Scam in UgandaTheft
Pickpockets following ATM users in Uganda
How it works
Pickpockets follow tourists from one bank's ATM to another when their cards are not accepted. They may then steal money or belongings.
Warning signs
- The same person appears at more than one ATM you visit.
- Someone follows closely after you leave a bank.
- A stranger moves unusually close while you handle your wallet.
How to avoid it
- Check your surroundings before leaving each ATM.
- Put your cash, card and wallet away before walking off.
- If you think someone is following you, enter a staffed bank or another busy, staffed place.
- Avoid repeatedly moving between nearby ATMs while distracted.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. If a card is missing, freeze it immediately. Record the ATM location and report the theft to police.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront anyone who threatens you.
- Seek urgent medical help if you are injured or suspect drink spiking. Ask a trusted person to stay with you.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about suspicious payments. Lock stolen devices remotely and secure important accounts.
- Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down the time, location and what happened.
- Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for insurance.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
Questions
What is the pickpockets following ATM users scam in Uganda?
Pickpockets follow tourists from one bank's ATM to another when their cards are not accepted. They may then steal money or belongings.
How can I spot it early?
The same person appears at more than one ATM you visit. Someone follows closely after you leave a bank. A stranger moves unusually close while you handle your wallet.
How do I avoid pickpockets following ATM users in Uganda?
Check your surroundings before leaving each ATM. Put your cash, card and wallet away before walking off. If you think someone is following you, enter a staffed bank or another busy, staffed place. Avoid repeatedly moving between nearby ATMs while distracted.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. If a card is missing, freeze it immediately. Record the ATM location and report the theft to police.
Where in Uganda does this happen?
Around bank ATMs, especially when visitors move between machines after a card fails It has been reported in Kampala.
How common is this scam in Uganda?
Occasional. Travellers should watch for tourist fare overcharging, poor exchange rates and theft, especially in Kampala. Drink spiking is also reported at nightlife venues. These risks deserve care, but there is no clear measure of how often visitors encounter them.
Are there similar scams in Uganda?
Yes: theft through car windows or unlocked doors.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, fraud or threats at a local police station. For an emergency, call 112 or 999. Responses to emergency calls may be unreliable, so seek help from a nearby staffed place too. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze a missing card, report unauthorised payments and ask about disputes. Business or activity provider: for a disputed fare, exchange rate or bill, show the agreed price and request a correction or refund. Keep the response and receipts. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Ask which receipts, police records or medical documents it needs. 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 Uganda?
Police and fire: 112, Police and fire: 999, Ambulance: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck