. Pickpockets and "moto robos", purse snatching on wheels have become more commonplace. The increase in crime should not deter visitors, but does underscore the need to exercise caution.
Some areas of the city are safer than others, Boca for instance is an area that should only be visited during the day time, never alone at night. San Telmo has some dicey areas as well, particularly the further one wanders from Defensa, the main street in this zone. Recoleta,Barrio Norte are relatively safe neighborhoods where many people walk carefree in the evenings. Palermo Soho is relatively safe as well.
Buenos Aires has its fair share of impoverished persons, making it unwise to walk around with flashy jewelry and clothing. (Addition: you'll see tons of poor people collecting cardboard boxes, cans, etc on the streets, specially at night. These guys ARE NOT to fear. They are very unlikely to cause any harm and won't try to mug you. Most likely, they'll ignore you completely. Crime is committed mostly by professional criminals, robbing restaurants ar peak time, people leaving banks, and also partnering with taxi drivers. You should definitely be careful with taxis (use radiotaxis). Do not be affraid of the poor, they are just that, honest people trying to make a living). It is also not wise to flash expensive electronic equipment around or leave these things unattended on a table. Petty theft is an issue, violent crime is less common thou In Palermo petty theft and crime increased lately, there´s a clear feeling of insecurity among inhabitants of Alto Palermo.... There´s almost no police or (not enough) protection the area, visitors should be carefull especially near Alto Palermo Shopping and close blocks as there are gangs of teen agers, and armed criminals frequently assaulting close buldings. A shop in the area (3 blocks from the shopping) , was assaulted 17 (seventeen) times during the last 12 months......
Taking Radio Taxi's is another smart choice, any hotel desk staff will be more than happy to call one for you. Taking a street taxi is not a good idea. Overall, people should be aware of their surroundings in Buenos Aires, but should not let constant fear ruin their time in this beautiful city. Excercise caution and leave the flashy accessories at home or safely locked in the hotel safe. ENJOY!
