Scam in Turks and Caicos IslandsTheft
Home invasion in Turks and Caicos Islands
How it works
An intruder enters an occupied property, potentially using force or threats. Home invasions were described as common in a January 2018 warning; their current frequency is unclear.
Warning signs
- An unfamiliar person asks you to open your door.
- Someone tries to force a door or enter without permission.
How to avoid it
- Keep accommodation doors locked.
- Do not open the door to unfamiliar people.
- Check unexpected visitors with reception or your host before opening.
If it happens to you
Do not confront or resist an intruder. Move to safety if possible and call 911 when it is safe.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or resist a robbery.
- Call 911 if you are in danger or need emergency help. Otherwise, report the incident promptly to the Royal Turks and Caicos Police on 338 5901.
- Contact your card issuer immediately if a card or its details were stolen. Ask it to block the card and review disputed charges.
- Save receipts, booking details, messages and vehicle details. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Ask for a police report reference. Contact your insurer, rental company or accommodation as relevant, and your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen.
Questions
What is the home invasion scam in Turks and Caicos Islands?
An intruder enters an occupied property, potentially using force or threats. Home invasions were described as common in a January 2018 warning; their current frequency is unclear.
How can I spot it early?
An unfamiliar person asks you to open your door. Someone tries to force a door or enter without permission.
How do I avoid home invasion in Turks and Caicos Islands?
Keep accommodation doors locked. Do not open the door to unfamiliar people. Check unexpected visitors with reception or your host before opening.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not confront or resist an intruder. Move to safety if possible and call 911 when it is safe.
Where in Turks and Caicos Islands does this happen?
Homes and accommodation; no specific locations are identified.
How common is this scam in Turks and Caicos Islands?
Common. Some taxi drivers try to overcharge visitors travelling from Providenciales Airport to Grace Bay. Theft, armed robbery and home invasions are also concerns, but there is not enough information to give a reliable current rate of tourist scams.
Are there similar scams in Turks and Caicos Islands?
Yes: armed robbery, theft of unattended valuables, moped and motorcycle theft.
Who can I report it to?
Royal Turks and Caicos Police: report problems promptly. Call 911 in an emergency or 338 5901 for a non-emergency. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block a stolen card and report unauthorised charges. Accommodation or rental company: tell reception, your host or the rental company about theft involving their property or vehicle. Share the police report reference. Travel insurer: use the claims contact in your policy. Keep receipts, evidence and the police report reference. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Turks and Caicos Islands?
Emergency assistance: 911, Royal Turks and Caicos Police — non-emergency: 338 5901.
Reviewed by @snuck