The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has launched a campaign to encourage Brits to keep their passports safe overseas.
Last year, over 21,000 British passports were lost or stolen and consulates around the world issued over 30,000 emergency travel documents (ETDs). The FCO says it is seeing more instances of passports being stolen from hire cars.
The FCO is using the hashtag #PassportAware and has produced a series of short films to show four techniques that thieves can use to steal passports, as well as tips to avoid being a victim.
In addition to pickpockets, many consulates have reported a rise in cases of items being taken from hire cars, such as a family of four who had their passports stolen from their hire car while they were touring the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas.
"Thieves anticipate items of value such as passports being left in hire cars, so don’t take any chances. Leave your passport in your hotel safe, or keep it with you and don’t give away its location," the FCO said in a statement.
"Valuable holiday time and money can be lost if a passport is lost or stolen as the victim may need to report the theft to the police, as well as spend time at the local consulate or embassy so that they can be issued with an ETD."
James Freedman, stealth crime expert who features in the short films, said: "With identity theft on the rise, the actual cost of losing your passport could be thousands of pounds. Criminals and con-men are always evolving the tricks they use to target tourists, but a few simple precautions will really help you to stay safe.
"Only carry what you really need and keep cash and other valuables in a secure pocket or bag.
"Remember that if you put bags down, they should always be in your line of sight.
"If you don’t need your passport and other valuables when you’re out and about, leave them at the hotel. Above all, trust your instincts and be aware of anyone invading your personal space."
