This article is a travel topic.

There are some near-universal things you can do to stay safe in urban environments.

General

• Avoid looking like a rich target, don't flash wads of cash or wear massive amounts of jewelry.
• Keep your eyes open, if the area is heavily vandalized and there are groups of young people hanging around, perhaps it's not the best place to stop.
• Try not to get too drunk - if you have had too much get a taxi home.
• See also common scams and pickpockets

Auto

When using a private car it vitally important to:

• Keep the boot or trunk locked - in some areas thieves open the boot and snatch bags at the traffic lights.
• Keep mobile phones, valuables out of sight - this goes double when you park the car.
• Park in well lit places with no cover around the car - if there are bushes etc. thieves can work on the locks out of sight.
• It's worth extending your insurance to cover all costs of window/windscreen replacement; it's not uncommon for thieves to just smash the glass to get in.

Public transportation

When on public transport:

• Buses and trains: Stay near the driver/conductor when getting on
• Taxis: Use licensed cabs, rather than private taxis (gypsy cabs), even though they might be slightly more expensive. When riding alone in a taxi, sit behind the driver where it is more difficult for him to threaten or harm you.