FCO report - Increase in the number of reported passport thefts.

Crime remains comparatively low in Portugal but pickpocketing, handbag snatching and theft from cars are increasingly common in major tourist areas. Take care of your belongings at all times. Do not leave your bag on the chair beside you while eating or having a drink in a café or restaurant. Do not hang it on the back of your chair or leave it unattended under the table. Thieves often work in groups and create distractions with the aim of stealing. Since the beginning of 2008 there has been an increase in the number of reported passport thefts. Remember your passport is a valuable document. It is expensive to replace and can lead to serious complications if your identity is later used fraudulently. You should report the loss or theft of your passport immediately to the local police and obtain a police report.