7 Smart Tips for Handling the Bracelet Scammers in Paris
If you are heading to Sacré-Cœur, you might encounter scammers who try to force handmade bracelets onto your wrist. They often target people who appear polite or unsure of themselves. Here are 7 ways to handle the situation and stay safe.
1. Look them in the eye
Avoid looking down or at the ground. Scammers look for targets who appear scared or intimidated. Maintain eye contact to show you are aware of your surroundings and are not an easy target.
2. Say “No” loudly
Be firm and use a strong voice. A simple “Non” or “Non merci” is often enough to make them move on to someone else. If they persist, increasing your volume can help because these scammers do not want to draw unwanted attention to their activities.
3. Keep moving
Do not stop to listen to a story or engage in conversation. Any engagement is seen as an opening to continue the scam. Keep your pace steady and walk past them without stopping, even if they try to block your path.
4. Guard your personal space
If someone tries to grab your arm or wrist, pull away forcefully. Be aware that these interactions can sometimes be a distraction for pickpockets. Keeping your hands in your pockets or staying alert to others nearby can help protect your belongings.
5. Avoid the main steps
The bracelet scammers are most active on the front steps south of Sacré-Cœur. You can avoid the majority of these groups by taking the west side approach or coming from the rear of the church. Arriving very early at dawn can also mean fewer crowds and fewer scammers.
6. Make a scene
If you are cornered or physically restrained, do not be afraid to be “impolite”. Yell for them to leave you alone or scream if necessary. Drawing the attention of nearby tourists and locals is usually enough to make a scammer back off immediately.
7. Know your backup
If you feel unsafe, look for a police officer or a member of the Gendarmerie. “Police” is the same word in French and English, making it easy to call for help. You can also duck into a nearby shop to get away from an aggressive individual.
Final Words
While the bracelet vendors at Sacré-Cœur are particularly aggressive, remain alert for other common tactics used throughout Paris.
Watch out for groups asking you to sign a petition; this is often a ruse to distract you while a pickpocket works. Be wary of “distraction” scams, such as someone dropping coins at your feet to steal your wallet while you focus on your luggage.
Never leave your phone on a cafe table, as thieves may cover it with a piece of paper while asking for money and swipe it when they leave.
Keeping your “city attitude” and a firm “Non” will help you navigate these situations safely.