Scam in GhanaTheft
Street phone snatching in Ghana
How it works
Thieves snatch mobile phones from people in the street. A phone used openly is exposed and easier to grab.
Warning signs
- Your phone is visible and within easy reach of passers-by.
How to avoid it
- Avoid using your phone out in the open.
- Step inside a suitable building before checking directions or messages.
- Put your phone away securely when you finish using it.
If it happens to you
Do not chase the thief if doing so could put you in danger. Once safe, lock the phone remotely if possible and contact your mobile provider.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or resist someone who threatens you. Call 112 if you need urgent police, fire or ambulance help.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, lock it remotely if possible and contact your mobile provider.
- Write down what happened while it is fresh. Save receipts, payment records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report theft, fraud, robbery or threats to the police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your card issuer, insurer or payment provider as needed. Ask what evidence they need and whether any loss can be recovered.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help after a serious incident.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Ghana2024Dirty December Foreigners be awareA Ghanaian living abroad reported having their phone snatched through a car window while visiting Accra for December festivities.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Ghana2024Rise In Theft CasesA commenter reported that two men passing on a motorcycle snatched their phone.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the street phone snatching scam in Ghana?
Thieves snatch mobile phones from people in the street. A phone used openly is exposed and easier to grab.
How can I spot it early?
Your phone is visible and within easy reach of passers-by.
How do I avoid street phone snatching in Ghana?
Avoid using your phone out in the open. Step inside a suitable building before checking directions or messages. Put your phone away securely when you finish using it.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not chase the thief if doing so could put you in danger. Once safe, lock the phone remotely if possible and contact your mobile provider.
Where in Ghana does this happen?
Streets across Ghana.
How common is this scam in Ghana?
Occasional. Ghana is generally safe, with relatively low crime levels, but visitors should watch for inflated taxi quotes and card fraud. Phone snatching, pickpocketing and muggings are also reported. Persistent beach sellers can be a nuisance, while people suspected to be gay or queer can face targeted extortion.
Are there similar scams in Ghana?
Yes: pickpocketing at Kejetia Market, muggings outside Bywel's bar.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 112 for urgent help. For a non-urgent theft or fraud report, approach a police station and ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze the card and report payments you did not authorise. Mobile provider: contact the provider through an official channel to block a stolen SIM and ask about protecting linked services. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and keep police reports, receipts and records of the loss. Embassy or consulate: use official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident. If facing sensitive threats or extortion, ask about confidential assistance.
What number do I call in an emergency in Ghana?
Police, fire and ambulance: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck