Scam in EcuadorTheft
Theft by bus peddlers in Ecuador
How it works
Some people who board buses to sell goods also steal from passengers. Their sales activity can draw attention away from belongings.
Warning signs
- A seller boards and moves through the bus.
- Watching a sales pitch takes your attention away from your bag.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag closed and within reach.
- Watch your belongings while sellers are on board.
- Avoid taking out a large amount of cash to make a purchase.
If it happens to you
Check your belongings as soon as you notice a problem. Report missing items once you are somewhere safe.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or risk injury over belongings.
- Check for injuries and seek medical care if needed.
- Block stolen cards through your card issuer. Secure accounts and remotely lock a stolen phone if possible.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, payment records and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report the incident to police or tourist police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the theft by bus peddlers scam in Ecuador?
Some people who board buses to sell goods also steal from passengers. Their sales activity can draw attention away from belongings.
How can I spot it early?
A seller boards and moves through the bus. Watching a sales pitch takes your attention away from your bag.
How do I avoid theft by bus peddlers in Ecuador?
Keep your bag closed and within reach. Watch your belongings while sellers are on board. Avoid taking out a large amount of cash to make a purchase.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check your belongings as soon as you notice a problem. Report missing items once you are somewhere safe.
Where in Ecuador does this happen?
Buses where sellers board briefly to offer goods
How common is this scam in Ecuador?
Common. Theft is the main concern for visitors to Ecuador, especially in crowded places and on public transport. Tourists may also face higher shopping prices, taxi fare disputes and theft by people selling goods on buses. Unlicensed taxis and remote hiking routes carry more serious risks.
Are there similar scams in Ecuador?
Yes: pickpocketing in crowds and on public transport, theft of unattended belongings, robbery on remote hiking and climbing routes.
Who can I report it to?
Police or tourist police: report theft, robbery, kidnapping or threats once you are safe. Give the location, time and a clear account of what happened. Ask for a report or reference number. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block stolen cards and report any unauthorised payments. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through your policy details. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence for a claim.
Reviewed by @snuck