Someone asks you to sign a petition. While you write, your pocket is picked. Classic distraction theft.
Plan your Italy trip →A person (often a young woman) approaches with a clipboard and asks you to sign a petition — "for deaf children," "against drugs," "for peace." While you're writing, an accomplice picks your pocket or bag. Alternatively, after signing, you're asked for a "donation" of €10-20 with aggressive insistence.
Outside churches (Sacré-Cœur in Paris is the global epicenter, but it happens in Rome, Florence, Milan). Piazza di Spagna, Piazza Navona, around the Colosseum. Near tourist queues where people are standing still.
"No, grazie" without stopping. Don't engage, don't look at the clipboard, don't slow down. The entire scam depends on you stopping to be polite. Walk past. You are not obligated to sign anything on the street.
Tell us your dates and style — we handle the details so you can enjoy Italy worry-free.
Plan free →