No matter where you are in December, whether it be a buzzy Christmas market in England or abroad, pickpockets are on the loose.

These opportunistic thieves will take what they can get, whether that’s a phone, bank cards, cash or keys. Security experts at Nottingham Locksmiths have revealed six sneaky pickpocket scams travellers need to know.

In busy areas, such as busy high streets and train stations, pickpockets might attempt the “bump and lift” trick.

The expert elaborated: “They deliberately bump into you, jostling you in the chaos, while an accomplice swoops in to swipe your wallet, phone, or handbag.

“Some pickpockets will even intentionally spill food or drinks on you as a diversion or knock off things you’re carrying.

“As you’re trying to get your composure back, one of them is already helping themselves to your valuables.”

Then there’s the “young assassin” where a group of children – yes, children – surround tourists with the intention of stealing.

“These kids might seem like they’re selling small items like flowers or postcards, but their real agenda is to distract you while an accomplice grabs your valuables.”

Pickpockets even like to take advantage when street performers are entertaining a crowd. The expert said: “While you’re mesmerised by the show, thieves can slip through the audience unnoticed, using the noise and chaos as cover to target wallets, phones, and purses.”

Then there’s the seemingly “helpful local” who tries to distract you with well-meaning conversation while an accomplice steals your belongings.

Popular in hotspots like Paris, Milan and Rome, the friendship bracelet scam “involves a stranger approaching you with a friendly offer to tie a ‘free’ bracelet around your wrist”.

The expert added: “Once it’s on, they demand payment, leaving you in a stressful, awkward position. While you’re caught off guard, an accomplice might strike.”

Another sneaky scam is often seen in cafes and restaurants where a thief acts like a lost tourist. “They approach diners with their phone casually left on the table and suddenly shove a map or leaflet in their face, pretending to ask for directions,” the expert said.

“While you’re distracted, they swipe your phone from the table without you noticing.”

Six scams

1. Bump and lift
2. Young assassin
3. Street performer crowds
4. Helpful local
5. Friendship bracelet
6. Tabletop distraction