KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany — The twinkling lights, Christmas music, enticing smells of fire-roasted sausage and hot mulled wine all put visitors to Christmas markets in the mood for giving.

But the distractions of all those sights, sounds and smells could find them giving more than they intend.

Christmas markets attract pickpockets, who take advantage of the crush of people and generous holiday mood.

Rhineland-Pfalz police are warning visitors to Christmas markets, crowded stores and train stations to keep a close hold on their wallets, offering the following tips:

Carry only as much cash as you need. Carry cash and credit cards in various closed pockets as close to your body as possible. Keep your purse or bag closed across the front of your body or firmly clamped under your arm. Never leave your bag or jacket unattended. Pay particular attention to your valuables in a crowd. If you are the victim of a theft or see suspicious activity, call the police at: 110.news@stripes.com