To avoid bag snatchers and bag slashers, wear your bag across your chest and keep it close to you. Thieves are in search of the easiest bags to take or slash. By keeping your bag close, you are no longer an easy target. The thief will pass you and move on to someone with an easier bag to take. If your bag is snatched, you should make a lot of noise and yell, "Kapkaççi! (kahp-KAHTCH-chuh)" to get attention. Do not chase the thief yourself because they might be armed.
Con artists often approach Americans and Europeans because they aren't familiar with the ways of the country. A common con is for a Turkish person to ask you to show them an American dollar because they have never seen one before. As you get it out, the thief sees where you keep your money so they can take it and run. When dealing with strangers, just be very cautious, especially if money comes up.
Muggers are also on the lookout for American and European travelers. They cannot be avoided as easily as bag snatchers and bag slashers, but you can decrease your chances of getting mugged. One thing you can do is travel with others if is possible. Muggers are much more likely to attack a lone traveler. Another way to avoid muggers is to take a taxi whenever possible. For shopping trips where you will be carry bags, ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you. Once you reach your destination, arrange a place for the driver to pick you up when you are done. This will ensure that you are riding with a legitimate taxi the entire time. Do not trust taxis your hotel has not arranged, just in case they are run by con artists.
