Czech Republic 2019 Crime & Safety Report - OSAC

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Czech Republic 2019 Crime & Safety Report

This is an annual report produced in conjunction with the Regional Security Office at the U.S.
Embassy in Prague, Czech Republic.

The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication
assesses the Czech Republic at Level 1, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation

The U.S. Embassy in Prague does not assume responsibility for the professional ability or integrity
of the persons or firms appearing in this report. The American Citizens’ Services unit (ACS) cannot
recommend a particular individual or location, and assumes no responsibility for the quality of
service provided.

Review OSAC’s Prague-specific page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and
contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with
an OSAC password.

Crime Threats

There is moderate risk from crime in Prague. The most common crimes are theft and other
economically motivated offenses. Visitors are most likely to face petty street crime, particularly
pickpocketing and ATM card skimming. These incidents frequently occur in crowded tourist
locations or on public transportation such as buses, trains, subways, and trams. Some of the more
popular tourist spots are the Charles Bridge area, Wenceslas square, Old Town square, and
Prague Castle; pickpockets and scam artists favor these locations. Pickpockets may operate in
groups or as individuals. Members of these rings can vary in age, gender, and appearance. For
example, there are reports of pickpockets operating while dressed in business attire, posing as
panhandlers, carrying babies, and posing as tourists. They often distract the victim on the street
or jostle them on a crowded tram while stealing their wallet or valuables. Mobile phones are also
an attractive target for thieves. Most victims of pickpockets report being unaware of the incident
taking place, and realize it only after the fact. There are also recent reports of purse snatching
and criminals subtly lifting handbags off chairs while victims sit at restaurants, cafes, and bars.
When transiting the country on trains (particularly the Prague-Vienna route), there have been
reports of surreptitious thefts of bags and valuables from luggage bins and/or when they have left
bags unattended (including when the owner is asleep).

Violent or confrontational crime is rare in the Czech Republic. Criminals rarely use violence or the
threat of violence to perpetrate a crime, but since they could arm themselves with simple weapons
such as knives, avoid direct confrontation.

The contents of this (U) presentation in no way represent the policies, views, or attitudes of the United States Department of
State, or the United States Government, except as otherwise noted (e.g., travel advisories, public statements). The presentation
was compiled from various open sources and (U) embassy reporting. note that all OSAC products are for internal U.S. private
sector security purposes only. Publishing or otherwise distributing OSAC-derived information in a manner inconsistent with this
policy may result in the discontinuation of OSAC support.
1

ATMs are widely available throughout major cities in the Czech Republic. Change money only at
banks, legitimate businesses, or ATMs. An offer to change money by an unknown person on the
street is most likely a scam. Almost all ATMs have multilingual instructions and allow access to
U.S. bank accounts. There are multiple ongoing investigations into groups illegally obtaining
users’ ATM card numbers and PIN codes by “skimming” the information from cards at public
ATMs. Card skimming involves the attachment of electronic devices on/around the ATM to
capture the magnetic strip data contained on the back of a debit card, as well as the user’s PIN.
This activity has reportedly occurred at ATMs in public areas, including in bank lobbies covered
by security cameras. Skimming can also occur when swiping a card to access bank lobbies. Use
machines at more secure or heavily traveled and monitored locations, to include commercial
banks, large hotels, and the airport. Attempt to use a different card to open lobby doors than the
one used inside. Many door-access devices will permit entry with any card that has a magnetic
strip (e.g. gift cards). Some ATMs have a green translucent security device at the card input. Be
sure to inspect the machine for anything installed over/around the PIN pad. Look for an
attachment that contains a small hole pointed in the direction of the PIN pad. Lightly pull the card
slot. Look for signs of tampering, including a loose, detached, or flexible card slot. Look for glue
or tape around card slot. Many times, criminals hastily install these skimming devices and intend
to remove them quickly. Cover the keypad while typing the PIN and be alert for suspicious
individuals loitering in the area. For more information, review OSAC’s Report, The Overseas
Traveler’s Guide to ATM Skimmers & Fraud.

Credit card fraud and identification theft are no less prevalent in the Czech Republic than most
other European locations. It is a good standard practice to shred ATM/bank receipts/statements
to reduce opportunities for ID theft. Do not give your credit card number over the telephone unless
you initiated the call. When providing a credit card at point of sale, ensure it remains in line of
sight throughout the transaction. Restaurants that permit payment by credit card use hand-held,
mobile payment machines that allow completion of the transaction at the table. Check bank
accounts regularly and notify the bank of discrepancies immediately. Keep a list of telephone
numbers to call to report the loss or theft of wallet or credit cards.

Auto thefts and break-ins are common, especially in major cities such as Prague. Use parking
garages and some type of anti-theft device. Keep personal belongings, to include recharging
cords, out of plain sight. Exposed cords give the impression that a phone or GPS is in the car.
Criminals steal vehicles for re-sale or for dismantlement and sale of parts locally or abroad. The
Czech Republic also serves as a transit route for stolen cars from Western Europe. The recovery
rate of stolen vehicles, as with most stolen property, is extremely low.

There has been a surge of residential burglaries in recent years. Keep valuables and important
documents in a safe. In many residential neighborhoods in Prague, vagrants commonly
panhandle or beg for gratuities, especially during December and January. Do not to open your
door to vagrants. Avoid pulling out wallets or purses to give money to panhandlers on the street,
as this may set you as the target of a pickpocket. Grocery delivery services are widely available,
and popular with the expatriate community; however, do not leave delivery personnel unattended
in your home. Delivery personnel have committed theft in the lobby of residences, taking
advantage of the opportunity while the resident went to retrieve a wallet, etc.

Cybersecurity Issues

Czech law provides a roadmap for the development of cyber capability. The Czech equivalent of
the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) is the National Security Authority or NBU (Národní
bezpečnostní úřad). The NBU is responsible for cyber security, defined as the securing and
protection of government and critical infrastructure computers and networks. Police have
responsibility for investigation and mitigation of cyber incidents.

The Czech National Cyber and Information Office in Brno has over 100 employees. Detached
from the NBU, the agency is already generating reports, such as a December 2018 press release
titled Software and hardware of Huawei and ZTE is a security threat.

Other Areas of Concern

Czech bars and dance clubs are generally safe. However, locals have approached tourists to sell
illicit drugs. Although enforcement may vary, commerce in illegal substances is against the law.
Security at nightclubs could respond more forcefully than at similar venues in the U.S. Avoid
altercations with bar personnel or other patrons.

Gaming establishments are prevalent. Casinos are government-regulated, but there is a high
likelihood they either are attractive business opportunities for organized crime, or already have
affiliations with organized crime elements.

Exercise increased caution late at night at bars, strip clubs, and casinos off Wenceslas Square
(Václavské náměstí), and at Karlovy lázně nightclub near the Charles Bridge. Use of “date rape”
drugs such as Rohypnol has occurred at local bars and clubs tourists frequent, often reportedly
to disable victims for robbery and/or sexual assault. Do not leave drinks unattended or accept
drinks from anyone other than a server or bartender. A common practice is for someone to ask
an unsuspecting bar patron to “taste” their mixed drink, which is spiked with some type of drug.
For more information, review OSAC’s Report Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad.

Transportation-Safety Situation

For more information, review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and
Overnights.

Road Safety and Road Conditions

Drivers may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the U.S. The Road
Safety Annual Report (2018), published cooperatively by The Organization for Economic Co-
operation and Development (OECD), the International Transport Forum, and the International
Traffic Safety Data and Analysis Group has consistently reported that overall road safety in the
Czech Republic is among the weakest in Europe. One catalyst is that traffic volume, including
truck traffic has significantly increased because of the economic recovery. In an effort to improve
road conditions, many highways and secondary roads are under construction, exacerbating
problem areas.

Driving speeds on European highways are higher than in the U.S. Stay in the right lane except
when passing. Highways generally meet European standards; however, on two-lane roads, be
prepared to encounter uneven surfaces, irregular lane markings, and unclear sign placements.
Streets in towns are not always in good condition. Pay special attention when driving on
cobblestone and among streetcars in historic city centers. Rain, ice, and snow on cobblestone
streets create conditions far slicker than on asphalt. Traffic lights are placed before the
intersection, so be aware of where to stop. Speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in towns, 90 km/h
(55 mph) outside of towns, and 130 km/h (80 mph) on highways, unless posted otherwise – but
drivers routinely flout the limits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) must accompany a U.S.
driver’s license; failure to have the IDP with a valid license may result in denial of an insurance
claim after an accident.

Vehicles must display a toll sticker (vignette) to drive legally on major highways. Signs near the
border state this requirement, but are easy to miss. The stickers are available at most gas stations.
Authorities assess the fine for failing to display a toll sticker on the spot.

Czech law requires that drivers always have their headlights on. The law also requires that all
private cars carry each of the following items: fluorescent green high visibility safety jacket, first
aid kit, spare pair of prescription glasses kept in the glove compartment (if necessary), warning
triangle, and complete set of spare bulbs. Rental cars have these items in the vehicles, but it is
best to confirm.

Czech law allows for breathalyzer testing of drivers stopped by local law enforcement officials for
any reason. There is a zero-tolerance policy, which means that driving with any trace of detected
alcohol, however slight, is illegal; those caught usually face immediate fines and possible criminal
proceedings.

In tandem with the increased number of vehicles on the road, the amount of pedestrian and cycle
traffic has also grown. This has led to a jump in pedestrian and cyclist injury/fatalities. Since 2015,
there has been a 25% increase in cyclist fatalities and a 15% increase in pedestrian fatalities.
This is partially due to a lack of adherence to basic traffic laws. Cyclists and pedestrians should
always be familiar with rules of the road, compulsory equipment, rules for riding with children, and
rules for riding in or near motorized traffic. Pedestrians often have the right of way at crosswalks,
but should exercise caution since drivers often speed through intersections without looking.

For specific information concerning Czech requirements for driver’s permits, vehicle inspection,
road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the Czech Tourist Authority offices in New York by
telephone at (212) 288-0830 or by email. Visit the website of the Czech Republic’s national tourist
office and the Ministry of Transport. For more information on self-driving, review OSAC’s Report
Driving Overseas: Best Practices.

Public Transportation Conditions

Public transportation is safe and reliable, but travelers should be aware of the prevalence of
pickpockets. Passengers on public transportation should buy a ticket prior to boarding to avoid
fines. Validate your ticket at the outset of the trip by inserting it into the yellow box found on trams
and buses, and in the entry halls of Metro stations. In Prague, ticket offices are located in many
Metro stations. Travelers can purchase at tabak shops (cigarette stands), newspaper stands, post
offices, metro station vending machines, and major tram stops. Travelers who do not validate
their tickets face the possibility of encountering a transportation inspector who operates in plain
clothes and will display a small metal badge (emblazoned with the words “Prepravní Kontrola”)
when inspecting tickets. Fines range from 50 to 1,500 CZK. The standard on-the-spot payment
for traveling without a valid ticket is 800 CZK. Inspectors should provide a receipt upon payment.

Travel by taxi is generally safe and reliable. Always use taxis that are clearly marked, but remain
alert to the potential for taxi drivers to charge unsuspecting foreigners more than the standard
rate, particularly in tourist areas. The best approach for obtaining a taxi is to call the company
directly rather than hail one on the street; this ensures that the company’s dispatcher logs the
ride. Taxis should be clearly marked (ideally with a permanently installed roof lamp and taxi sign)
and must include the driver’s personal information the registration number, company name, and
price list on the doors. Taxi drivers should use a meter and provide a receipt (from the meter)
upon completion of the trip. Visitors may also obtain a taxi at one of the "Fair Place" taxi stands
regulated by the Prague municipality. The main taxi stand at the airport has generally proven
reliable. Avoid using taxis managed by individuals who approach them inside the airport or away
from the main taxi queue. Fares from the airport to the city center should cost approximately
600CZK or less.

Uber is also widely available in Prague and most other large Czech cities. Uber is dependable
and is an alternative transportation choice due to the prepayment option. Issues arising from Uber
use have been no more prevalent than those encountered in the U.S. For more information on
ride sharing, review OSAC’s Annual Briefing Report Safety and Security in the Share Economy.

Aviation/Airport Conditions

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Czech
Republic’s Civil Aviation Authority as compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) aviation safety standards for Czech air carrier operations. Security at the airport, to include
screening of baggage and passengers, is generally very good.

Terrorism Threat

Local, Regional, and International Terrorism Threats/Concerns

There is minimal risk from terrorism in Prague. Despite the relatively low threat for terrorist activity,
widely reported incidents in France, Russia, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Spain, Finland,
Turkey, and Germany demonstrate that terrorist organizations such as ISIS and al-Qa’ida, and
their affiliates have the ability to plan and execute terrorist attacks in Europe. While local
governments continue counterterrorism operations, the degrading of ISIS’s centralized command
structure has given rise to more independent or “lone wolf” style attacks. There is still a possibility
that returning (terrorist affiliated) foreign fighters, terrorist sympathizers, self-radicalized
extremists, or opportunity-driven malcontents may conduct attacks with little or no warning.

Extremists continue to focus on locations where large numbers of people gather. These include
tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities. In
addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational
institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks. Those
who plan to visit these locations should remain aware of their surroundings, have an exit plan,
and think about where they may find cover if an incident were to occur unexpectedly.

Terrorists persist in employing a variety of tactics, including firearms, explosives, ramming
vehicles, and edged weapons that are difficult to detect prior to an attack. Credible information
indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Europe. The Czech Republic is part
of the Schengen Zone, which has virtually eliminated travel checks between the 26 European
member states.

Political, Economic, Religious, and Ethnic Violence

Civil Unrest

There is minimal risk from civil unrest in Prague. Civil disorder is rare, although strikes and
demonstrations do occur. Depending on the number of people, protests could affect traffic flow
and pedestrian movements around gathering points. There is a requirement for demonstration
organizers to notify Prague City Hall in advance, allowing police to prepare for these events and
respond in a competent and professional manner. On rare occasions, spontaneous
demonstrations have occurred, usually around Palackého náměstí in Prague 2, where advance
notification is not required. Unless demonstrators are breaking laws or causing an excessive
disturbance, authorities are disinclined to disband a peaceable protest, even if they have not given
a prior notification.

Soccer matches are well-attended events in Prague and other locations around the Czech
Republic. Rival matches have resulted in disorderly conduct, arrests, and injuries to bystanders.
Authorities prepare for the possibility of violence and/or disruptive behavior during these matches.
It is not uncommon to see a large police presence staged near soccer stadiums during games.
Travel to games or near stadiums during rival matches should take into consideration that
confrontations between rival groups of fans and rowdy pre- and post-match celebrations may
occur. Even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.
Avoid areas of unruly gatherings, and exercise caution if near any such events.

Post-specific Concerns

Environmental Hazards

The Czech Republic continues to improve on legacy environmental damage caused by industry,
mining, and agriculture, all of which had a major impact on water resources and air quality.
Specifically, the Czech Republic is still recuperating from sulfur dioxide emissions that resulted
from the use of lignite (brown coal) as an energy source in the former Czechoslovakia.

The Czech Republic has made international commitments regarding the reduction of greenhouse
gas emissions, but it is unclear how the country will balance this need with the expansion of
industry.

Critical Infrastructure

Environmental crises such as flooding have greatly affected Prague. After major flooding in 2002
and 2013, Prague expended significant resources to improve fixed and mobile barriers as well as
pumping systems/safety valves along the Vltava River. The government has made major
improvements to the country’s emergency response capability. This includes implementation of
an integrated rescue system, which coordinates police, fire, and medical efforts through multiple
command centers positioned around the country. This system coordinates the nationwide
allocation of available resources to areas most affected by environmental, safety, and/or security
issues. This response can also expand to include municipal police and military personnel.

Personal Identity Concerns

The Czech Republic prioritizes its citizen’s privacy and affords strict protections to them with its
privacy laws. There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of
LGBTI events in Czech Republic. Outside of Prague, particularly in small towns, such relations or
events are less accepted. LGBTI travelers should use discretion when traveling in these areas.
See our LGBTI travel information page and section six of the Department of State's Human Rights
Report for further details.

Individuals may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what you find in the U.S.
The law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in employment, education,
access to health care, and other state services. These provisions are generally enforced.

 Many buses and streetcars—especially in Prague—are accessible for those with special
needs.
 72% of Prague's metro stations are accessible to persons with disabilities; work to expand
barrier-free access is ongoing.
 Taxi services for persons with limited mobility exist. There are several companies offering
such services in Prague, and some service areas outside Prague.
 Much of the center of Prague is centuries old, with narrow cobblestone streets that may
make accessibility difficult or impossible.
 Accessibility outside of Prague is generally less available.

Drug-related Crimes

The sale, possession, or use of illicit drugs is against the law. Authorities generally overlook the
personal use and possession of marijuana, so travelers may encounter it.

Police Response

U.S. citizens are subject to local laws. Foreign laws and legal systems can be vastly different from
those in the U.S. Local police can require travelers to produce identification to establish identity
upon request and submit them to further questioning. If U.S. citizens break local laws, their U.S.
passport will not help them avoid arrest or prosecution.

How to Handle Incidents of Police Detention or Harassment

Authorities are required to notify the U.S. Embassy in Prague if they arrest a U.S. citizen. If
travelers are concerned the Embassy may not be aware of their situation, they should request
that the police or prison officials notify the U.S. Embassy.

Crime Victim Assistance

U.S. victims of crime abroad should contact the local police and the U.S. Embassy.

The local equivalent to 911 is 112. The Czech Republic has English-speaking operators available
24/7.

For local first responders, refer to the Embassy’s Emergency Assistance page.

Police/Security Agencies

The Ministry of Interior governs the Czech police, whose headquarters is located at the Police
Presidium in Prague. There are generally two categories of police: the Czech Republic National
Police Force and local city police forces, called – Městská Policie (Municipal police).

Medical Emergencies

While significant differences do exist between U.S. and Czech medical systems, many outdated
misconceptions and fears about post-communist medical treatment may linger.

The Czech medical system is no longer entirely socialized; it is partially government-run and
partially private. There are a number of Western-trained doctors operating in Prague.

Czech medical staff maintain a standard of cleanliness (for example, many require that you wear
disposable shoe coverings in the hospitals).

The Czech philosophy of medical care and the doctor-patient relationship tend to take more of a
European approach. That is, the doctor will be less likely to share information about the patient’s
condition with the patient than is generally the case in the U.S. This is a cultural difference and
not a deficiency in medical care.

The Czech medical system organized differently than in the U.S.; for instance, there is not a single
central emergency room. Emergencies are often sent to the facility that treats the specific medical
condition (i.e., broken noses are sent to the ear, nose, and throat facility). It is not uncommon to
find closed doors (where patients should knock or ring for service) rather than an open nursing
station.

Travelers should deal with life-threatening emergencies in Prague and Brno by calling Záchranná
Služba (emergency services) at 112, specifying that they require a physician.

The emergency services physician will generally send the patient by ambulance to the nearest
hospital best equipped to deal with the specific type of emergency. Patients can always request
a different health facility after their condition has stabilized. Patients will incur charges for services,
including transportation to the health care facilities. Ambulance charges are approximately
US$200, payable by cash or credit card.

Contact Information for Available Medical Services

For medical assistance, refer to the Embassy’s Medical Assistance page.

Insurance Guidance

Foreigners who use Czech medical facilities should expect to pay for their care. The U.S.
Embassy in Prague cannot guarantee payment or otherwise take financial responsibility for the
medical care of private citizens. Medicare does not cover overseas treatment. Providers may not
accept credit cards, and usually will not accept U.S. insurance.

Generally, patients who have overseas insurance coverage should expect to pay the bill and then
seek reimbursement from their insurance company. Contact your health insurance company
directly to find out if your policy includes overseas coverage.

Country-specific Vaccination and Health Guidance

The CDC offers additional information on vaccines and health guidance for the Czech Republic.

OSAC Country Council Information

There is no OSAC Country Council in the Czech Republic. Interested private-sector security
managers should contact OSAC’s Europe Team with any questions.

U.S. Embassy Location and Contact Information

Embassy Address and Hours of Operation

Tržiště 15, 118 01 Praha 1 – Malá Strana
Hours of Operation: 0800 to 1630 Monday-Friday

Embassy Contact Numbers

Embassy Contact Number: 420-257-022-000
Website: https://cz.usembassy.gov/cs/

Embassy Guidance

U.S. citizens traveling in the Czech Republic are encouraged to register in the Smart Traveler
Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service that helps the U.S. Embassy disseminate
information about safety conditions and contact travelers in an emergency.

Additional Resources

Czech Republic Country Information Sheet

  The contents of this (U) presentation in no way represent the policies, views, or attitudes of the United States Department of
 State, or the United States Government, except as otherwise noted (e.g., travel advisories, public statements). The presentation
 was compiled from various open sources and (U) embassy reporting. note that all OSAC products are for internal U.S. private
sector security purposes only. Publishing or otherwise distributing OSAC-derived information in a manner inconsistent with this
                                   policy may result in the discontinuation of OSAC support.
                                                                                                                              10

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