Scam in PeruTheft
Kidnapping to force cash withdrawals in Peru
How it works
Criminals hold a traveller and force them to withdraw money with their cards. Some victims have been forced to make withdrawals over several days.
Warning signs
- Someone threatens you and demands your cards or PIN.
- You are forced into a vehicle or prevented from leaving.
How to avoid it
- Carry only the cards you need that day.
- Keep spare cards secure at your accommodation.
- Avoid displaying cards, cash or other valuables.
- Use trusted transport.
If it happens to you
Prioritise survival and avoid escalating threats. Once free and safe, contact emergency services and your card issuer immediately.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone is threatening you, prioritise your safety over belongings.
- For immediate danger or injury, call emergency services. Avoid chasing thieves or confronting armed people.
- Block stolen cards and contact your bank about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone and secure affected accounts.
- Save receipts, booking messages and transaction details. Write down the time, location and any vehicle details you safely remember.
- Report the incident to police and ask how to obtain a report copy. Keep the report for insurance or a payment dispute.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement-document advice.
Questions
What is the kidnapping to force cash withdrawals scam in Peru?
Criminals hold a traveller and force them to withdraw money with their cards. Some victims have been forced to make withdrawals over several days.
How can I spot it early?
Someone threatens you and demands your cards or PIN. You are forced into a vehicle or prevented from leaving.
How do I avoid kidnapping to force cash withdrawals in Peru?
Carry only the cards you need that day. Keep spare cards secure at your accommodation. Avoid displaying cards, cash or other valuables. Use trusted transport.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Prioritise survival and avoid escalating threats. Once free and safe, contact emergency services and your card issuer immediately.
How common is this scam in Peru?
Occasional. Petty theft is a concern in Peru, and armed robberies of tourists are described as fairly common. Taxi robberies, inflated fares, misleading touts and false money are the main risks to prepare for. Choose transport carefully, check prices before paying and keep valuables out of sight.
Are there similar scams in Peru?
Yes: pickpocketing and theft of belongings, armed street robbery.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: dial 911 for an emergency. The older number 105 can also connect you with police. Tourist police: ask tourist police for help in person. They are described as wearing white shirts and normally speaking English. They are present in downtown Arequipa. Police: report theft, robbery or fraud and request a report. To obtain a copy, the stated process requires paying S/3 at Banco de la Nación during working days. Serenazgo: in Lima and some larger cities, ask this local police service for help. It does not provide tourist-focused services. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block cards, report unauthorised transactions and ask about a dispute. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Use its official contact details. Travel insurer: contact the claims or emergency-assistance team. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses. Transport company, booking seller or shop: raise a complaint through the business's official contact channel. Provide your receipt, booking details and the price or service you agreed.
What number do I call in an emergency in Peru?
All emergency services: 911, Police, older number: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck