Scam in BarbadosTheft
Robbery in Barbados
How it works
Robbery is among the most common crimes against tourists. The account does not describe a particular method. Solo tourists, especially women, are identified as most at risk.
Warning signs
- A beach is secluded, with few people nearby.
- You are away from main roads in an unfamiliar residential area.
How to avoid it
- Avoid secluded beaches when alone.
- Keep to main roads in unfamiliar residential areas.
- Carry only the cash and valuables you need.
- Keep your phone and valuables out of sight when possible.
If it happens to you
Do not resist or chase the person. Get somewhere safe, contact police and block any stolen cards.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not resist a robber or chase anyone.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount and any useful description.
- Keep receipts, booking records, messages and photos of advertised prices.
- Contact your card issuer promptly if a card was stolen or used without permission. Ask it to block the card and review the transactions.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or written record.
- Contact your travel insurer if you may claim. 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.
- Government adviceTravel advice and advisories for BarbadosCanada's travel advice reports armed robberies in Barbados and recommends avoiding isolated areas and walking alone after dark.Read on Government advice
- Redditr/Barbados2025Returning Bajan Asking About Crime RealityIn a 2026 reply, a returning visitor reported that his 73-year-old wife was stabbed and robbed on Brighton Beach Road during the afternoon.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the robbery scam in Barbados?
Robbery is among the most common crimes against tourists. The account does not describe a particular method. Solo tourists, especially women, are identified as most at risk.
How can I spot it early?
A beach is secluded, with few people nearby. You are away from main roads in an unfamiliar residential area.
How do I avoid robbery in Barbados?
Avoid secluded beaches when alone. Keep to main roads in unfamiliar residential areas. Carry only the cash and valuables you need. Keep your phone and valuables out of sight when possible.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not resist or chase the person. Get somewhere safe, contact police and block any stolen cards.
Where in Barbados does this happen?
Country-wide; extra caution is advised on secluded beaches and in non-tourist residential districts away from main roads.
How common is this scam in Barbados?
Common. Barbados is described as safer than many other Caribbean islands, but crime is increasing. Taxi fraud, robbery and short-changing are among the most common crimes against tourists. Other money traps include poor hotel exchange rates, inflated vendor prices and misleading duty-free bargains.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report robbery, threats and suspected fraud. Provide the location, time, descriptions and any evidence. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or a trusted contact number to report stolen cards or unauthorised payments. Ask about blocking the card and disputing charges. Shop or hotel manager: for a disputed price, exchange rate or incorrect change, show your receipt and explain the amount you agreed to. 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: use the contact details in your policy. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck