The crime rate in New York City has dropped dramatically in recent years, making it one if the safest large cities in the world. But one can never be too careful. 

1. Carry your wallet in an inside jacket pocket or side trouser pocket, never in a rear pocket.
2. Carry pocketbooks in the bend of your elbow, close to your body. If the strap is long, wrap it around the bag. Carry credit cards and cash in your pockets.
3. When dining out, keep pocketbooks on your lap, not dangling over the back of a chair.
4. Leave valuables and important papers, such as jewelry and passports, in your hotel's safe deposit box. Never carry large sums of cash.
5. Be wary of unexpected persons coming to your hotel room. Never open the door to unsolicited room service or maintenance persons. Contact the front desk if you have any doubts.
6. Schedule meetings in a public place, such as a café, a restaurant or a shop.
7. Make sure luggage is given only to a member of the hotel's bell staff. Never leave luggage or other expensive items unattended at airports or taxi stands.
8. If you choose to use a car service, contact a specific company directly. Never enter an unsolicited "car service" vehicle offering to take you to your destination. Yellow medallion taxis are the only vehicles permitted to pick up fares on the streets.
9. When driving, be wary of other motorists warning you of a mechanical problem or flat tire. This may be a ruse to get you stop.
10. Remember that no one will give you something for nothing. Be aware of con artists and pickpoñkets.

Finally, if you are in need of immediate police assistance, dial 911.