Scam in PortugalTheft
Theft from rental cars in Portugal
How it works
Thieves steal belongings from rental cars. This is listed among the most common crimes against tourists in Lisbon.
Warning signs
- Bags or valuables can be seen through the car windows.
How to avoid it
- Take valuables and documents with you when leaving the car.
- Leave no bags or purchases visible inside.
- Check that the doors are locked before walking away.
If it happens to you
Report the theft to police and contact the rental company. Photograph any damage and keep the report for an insurance claim.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or confront a group.
- Call 112 if anyone is injured, you are being threatened or there is immediate danger.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, messages, transaction details and any photos. Write down what happened while you remember it.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance or bank follow-up.
- Contact your insurer, rental company or embassy as needed. Ask your embassy or consulate about replacing stolen travel documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/LegalAdviceEurope2024[Portugal] Rental Car - Theft of BelongingsA traveller reported that luggage and electronics were stolen from a rental car in an Óbidos parking lot during daylight, followed by difficulties claiming insurance.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/Progressiveinsurance2025Rental Car got broken into in Portugal (am American) -windows broken/bag stolen - anything covered?An American holidaymaker reported smashed rental-car windows and a stolen backpack containing hiking equipment and clothing in Porto.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the theft from rental cars scam in Portugal?
Thieves steal belongings from rental cars. This is listed among the most common crimes against tourists in Lisbon.
How can I spot it early?
Bags or valuables can be seen through the car windows.
How do I avoid theft from rental cars in Portugal?
Take valuables and documents with you when leaving the car. Leave no bags or purchases visible inside. Check that the doors are locked before walking away.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Report the theft to police and contact the rental company. Photograph any damage and keep the report for an insurance claim.
Where in Portugal does this happen?
Rental cars in Lisbon. It has been reported in Lisbon.
How common is this scam in Portugal?
Common. Portugal is relatively safe, but pickpocketing is the most common crime against visitors. Other risks include theft from rental cars, street scams in Lisbon, and poor value at some ATMs, exchange counters and music venues.
Are there similar scams in Portugal?
Yes: pickpocketing and bag theft, late-night mugging.
Who can I report it to?
PSP — Public Security Police: report theft, robbery or fraud in major urban areas. Approach an officer or visit a police station. GNR — National Republican Guards: report incidents outside major urban centres and in rural areas. Approach an officer or visit a police station. Emergency services: call 112 for urgent police, fire or medical help. Your bank or card issuer: use its official app or contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport or other travel documents are stolen. Your insurer or rental company: contact them through official channels after a covered loss or theft from a rental car. Keep the police report, receipts and photos.
What number do I call in an emergency in Portugal?
Police, fire and medical emergencies: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck