Scam in ArgentinaAirport and border
Theft from checked luggage in Argentina
How it works
Airport security workers were reported stealing electronics, sunglasses and jewelry from checked bags in 2007. The guide says there have been no further reports since then.
Warning signs
- Valuables are packed in checked luggage.
How to avoid it
- Keep electronics, jewelry and other valuables in your carry-on.
- Check your luggage and contents after collection.
If it happens to you
Report missing items to the airline and airport staff promptly. Keep baggage tags and request a written record.
- Get somewhere safe. If threatened, hand over valuables and avoid resistance.
- Check for injuries. Call police for immediate danger or an ambulance if medical help is needed.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your bank. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save evidence, including receipts, messages, vehicle details and the time and place. Do not confront or chase anyone.
- Report the incident to police or Tourist Police. Request a written report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
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 from checked luggage scam in Argentina?
Airport security workers were reported stealing electronics, sunglasses and jewelry from checked bags in 2007. The guide says there have been no further reports since then.
How can I spot it early?
Valuables are packed in checked luggage.
How do I avoid theft from checked luggage in Argentina?
Keep electronics, jewelry and other valuables in your carry-on. Check your luggage and contents after collection.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Report missing items to the airline and airport staff promptly. Keep baggage tags and request a written record.
Where in Argentina does this happen?
Airports; no specific airport is named for this theft.
How common is this scam in Argentina?
Occasional. Most visitors travel in Argentina without an incident, but petty theft and tourist scams are worth preparing for. Watch for pickpockets, distraction theft, taxi fare tricks and street money exchanges, especially in Buenos Aires and around busy transport terminals.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 911 for an emergency. In some smaller cities, the police number may be 101. Report theft or robbery and request a written record. Tourist Police in Buenos Aires: visit Corrientes 436. Call 0800 999 5000 within Argentina or +54 11 4346 5748. Email turista@policiafederal.gov.ar. Assistance is available in English, Italian, French, Portuguese and Ukrainian. Tourist Ombudsman in Buenos Aires: call +54 11 4302 7816 or visit Ave. Pedro de Mendoza 1835, at the Benito Quinquela Martin Museum in La Boca. Listed hours are daily, 10:00–18:00. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze cards, report unauthorised transactions and ask about a dispute. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need help replacing travel documents. Airline and airport staff: report theft from checked luggage promptly. Keep your baggage tags and ask for a written incident record. Travel insurer: follow your policy's claim process. Keep the police report, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Argentina?
Police and general emergencies: 911, Police in some smaller cities: 101, Ambulance; SAME in Buenos Aires: 107, Fire service: 100, Tourist Police: +54 11 4346 5748, Tourist Police, within Argentina: 0800 999 5000.
Reviewed by @snuck