I just wanted to say after reading all the posts about thieves in Paris I was dreading my vacation. I had visions of everyone trying to tackle me and steal my money.
Please, if you are worrying as I was, there is nothing to worry about.
Yes, I saw all the "tricks" I read about, but very easy to avoid.
I could have been in any other big city. It is all common sense. Be aware of your surroundings as you would anywhere.
My family had a very enjoyable time, and we never encountered anything that frightened us.
I just don't want anyone stressing about it like I was as it took away from my excitement of planning my trip.
We rode the metro with zero problems and went to see the sites without any trouble. If you have ever been to a city, be it New York, San Francisco, it is all the same as far as people go. Good ,bad, etc.
Have fun!