Paris Emergency Card

Tourist Police / Authorities

• Préfecture de Police de Paris
  +33 1 53 71 53 71
  9 Bd du Palais, 75004 Paris — file reports 24/7
• Tourist assistance (SARIJ)
  Any commissariat — ask for the tourist unit
  Interpreters available for major languages

First 10 minutes if something happens

1. 1.Get to a safe, public spot (café, hotel lobby, shop) and call Police / all-emergency on 17 if anyone is hurt or in immediate danger.
2. 2.Freeze cards immediately in your bank app (do this before calling the bank — it's faster). Revoke Apple Pay / Google Pay from a trusted device if your phone was taken.
3. 3.Change the password on your primary email from a trusted device, then sign out of every other session. Email is the master key to everything else.
4. 4.Contact Préfecture de Police de Paris on +33 1 53 71 53 71 to file a report — you'll need the reference number for insurance, banks, and your embassy.

Full 8-step checklist at gacs.app/safe-traveller/paris

Top 5 scams to watch for

1. 1. The 'gold ring' find
   A stranger 'finds' a gold ring at your feet and insists you keep it — then demands money.
   Avoid: Never accept 'found' jewellery from a stranger.
   If it happens: Drop the ring immediately and step away. Do not hand over money.
2. 2. Petition / deaf-and-mute clipboard
   Groups (often teens) push a fake petition in your face while an accomplice picks your pocket.
   Avoid: Say 'Non' firmly and keep walking — do not read the clipboard.
   If it happens: Check your pockets and bag immediately.
3. 3. Friendship bracelet at Sacré-Cœur
   Men tie a string bracelet to your wrist, then demand €10–€20 and block you until you pay.
   Avoid: Keep hands in pockets on the Sacré-Cœur steps.
   If it happens: Cut the bracelet off with keys or teeth — it has no value.
4. 4. Metro ticket 'help'
   Someone offers to help you buy a ticket — they pocket your change or skim your card.
   Avoid: Refuse all help at ticket machines, including from people in high-vis vests who are not RATP staff.
   If it happens: Cancel your card immediately if they touched it or saw your PIN.
5. 5. Fake taxi at CDG / Orly
   Unofficial 'taxis' outside arrivals charge €80–€150 for a €55 fixed fare.
   Avoid: Ignore anyone offering a taxi inside the terminal.
   If it happens: Refuse to pay a fare higher than the official fixed rate.