Here’s a fascinating interview with Bob Arno, a Vegas-based consultant who studies the techniques of pickpockets:
How do you track down pickpockets?
I stuff my wallet with paper and keep it in my pants pocket. Then I linger in prime tourist spots in foreign cities. Sooner or later, someone steals the wallet, and I try to steal it back.Really?
Yeah. If I successfully steal the wallet back — and I often do — the thief is usually willing to share the latest techniques.What’s a classic ploy?
A pickpocket squirts mustard on you unawares. He approaches you, points at the stain and starts to clean it. While he distracts you with one hand, he robs you with his free hand.
(via Schneier)