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TRAVEL SCAM
Rome, Italy
“Stain Distraction” Scam
Scammers dirty a tourist’s clothes and use the distraction to steal belongings.
High Risk
COMMON LOCATIONS
Tourist areas, Colosseum, crowded streets
HOW IT HAPPENS
HOW THE SCAM WORKS
1. Scammer secretly stains tourist’s clothing (e.g., tomato or liquid);
2. Another person points it out and offers help;
3. Tourist removes jacket or gets distracted;
4. Accomplice steals bag or valuables.
WATCH FOR THIS
WARNING SIGNS
- Someone points out a stain suddenly;
- Offers help cleaning;
- Encourages removing jacket;
- Close physical interaction
STAY SMART
HOW TO AVOID IT
- Refuse help from strangers;
- Keep belongings close;
- Do not remove items in public;
- Walk away quickly
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