the following equipment: an illuminated “Taxi Parisien” sign on the roof; a meter showing the cost of the trip; a display at the rear of the vehicle and visible from the exterior that enables the monitoring of the daily duration of use of the vehicle; and a plate fixed to the front fender bearing the license number.

Security at all three of Paris’s airports is commensurate with airport security at most major European cities. Authorities have heightened airport security due to recent terrorist attacks throughout Europe. It is common to see armed French soldiers patrolling in the terminals.

Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.

Terrorism Threat

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Paris (as well as Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, Rennes, and Strasbourg) as being a HIGH-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. The terrorist threat in France remains high, but lower than at its peak in 2015. Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in France. French law enforcement remains concerned with the threat of domestic terrorism inspired by or affiliated with ISIS. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

French and U.S. authorities are concerned about the security ramifications of European citizens, including French nationals and residents, who have traveled to Iraq/Syria to join terrorist organizations and are returning to France or Europe to conduct terrorist acts. There is the same concern with individuals radicalized in France who are directed/inspired by ISIS to carry out terrorist attacks in France. The borders are relatively open within the Schengen zone, and there are a substantial number of supporters/sympathizers of terrorist organizations residing in the country.

Terrorist attacks by Islamist terrorists have been lethal in France. ISIS-directed/inspired or self-radicalized foreign fighters and homegrown extremists can be difficult to detect and counter.

In January 2020, a radicalized man stabbed several people at a park in the Parisian suburb of Villejuif, killing one person and injuring two before the police shot him dead.

In May 2019, a man affiliated with ISIS left a package filled with screws and nails that exploded in Lyon’s city center, injuring 13 people. Authorities arrested the man three days later.

The French government maintains a threat rating system known as “Vigipirate.” There are three threat levels: Vigilance, Enhanced Security Risk of Attack (the current level), and Imminent Attack.

Although terrorists have not specifically targeted U.S. nationals in terrorist attacks in France in the past few years, several have been victims of recent attacks. Terrorist organizations continue to aspire to attack U.S. interests worldwide. Remain vigilant and immediately report unattended packages observed in public places or any other suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.

Authorities continue to speak publicly about the heightened threat conditions for terrorist attacks in France and throughout Europe. The United States and France routinely share information to disrupt terrorist plotting, identify and take action against potential operatives, and strengthen defenses against potential threats.

Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment

Multiple developments have fueled anti-Western sentiment and protests in France: French military involvement in Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, and the Sahel; and a state ban against wearing women wearing the veil in public buildings and state schools. These have incited terrorist acts in France in recent years.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

The U.S. Department of State has assessed Paris as being a MEDIUM-threat location and Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille, and Strasbourg as LOW-risk locations for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. In 2019, there were no anti-U.S./Western protests of any size or significance in France.

CivilUnrest

Protests and demonstrations routinely occur throughout France, especially in major cities. These protests range from concern over work conditions/wages/benefits to the environment. While protests are generally non-violent, some have resulted in property damage and injuries. Most organizers announce protests in advance, as demonstrations require prior police approval. However, unapproved and spontaneous protests do occur.

Beginning in late 2018, a leaderless, grassroots political movement known as the Gilets Jaunes (Yellow Vests) took to the streets of Paris and many major cities throughout France with concerns over new fuel tax hikes and other economic grievances. The demonstrators, known for wearing bright yellow reflective safety vests, have staged large demonstrations in most major cities, taken control of highway toll booths, and blocked traffic at key intersections throughout France nearly every Saturday for approximately one year. Violence, described as the worst since 1968, and significant property damage have occurred in Paris and other cities as demonstrators have clashed with police, burned cars, and taken advantage of the chaos to loot stores in the affected areas. The anti-government demonstrations resulted in at least 11 deaths and more than 4,000 injuries.

Avoid demonstrations, as even peaceful demonstrations may turn violent. Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

Flooding is a concern. In 2016, torrential rains caused deadly flooding in central and northeastern France, forcing the evacuation of thousands of people. The Seine River in Paris rose 18 feet, causing flooding along the lower embankments and closing several roads. Similar flooding occurred in Paris at the beginning of 2018.

Personal Identity Concerns

There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in France. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for LGBTI+ travelers.

Getting around French cities can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Many sidewalks are narrow and uneven, and cobblestone streets make access difficult, but the major tourist areas have better facilities. Although the Paris Metro is a very efficient method for traveling throughout central Paris, most stations are not readily accessible for people with disabilities. However, many Parisian buses and tramways are equipped with lowering platforms for travelers with limited-mobility, or sight- or hearing-disabled. The English-language Paris Visitors Bureau website contains additional information specifically designed for travelers with special mobility needs. Review the State Department’s webpage on security for travelers with disabilities.

Police Response

The emergency line in France to reach the police is 17. Dial the Europe-wide emergency response number 112 to reach an operator for all types of emergency services. For non-emergency assistance, go to the nearest police station (commissariat) to file an official report. Non-French speakers may experience a delay while an English speaker is located. In general, the police are professional, well equipped, and reliable. They maintain a robust presence, especially at high-profile government installations and tourist attractions. French police (as well as military personnel) routinely patrol public spaces.

Following the terrorist attacks in 2015, the government enacted a state of emergency, renewing it five times before it finally expired in 2017. The state of emergency allowed the government to prevent the circulation of certain individuals, and to create zones of protection and security. There were reinforced security measures throughout the communes in the Île de France region. The state of emergency allowed for house arrest of any person whose activities authorities deemed dangerous, the closure of theaters and meeting places, the surrender of weapons, and the possibility of administrative house searches. On the eve of expiration of the state of emergency, President Macron signed a counterterrorism law codifying certain aspects of the emergency law that gave the police additional tools and authorities to fight violent extremism.

Operation Sentinelle remains in effect, with approximately 10,000 soldiers deployed throughout France, 6,500 of which are within Paris to augment police and increase the visible security presence at airports, train/metro stations, schools, major tourist attractions, religious facilities, and government installations. It is common to see army patrols in Paris.

Three principal forces maintain public safety and security: Municipal Police, National Police, and the military Gendarmerie. These services are professional, competent, and proactive in fighting crime and violence and maintaining security.

It is increasingly common to see private security personnel conducting security inspection at public venues, tourist attractions, businesses, and shopping centers.

Medical Emergencies

Medical care in France is comparable to that found in the United States. In an emergency, dialing 15 will connect the caller to emergency medical services. Non-French speakers may experience a delay while an English speaker is located. Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website.

The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the State Departments webpage on insurance overseas. Except for emergency services, individuals and insurance companies may need to pay for service prior to receiving treatment in France. Under local law, medical providers may refuse service to individuals lacking the ability to pay for service. Providers may deny treatment to foreigners with terminal illnesses if treatment is available in their home country.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Government of France to ensure the medication is legal in France. Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for France. Review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, I’m Drinking What in My Water?, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad

OSAC Country Council Information

The Country Council in Paris is active, meeting annually. Contact OSAC’s Europe team for more information or to join.

U.S. Embassy Contact Information

2 avenue Gabriel, 75008 Paris

Hours of Operation: 0900-1800, Monday – Friday

Telephone: +33 1 43 12 22 22

Website: https://fr.usembassy.gov

Other U.S. Diplomatic Posts In France