Holidaymakers ‘falling victim to thieves’

A number of people on their holidays are becoming victims of theft – which could add to debt concerns – it has been revealed.

Research conducted by Direct Line Travel Insurance has found that 41 per cent of Britons have had money stolen while abroad.

A fifth have had their cameras pinched and 16 per cent have had their credit and debit cards targeted.

Despite this, 16 per cent of victims admitted they had not taken out insurance cover.

Jennifer Thomas, spokesperson for the company, said: “Holidaymakers should protect themselves by ensuring that they have travel insurance in place to cover against any losses should the worst happen.”

The most common form of theft was shown to take place in people’s accommodation, while 11 per cent reported being pick-pocketed while away from their hotel.

A survey carried out by moneysupermarket.com recently found that around 2.4 million Brits would be willing to fake a home insurance claim to reap the financial benefits.

By Joe Shervin