Scam in IrelandTheft
Robbery with threats or violence in Ireland
How it works
A thief confronts you and demands valuables. They may use violence or carry a weapon. This is described as unlikely, but resisting can make the situation more dangerous.
Warning signs
- Someone threatens you or demands your belongings.
How to avoid it
- Avoid walking alone in deserted areas after sunset.
- Plan your journey home before going out.
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Keep your distance from visibly drunk or aggressive people.
If it happens to you
Hand over the valuables demanded and do not resist. Move to safety and report the crime immediately. Call 999 or 112 if you are in danger or need urgent help.
- Get to a safe, busy place. If someone threatens you, do not resist or chase them.
- Call 999 or 112 if there is immediate danger, an injury or another emergency.
- Contact your card issuer promptly if a card was stolen or used without permission. Freeze affected cards and ask about disputing payments.
- Save receipts, messages, booking details and payment records. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Report the crime to the Gardaí as soon as possible. Ask for a report reference for your insurer or card issuer.
- Contact your travel insurer about a claim. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate about a replacement.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- News2019Tourists robbed at gunpoint near Guinness StorehouseTwo tourists near Dublin’s Guinness Storehouse were threatened with a gun or imitation gun, and one surrendered money during the robbery.Read on News
- News2026Man jailed for seven years for assaulting US touristRTÉ reports that a man was jailed for robbing and assaulting an American tourist who was left injured on a Dublin road in April 2023.Read on News
Questions
What is the robbery with threats or violence scam in Ireland?
A thief confronts you and demands valuables. They may use violence or carry a weapon. This is described as unlikely, but resisting can make the situation more dangerous.
How can I spot it early?
Someone threatens you or demands your belongings.
How do I avoid robbery with threats or violence in Ireland?
Avoid walking alone in deserted areas after sunset. Plan your journey home before going out. Keep valuables out of sight. Keep your distance from visibly drunk or aggressive people.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Hand over the valuables demanded and do not resist. Move to safety and report the crime immediately. Call 999 or 112 if you are in danger or need urgent help.
Where in Ireland does this happen?
Country-wide. Take particular care on deserted streets after sunset in Dublin and Cork.
How common is this scam in Ireland?
Occasional. Crime in Ireland is relatively low by European standards. Travellers should avoid unofficial taxis and take care with valuables, especially on quiet streets after dark. Robbery can involve threats or violence, so do not resist.
Who can I report it to?
An Garda Síochána (Gardaí): report crime promptly to an officer or at a police station. Give the location, time, description and any evidence. Call 999 or 112 for an emergency. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number. Report stolen cards or unauthorised payments, freeze affected cards and ask about a payment dispute. Taxi operator or booking app: use the contact details on your booking or receipt to query the fare. Keep the journey record, vehicle details and proof of payment. Travel insurer: contact the claims service listed in your policy. Keep the police report reference, receipts and evidence of the loss. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport was stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Ireland?
Gardaí, ambulance, fire service, coast guard or mountain rescue: 999, Gardaí, ambulance, fire service, coast guard or mountain rescue: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck