Guests Sound Alarm Over Increased Pickpocketing at Disney Parks

Disney may specialize in crafting magic, but one element beyond Mickey’s control is the unpredictability of guests—particularly when some bring more mischief than magic.

Over recent years, incidents at Disney parks have ranged from strange to scandalous, often driven by visitor behavior rather than anything Disney itself orchestrated. And as guests reveal, a troubling trend seems to be taking hold, especially at Disneyland Paris: an increase in pickpocketing.

Credit: Disneyland Paris

From altercations at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, to disagreements over table availability at Disney California Adventure, it’s clear that tension sometimes finds its way into the parks. Yet, it’s not only public disputes that mar the Disney experience; some visitors now report rising theft issues at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and, more prominently, Disneyland Paris.

Pickpocketing at Disneyland Paris

Earlier this year, a guest recounted on Reddit how a woman tried to pickpocket them in the rain. “This afternoon a woman put her hand in my pocket as I was walking towards Buzz,” the guest wrote, referencing the Buzz Lightyear attraction. Luckily, they felt the tug and spotted her hand in time to avoid any loss. Another guest reported a similar experience in the Phantom Manor elevator, where a thief managed to take a wallet, disappearing into the dark before they realized it was gone.

Credit: Disneyland Paris

Back in 2016, French and Romanian police cracked down on a ring of organized pickpockets who reportedly conducted over 1,000 thefts targeting tourists around Disneyland Paris. The thieves amassed a fortune in stolen items, ranging from cash to high-end leather goods, with an estimated value exceeding €1 million ($1.1 million). This joint operation revealed a coordinated network targeting visitors both on their way to Disneyland and near the resort entrances.

Where Are Thefts Most Common?

Many of the thefts at Disneyland Paris reportedly occur in high-traffic areas like shuttle buses, train stations, and Disney Village. In Reddit discussions, some visitors recalled how they became targets while trying to board crowded shuttle buses.

One Reddit user shared how a stranger behind them reached toward their friend’s bag. When the friend turned, the person commented on her hair length to distract from her actions, ultimately stepping off the bus after attempting the theft.

Credit: MyFrozenLife, Flickr

Not only have similar incidents been reported on shuttle buses, but pickpockets have been known to target unattended strollers and bags within the parks themselves. Disneyland Paris has responded by broadcasting frequent warnings at the Marne-la-Vallée train station and other key locations around the park, advising guests to stay alert.

For travelers headed to Disneyland Paris or any major theme park, a bit of extra caution goes a long way. While Disney works to offer a magical escape, guests should take steps to protect their valuables, remaining vigilant amid the excitement.

Have you experienced a similar issue during your Disney visit? Share your story in the comments below.