Scam in UruguayTheft
Robbery in Uruguay
How it works
A person takes belongings through threats or force. Robbery is a concern in Montevideo, though no specific approach targeting tourists is described.
Warning signs
- Someone threatens you or demands your belongings.
- Someone blocks your way and pressures you to hand something over.
How to avoid it
- Avoid walking through unfamiliar or unsafe-looking areas at night.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Plan your journey home before going out.
If it happens to you
Do not resist or chase the person. Get to safety and call 911 or 999 if there is immediate danger.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- If there is immediate danger, call 911 or 999. If you need an ambulance, call 105.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any disputed payments. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, payment records, messages and any useful details. Report theft or fraud to police and ask for a report reference.
- Contact your travel insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate about a replacement.
Questions
What is the robbery scam in Uruguay?
A person takes belongings through threats or force. Robbery is a concern in Montevideo, though no specific approach targeting tourists is described.
How can I spot it early?
Someone threatens you or demands your belongings. Someone blocks your way and pressures you to hand something over.
How do I avoid robbery in Uruguay?
Avoid walking through unfamiliar or unsafe-looking areas at night. Keep valuables out of sight. Plan your journey home before going out.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not resist or chase the person. Get to safety and call 911 or 999 if there is immediate danger.
Where in Uruguay does this happen?
Montevideo, with extra caution needed in unfamiliar areas at night. It has been reported in Montevideo.
How common is this scam in Uruguay?
Common. Uruguay has theft and robbery risks, especially in Montevideo, while Punta del Este and most rural areas have lower crime levels. Visitors should also watch for an airport shuttle sales trick and poor exchange rates. High prices, taxi fare charts and confusing currency symbols do not by themselves mean a scam.
Are there similar scams in Uruguay?
Yes: theft of belongings, burglary.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 911 or 999 for a security emergency. For a theft or fraud report after the danger has passed, contact police and provide the time, place and available evidence. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorised payments. Business or transport operator: for a fare, exchange or service dispute, keep the receipt and ask the operator to explain the charge or correct an agreed service that was not provided. Accommodation staff: tell reception about a room theft, damaged lock or signs of entry. Ask for help contacting police. Travel insurer: use the contact details in your policy. Keep receipts and the police report reference for a claim. Embassy or consulate: if your passport is lost or stolen, use your country's official embassy or consulate contact details to request replacement travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in Uruguay?
Security emergency: 911, Security emergency, alternative number: 999, Firefighters: 104, Ambulance: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck