Scam in GuatemalaTheft
Shopping bags cut open in Guatemala
How it works
Thieves use razor blades to cut shopping bags and remove the contents.
Warning signs
- Your shopping bags hang behind you or outside your view.
- Crowded market corridors make it hard to notice contact with your bag.
How to avoid it
- Carry bags in front of you.
- Keep money, cards and your phone out of shopping bags.
- Check your bags after moving through a crowded section.
If it happens to you
Do not confront someone carrying a blade. Move to safety and report the theft.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone threatens you with a weapon, do not resist.
- Check whether anyone is injured. Seek medical help if needed.
- Freeze stolen cards and contact your card issuer about disputed withdrawals. Lock a stolen phone remotely and contact your mobile provider.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, vehicle details and amounts. Save receipts and screenshots without confronting the person involved.
- Report the incident to police. In Antigua, ask the Tourist Police for help. Request a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing or you need serious assistance, contact your embassy or consulate.
Questions
What is the shopping bags cut open scam in Guatemala?
Thieves use razor blades to cut shopping bags and remove the contents.
How can I spot it early?
Your shopping bags hang behind you or outside your view. Crowded market corridors make it hard to notice contact with your bag.
How do I avoid shopping bags cut open in Guatemala?
Carry bags in front of you. Keep money, cards and your phone out of shopping bags. Check your bags after moving through a crowded section.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not confront someone carrying a blade. Move to safety and report the theft.
Where in Guatemala does this happen?
El Mercado in Antigua It has been reported in Antigua Guatemala.
How common is this scam in Guatemala?
Occasional. The main risks in Guatemala are theft, armed robbery, unsafe taxi rides and inflated fares. Phone theft is especially common, while some cash machines in Flores have reported fee and withdrawal problems. Risk varies by place: Antigua's centre is safer in daylight, and Flores island is described as very safe.
Are there similar scams in Guatemala?
Yes: phone theft, armed robbery, road robbery and carjacking.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report robbery, theft, kidnapping or fraud once you are safe. Ask your accommodation to help you reach police and request a written report or reference number. Tourist Police in Antigua: ask for help with an incident in Antigua. Your accommodation can help you find them. Card issuer or bank: use the contact details in your banking app or on your card. Freeze stolen cards and report ATM debits without cash or other disputed transactions. Taxi Amarillo / Amarillo Express: for a complaint about a booked ride, contact 1766 or servicioalcliente@amarilloexpress.com. Keep your booking and trip details. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen, someone is being held or you need serious assistance. Travel insurer: use your policy's assistance or claims contact. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses.
Reviewed by @snuck