This is just my opinion based on experience, but I would bet that pickpocket rates drop quite a bit in the low season. Not because there are less tourists but because it is cold out.
In the summer you wear less clothing and are forced to carry important stuff in bags that can be lifted quite easily.
If you are wearing a jacket with zip pockets or whatever, those are much more difficult to access without noticing.
I think Rome is considered one of the worst for pickpockets, I was there in March, when it was cool. I'm pretty sure I stood out as a tourist. I carried everything in the zip pockets of my jacket and I didn't have a problem at all.
As always being smart is the most important. Also small deterrents go a long way.
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