Scam in EcuadorTheft
Pickpocketing in crowds and on public transport in Ecuador
How it works
Thieves take money, phones or other belongings while passengers and people in crowds are distracted.
Warning signs
- A crowded bus or terminal makes it hard to watch your belongings.
- Your bag or pockets are within easy reach of other people.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag closed and in front of you.
- Keep money and phones out of easily reached pockets.
- Pay close attention to your belongings when boarding or leaving a bus.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Block any stolen cards.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or risk injury over belongings.
- Check for injuries and seek medical care if needed.
- Block stolen cards through your card issuer. Secure accounts and remotely lock a stolen phone if possible.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, payment records and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report the incident to police or tourist police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. 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/travel2023Careful on the bus in QuitoA traveller reports theft on a crowded Quito bus despite keeping a hand over a front pocket containing valuables.Read on Reddit
- Government adviceEcuador travel adviceCanada reports daily pickpocketing and bag snatching in major cities, including on city and intercity buses and at transport terminals.Read on Government advice
- Government adviceSafety and security - Ecuador travel advice - GOV.UKThe FCDO warns of pickpocketing at transport hubs and on interstate transport, including routes commonly used by tourists.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the pickpocketing in crowds and on public transport scam in Ecuador?
Thieves take money, phones or other belongings while passengers and people in crowds are distracted.
How can I spot it early?
A crowded bus or terminal makes it hard to watch your belongings. Your bag or pockets are within easy reach of other people.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowds and on public transport in Ecuador?
Keep your bag closed and in front of you. Keep money and phones out of easily reached pockets. Pay close attention to your belongings when boarding or leaving a bus.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Block any stolen cards.
Where in Ecuador does this happen?
Crowded areas, bus terminals and buses, especially Quito's Trolébus It has been reported in Quito.
How common is this scam in Ecuador?
Common. Theft is the main concern for visitors to Ecuador, especially in crowded places and on public transport. Tourists may also face higher shopping prices, taxi fare disputes and theft by people selling goods on buses. Unlicensed taxis and remote hiking routes carry more serious risks.
Are there similar scams in Ecuador?
Yes: theft of unattended belongings, theft by bus peddlers, robbery on remote hiking and climbing routes.
Who can I report it to?
Police or tourist police: report theft, robbery, kidnapping or threats once you are safe. Give the location, time and a clear account of what happened. Ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block stolen cards and report any unauthorised payments. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through your policy details. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence for a claim.
Reviewed by @snuck