Scam in GuatemalaTheft
Phone theft in Guatemala
How it works
Thieves steal phones. Phone theft is described as the country's most common crime. Showing phones, cameras or laptops can also draw attention to your other valuables.
Warning signs
- Your phone is visible and easy to grab.
- You are using expensive electronics in public.
How to avoid it
- Keep your phone out of sight when you do not need it.
- Step into a secure place before checking directions.
- Avoid displaying expensive cameras, laptops or jewellery.
If it happens to you
Do not chase or fight the thief. Once safe, lock the phone remotely, contact your mobile provider and secure important accounts.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone threatens you with a weapon, do not resist.
- Check whether anyone is injured. Seek medical help if needed.
- Freeze stolen cards and contact your card issuer about disputed withdrawals. Lock a stolen phone remotely and contact your mobile provider.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, vehicle details and amounts. Save receipts and screenshots without confronting the person involved.
- Report the incident to police. In Antigua, ask the Tourist Police for help. Request a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing or you need serious assistance, 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.
Questions
What is the phone theft scam in Guatemala?
Thieves steal phones. Phone theft is described as the country's most common crime. Showing phones, cameras or laptops can also draw attention to your other valuables.
How can I spot it early?
Your phone is visible and easy to grab. You are using expensive electronics in public.
How do I avoid phone theft in Guatemala?
Keep your phone out of sight when you do not need it. Step into a secure place before checking directions. Avoid displaying expensive cameras, laptops or jewellery.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not chase or fight the thief. Once safe, lock the phone remotely, contact your mobile provider and secure important accounts.
Where in Guatemala does this happen?
Public places across Guatemala
How common is this scam in Guatemala?
Very common. The main risks in Guatemala are theft, armed robbery, unsafe taxi rides and inflated fares. Phone theft is especially common, while some cash machines in Flores have reported fee and withdrawal problems. Risk varies by place: Antigua's centre is safer in daylight, and Flores island is described as very safe.
Are there similar scams in Guatemala?
Yes: armed robbery, road robbery and carjacking, pickpocketing in crowds.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report robbery, theft, kidnapping or fraud once you are safe. Ask your accommodation to help you reach police and request a written report or reference number. Tourist Police in Antigua: ask for help with an incident in Antigua. Your accommodation can help you find them. Card issuer or bank: use the contact details in your banking app or on your card. Freeze stolen cards and report ATM debits without cash or other disputed transactions. Taxi Amarillo / Amarillo Express: for a complaint about a booked ride, contact 1766 or servicioalcliente@amarilloexpress.com. Keep your booking and trip details. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen, someone is being held or you need serious assistance. Travel insurer: use your policy's assistance or claims contact. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses.
Reviewed by @snuck