Distraction thefts are on the rise in Toronto, police urge vigilance as FIFA approaches

Police say they’ve arrested and charged 2 women after a violent distraction robbery in February

Toronto police say 'distraction thefts' are on the rise. Here's what you need to know

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, Toronto police say there’s been an increase in thefts this year wherein distraction is used as a tactic, and are urging residents and visitors to take precautions to protect themselves from being robbed.

A distraction theft is an incident where someone diverts the victim’s attention in order to steal valuable items such as cell phones, cash, wallets or jewelry, said Toronto police Supt. Ron Taverner at a news conference on Monday. It’s classified as a robbery if the incident is physically violent, he said.

Last year, there were 102 incidents of distraction theft and robbery reported in total, and this year there have already been 40 reported so far, said Taverner.

“As Toronto prepares to welcome visitors from around the world during the FIFA World Cup, it's important that residents and visitors alike remain aware of their surroundings and, in particular, in busy public spaces,” said Taverner.

Feds announce up to $145M for FIFA World Cup safety operations

2 arrested in February robbery, police say

At the news conference, Taverner announced the arrests of two women, ages 20 and 23, both from Romania, who are now facing charges including robbery with violence in relation to a distraction robbery that happened in February near Finch Avenue W. and Woodbine Downs Boulevard.

According to Taverner, the accused allegedly approached the victim, who was sitting in a car in a parking lot. One of the accused distracted the victim by offering her counterfeit jewelry and fake iPhone while the other forcefully removed several gold chains from the victim’s neck.

He said the victim sustained minor injuries in the robbery and said the levels of violence being used in incidents like this are particularly concerning.

“These suspects are alleged to have committed offences in areas in Halton Region, Hamilton, Montreal and potentially other jurisdictions," said Taverner.

Vincent Crisanti, councillor for Etobicoke North, joined Taverner at the news conference on Monday. He said in the last week he’s received around half a dozen calls from constituents reporting incidents of distraction thefts and robbery.

“The numbers have spiked in a very alarming manner,” he said.

Thieves 'rely on kindness': police

In most cases, perpetrators of these thefts work in pairs with one person distracting the target while the other commits the theft, Taverner said. He said thieves often target vulnerable populations, like the elderly.

“These suspects often rely on the kindness, politeness and trust of others to create the opportunities to steal,” he said. In some instances, he said children are used as a distraction.

To help protect themselves, Taverner said people should be aware of their surroundings, keep bags zipped and close to their bodies, avoid keeping valuables in back pockets and avoid putting bags or phones down on tables or chairs in public places.

“Be cautious when approached by strangers, particularly when they're overly friendly, persistent or attempting to place items on or in your hands,” he said.

“If something feels unusual or makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation,” he said.