Security Alert: Italy, Increased Crime During Summer Travel Season

Summer travel season represents an opportunity for increased criminal activity, both at home and while you are out. Tourist venues, shopping districts, and public transportation (especially subways and trains) are prime targets for pickpockets and scam artists.  Remain vigilant and use appropriate personal security practices.

Action to take:

· Always maintain situational awareness. Be mindful of distraction tactics and jostling crowds. 

· Be particularly alert near/on public transportation, in tourist and high traffic areas, as you enter and exit vehicles and stores, or while using ATM machines.

· Use good judgment in public and be discreet (avoid displaying cash, conceal jewelry, etc.).

· Maintain control of all your personal belongings.  Keep valuables in your front pockets and hold purses and bags closely in front of your body, especially at restaurants and outdoor venues.

· Do not leave shopping bags, purses, backpacks, or other valuables visible in your car.

· Do not share personal information with strangers (name, phone, address, country of origin, etc.).

· Do not accept gifts or items from strangers.  This may be a prelude to a scam.  Typical gifts are flowers, bracelets, and even bottled water.  The scammer will usually ask for highly inflated prices and use high pressure tactics to elicit money.

Assistance:  

· U.S. Embassy Rome, Italy+39 06 46741USCitizensRome@state.gov

· U.S. Consulate General Florence, Italy

+39 06-4674-1

USCitizensFlorence@state.gov

· U.S. Consulate General Milan, Italy

+39 02 290 351

USCitizensMilan@state.gov

· U.S. Consulate General Naples, Italy

+39 081-583-8111

USCitizensNaples@state.gov

· https://it.usembassy.gov