Scam in CuraçaoTheft
Car break-ins in Curaçao
How it works
Thieves break into parked cars to steal belongings. Some rental agencies prohibit parking their cars at certain places because of this problem.
Warning signs
- Your rental agency warns you against parking at a particular place.
- Bags or valuables are visible inside the car.
How to avoid it
- Never leave valuables in a car.
- Follow your rental agency's parking restrictions.
- Take bags with you whenever you park.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and contact the rental agency. Photograph the damage and keep the report for any insurance claim.
- Move somewhere safe. Avoid chasing or confronting the person.
- If a card or payment details were stolen, freeze the card and contact the issuer immediately.
- Save receipts, messages, booking details and photos. Write down what happened while you remember it.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or a copy.
- Contact the business, rental agency or booking provider involved. Explain the problem and request a remedy.
- Contact your insurer if covered. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/scuba2026Car break-in while shore diving in Curacao?A visiting diver says locals warned of break-ins at Tugboat Beach, although the traveller personally experienced no theft.Read on Reddit
- Government advice2026Travel advice and advisories for CuraçaoCanada’s travel advisory reports theft from vehicles in Curaçao and advises visitors against leaving valuables unattended inside them.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the car break-ins scam in Curaçao?
Thieves break into parked cars to steal belongings. Some rental agencies prohibit parking their cars at certain places because of this problem.
How can I spot it early?
Your rental agency warns you against parking at a particular place. Bags or valuables are visible inside the car.
How do I avoid car break-ins in Curaçao?
Never leave valuables in a car. Follow your rental agency's parking restrictions. Take bags with you whenever you park.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and contact the rental agency. Photograph the damage and keep the report for any insurance claim.
Where in Curaçao does this happen?
Parked cars across the island; no specific locations are named.
How common is this scam in Curaçao?
Common. Curaçao is generally safe for visitors, but car break-ins are a recurring problem. Tourist shopping can involve high prices and goods of uncertain quality or authenticity, especially in Punda. Tourists may also receive unwanted drug offers.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, car break-ins or suspected fraud. Provide the location, time and any evidence. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or a trusted contact number to freeze a stolen card, report unauthorised payments or ask about a payment dispute. Car rental agency: use the contact details in your rental agreement to report a break-in or damage and ask what to do next. Shop, restaurant or other business: show your receipt and explain any difference from the agreed price or product description. Request a correction or refund. Travel insurer: contact the claims service listed in your policy. Keep receipts, police reports and evidence of the loss. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen, or you need consular help.
Reviewed by @snuck