Be particularly aware in crowds, when traveling in, or getting on or off buses or trains, in a line, anywhere at all that it is not unusual for people to be up close to you.

• Look confident and aware. Thieves prefer to target folks that seem
  unsure of themselves or confused as to where they are going.
• Do use a Money Belt.
  A money belt under your clothing is the safest way to carry cash and
  cards, think how difficult it would be for thieving hands to get into
  it.
• Try to avoid falling asleep in public. Dozing
  off in bars, public transportation, libraries etc. gives thieves a
  golden opportunity to take all you’ve got.
• Be wary of anyone that accidentally spills or squirts
  something on your clothing ( a drink, mustard, ketchup etc.) and then
  insists on cleaning it off for you. Quite possibly all the time that
  they are apologizing an accomplice of theirs is picking your pocket or
  has their hand in your purse.
• Don’t wear
  excessive jewelry (unless the occasion really demands it.) Pickpockets,
  and other thieves, will take it as a sign that you are worth targeting.
  Fake jewelry is just as tempting. Sure sparkling bling impresses, but
  how much of an impression do you need to make at the mall?
• Be
  aware that backpacks are particularly vulnerable in crowds. It may be
  advisable, when in crowded places, to wear your backpack in front of
  you or carry it.
• Be aware that Fanny Packs (Bum Bags) are not safe.
  Never wear it behind you, wearing it in front is a better option. As
  the snap fastener can be quickly opened by a snatch thief, tie the strap
  to your belt. Consider wearing your fanny pack under your clothing, or
  use the much safer option of a money belt.
• Remember
  that these thieves are not easy to spot, they do their best to blend
  in. If working a tourist area they will likely dress and act like
  tourists, if operating in a city center they could well imitate city
  workers.
• Be aware that pickpockets often work in
  teams, while one is distracting you, another is stealing your valuables.
  Be alert whenever someone solicits your attention.

The safest thing to do is to only carry what you need. A money belt
is your best protection for your cash and cards and today’s belts are
comfortable to wear and generally invisible under clothing.

With
many regular style money belts there is room for things like passports
as well as cards and cash. Also available are belts that appear to be
normal pants belts but with a hidden compartment, naturally these are
only good for hiding folding money.

Follow the above tips and you should be able to avoid the attention of pickpocketing gangs.

Surveillance for Security
>

Personal Security
>
Pickpockets.

Self Defense Techniques.
Self defense techniques can be invaluable for situations where you have
no choice but to defend yourself. Fighting back may give you the
opportunity to get away to safety.