Summary: With the recovery of business travelers, tourists, and students from Japan, there has been an increase in reports from Japanese nationals regarding street crimes such as pickpocketing, snatching, and robbery, as well as fraud cases. Japanese travelers should be aware that situations may differ from Japan, and in case of crime, it is necessary for victims to report to local police, which may require significant time and effort to resolve.
1. Robbery & Assault:
- Trends: Robberies and assaults continue to occur in downtown Vancouver and nearby stations. There have been cases where individuals were followed from their nearest station or bus stop and attacked near their homes, or were randomly assaulted in the street. Additionally, there is an increase in people with emotional instability or drug addiction.
- Precautions:
- Avoid walking alone on poorly lit streets at night; use taxis whenever possible.
- Be especially vigilant around stations and bus stops, where criminals may target victims.
- Avoid using earphones or looking at your phone while walking, as this reduces awareness and makes you more vulnerable.
- Occasionally check behind you, walk confidently, and avoid appearing as an easy target.
- If you sense something unusual or encounter someone with emotional instability, avoid eye contact and maintain a safe distance, possibly changing your route if necessary.
2. Fraud:
- Trends: Fraud remains prevalent, with increasingly sophisticated methods. Common scams include:
- Government/Public Agencies Impersonation: Receiving messages claiming payment or refunds from institutions like ICBC, BC Government, or Vancouver City Hall, which are not actually sent by these entities.
- Impersonation of Companies: Scammers posing as Amazon, Netflix, Canada Post, or banks, claiming issues with payments or deliveries and phishing for personal information.
- Phone Scams: Receiving messages or calls from alleged credit card companies or government agencies threatening account suspension or legal actions, seeking personal information.
- Rental Fraud: Scammers advertise non-existent rental properties, asking for advance payments and then disappearing.
- Check Fraud: Scammers send checks and request cash in return, exploiting the unfamiliarity of Japanese nationals with checks.
- Precautions:
- Consult with friends or acquaintances before making decisions.
- Do not share personal information casually or click on suspicious links.
- Be cautious with checks; understand that funds may not be immediately available and verify with your bank.
- Stay updated on fraud tactics through news and official sources.
3. Extortion:
- Trends: Extortion cases involve individuals met through language exchange apps or social media who request video calls and then threaten to release compromising photos or videos. Paying the extortionist may lead to further demands.
- Precautions:
- If you suspect a scam, immediately cut off communication and do not make any payments.
4. Sexual Assault:
- Trends: Japanese nationals may be targeted due to perceived tendencies to avoid confrontation. Victims of sexual crimes suffer deep emotional trauma. Be cautious and aware of the different social norms abroad.
- Precautions:
- Clearly communicate your boundaries, even with acquaintances.
- Avoid consuming food or drinks from strangers and excessive drinking.
- Be cautious with individuals met through apps; avoid inviting them to your home or accepting rides from them.
- Ensure any shared accommodation has proper locking mechanisms and secure your room.
5. Vehicle Theft:
- Trends: Vehicle theft continues in Vancouver, with reports of cash and passports being stolen. Even short-term parking can be risky.
- Precautions:
- Never leave valuables in your car and avoid placing items visible from outside.
- Always lock your vehicle securely.
6. Pickpocketing & Snatching:
- Trends: Theft from bags left unattended in cafes, restaurants, and other public places is common. Pickpockets also target crowded tourist spots.
- Precautions:
- Keep bags and valuables in front of you and do not leave them unattended.
- Carry wallets and passports close to your body.
- Avoid putting valuables in back pockets or visible places.
- Never leave your belongings unattended, even briefly.
Please remain vigilant and prioritize your safety to avoid falling victim to these types of crimes.
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