just how dangerous is papua new guinea

I'm currently wandering around Australia, and whenever I mention Papua New Guinea, the only comment I get is how dangerous it is. I've traveled most of the world and am looking for something a bit different, but still, I don't want to be dumb.
First question, how does a single person travel the island with a reasonable assurance that they are not going to get mugged or robbed?
Second, would it be dumb to hire a local guide, and if its not dumb, how do you find one that does not them self become part of the problem?

Thanks in advance for your help!!

just take normal precautions and for the visitor papua is no more dangerous than any other country
aussies like to talk up the dangers - random violence can happen anywhere and kings cross
sydney on a saturday night can be bad !

there are parts of moresby, lae and hagen where you shouldnt go and be careful anywhere after dark

hire a local guide - just ask around in the smaller towns and villages everyone knows
each other and will vouch for any guide - just be clear what you expect to get and to pay
and dont pay all upfront