【Safety in Norway】Stay alert and enjoy your trip to Norway!
Norway is generally a safe country, but that does not mean there is an absolute guarantee of safety. Never forget that traveling abroad can make you a potential target for crime, and take sufficient precautions.
Even in Norway travelers have been victims of theft and pickpocketing while on overseas trips. The number of such incidents is especially high in the capital city, Oslo.
More recently, a series of terrorist attacks occurred in Oslo in July 2011. In addition to that, there have also been cases of monetary theft near ATMs and incidents of rape involving women walking alone at night. As long as you stay vigilant and avoid letting your guard down too much, you can travel safely in Norway.
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【Safety in Norway】Stay alert and enjoy your trip to Norway!
1. Beware of theft in public places (airports, hotels, restaurants, stations, buses, train, etc.)
In Norway, it seems that many tourists fall victim to theft at Oslo Central Station as well as in nearby hotels and restaurants. There have been reports of incidents where, during a buffet-style breakfast at a hotel, a guest leaves their room key on the table while going to get food, only to have the key stolen and their room burglarized.
At hotels and airports, there are also cases where thieves pretend to drop something, ask for directions, or hand out flyers to get close to their target, and then steal bags placed casually at one’s feet or smartphones left on the table. On long-distance trains or buses, it is safer to keep valuables with you at all times rather than placing them on overhead racks.
2. Pickpocketing happens in Norway too! Be aware of their methods
Even in safe Norway, pickpocketing—common all over the world—occurs frequently. Typical methods include:
Pickpocketing targeting men: Stealing a smartphone or wallet from the back pocket of pants.
Distraction pickpocketing: Someone might tell you that your clothes are dirty, offer to help carry your luggage when you get off a vehicle, or start a friendly conversation; while you are distracted, an accomplice swiftly steals your valuables.
Pickpocketing in crowded places such as tourist spots, airports, stations, and shopping areas: Snatching items from a shoulder bag in a crowded location.
Use a bag with a zipper, always keep it closed, and be sure to take thorough care of your belongings.
3. The possibility of a terrorist threat cannot be ruled out
In Norway, no terrorist incidents have occurred since the 2011 government building bombing in Oslo and the mass shooting on Utøya Island. However, due to the ongoing situation in Syria and the actions of Islamic extremist groups such as ISIL, which have led to an influx of refugees into mainland Europe, the threat of terrorism continues to loom.
In terms of Norway’s security situation, there are small-scale far-right and far-left extremist groups, as well as Islamic radical organizations present in the country. There is also the possibility that fighters from Islamic radical groups could return to Norway and carry out terrorist acts domestically in the future. It is important to stay informed about terrorism and public safety situations on a daily basis and to take sufficient safety measures.
Currently, Norway is strengthening border checks within the Schengen Agreement area and strictly enforcing ID checks for ferry passengers.
◎ Summary
Although we have listed various dangers, Norway’s overall public safety is among the best in Europe, so as long as you remain attentive, you should be able to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. As simple precautions:
•Avoid walking alone at night. In particular, women should avoid walking alone in parks or on sparsely populated streets.
•Do not get involved in fights among drunken people in entertainment districts at night.
•Be cautious of organized crime.
•Take good care of valuables such as your passport, money, and smartphone.
Without letting the country’s safety lull you into a false sense of security, enjoy your time in Norway.
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