Upvote:3
Having lived in China for seven years, I have to say crime is not common here. However, there are certain places that are noted for crime. For example Xi'an has a bad reputation and I know several people who have lost money and cameras in that city. Xi'an is also a major tourist destination which exacerbates things.
Generally people who lost things elsewhere did so through carelessness. For example, leaving a cellphone on the table when going to the rest room, come back and it's gone. Oh, and it will be gone. Don't think you might be lucky/unlucky. Leave something unattended and it will go.
Last year I got two pairs of boxer shorts which have zipped pockets on them. I can safely keep money inside those pockets because you literally have to remove my trousers to get into them. However, not the most convenient thing when shopping.