Scam in ParaguayTheft
Pickpocketing in Paraguay
How it works
A thief takes money or belongings from your pockets or bag without you noticing. No particular distraction method is specified.
Warning signs
- Your wallet or phone is visible and easy to reach.
- Your bag is open or outside your view.
How to avoid it
- Keep bags closed and within sight.
- Keep your wallet and phone in secure pockets.
- Carry only the cash you need for the day.
- Pay extra attention to your bags and wallet in Ciudad del Este.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Freeze any missing cards, secure affected accounts and report the theft to police. Contact your embassy if your passport was taken.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing a thief or escalating an argument.
- Check what is missing. Freeze stolen cards and tell your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Secure affected accounts. If your phone was stolen, use available remote-lock tools and contact your mobile provider.
- Save evidence, including receipts, messages, transaction records, locations and descriptions.
- Report theft or fraud to police. Ask for a written report or reference number for insurance and payment disputes.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you need consular help. Notify your insurer and keep copies of all reports.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing scam in Paraguay?
A thief takes money or belongings from your pockets or bag without you noticing. No particular distraction method is specified.
How can I spot it early?
Your wallet or phone is visible and easy to reach. Your bag is open or outside your view.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in Paraguay?
Keep bags closed and within sight. Keep your wallet and phone in secure pockets. Carry only the cash you need for the day. Pay extra attention to your bags and wallet in Ciudad del Este.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. Freeze any missing cards, secure affected accounts and report the theft to police. Contact your embassy if your passport was taken.
Where in Paraguay does this happen?
Cities, with particular caution advised in Ciudad del Este. It has been reported in Ciudad del Este.
How common is this scam in Paraguay?
Occasional. Paraguay is generally safe, but visitors should watch for pickpockets, taxi overcharging and poor deals from street money changers. Police may also ask for bribes during stops, although most police in Asunción are described as not corrupt. Stay alert to your belongings in cities, especially Ciudad del Este.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft or fraud at a police station. Bring any evidence and ask for a written report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised transactions and ask about a payment dispute. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a threatening encounter involving officials. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact on your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and proof of loss. Seller or service provider: request a refund through a verified contact channel. Keep the receipt and a written record of the complaint.
Reviewed by @snuck