Scam in TunisiaTheft
Theft at airports in Tunisia
How it works
Belongings are stolen at airports when travellers lose direct control of them.
Warning signs
- Your bags are out of sight.
- Your belongings are left unattended.
How to avoid it
- Keep belongings under direct supervision.
- Keep your passport, money and cards close to you.
- Check that you have all your bags before moving on.
If it happens to you
Alert airport staff and police promptly. Freeze any stolen bank cards.
- Move to a safe, public place. Avoid a confrontation if someone becomes aggressive.
- Freeze missing or compromised cards immediately through your bank or card issuer.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, amount and any vehicle or business details.
- Keep receipts, bills, booking records and other evidence. Take photos only when safe.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Tell hotel management or airport staff when relevant, and ask for a written record.
- Contact your insurer about a claim. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
Questions
What is the theft at airports scam in Tunisia?
Belongings are stolen at airports when travellers lose direct control of them.
How can I spot it early?
Your bags are out of sight. Your belongings are left unattended.
How do I avoid theft at airports in Tunisia?
Keep belongings under direct supervision. Keep your passport, money and cards close to you. Check that you have all your bags before moving on.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Alert airport staff and police promptly. Freeze any stolen bank cards.
Where in Tunisia does this happen?
Airports
How common is this scam in Tunisia?
Occasional. Persistent sellers, unwanted guides and inflated bills are recurring problems for visitors to Tunisia. Theft is widely reported, including from hotel rooms, room safes and airports. Taxi overcharging and pressure to visit shops also need care.
Are there similar scams in Tunisia?
Yes: pickpocketing and theft of belongings, theft from hotel rooms and room safes.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or suspected fraud. Bring a clear account and any receipts or identifying details. Ask for a written report or reference. Bank or card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Hotel management: report missing room valuables promptly. Ask management to document the incident and help you contact police. Airport staff: ask for immediate help with airport theft or a driver refusing to return luggage. Request a supervisor for a disputed official cash count. Embassy or consulate: use your government's official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need help with replacement travel documents. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck