Scam in LithuaniaTheft
Theft in crowds or of unattended belongings in Lithuania
How it works
Money or valuables can be stolen when they are left unattended, displayed openly or poorly watched in a crowd. No specific distraction method is described.
Warning signs
- Your bag or phone is outside your view.
- A crowd makes it hard to keep track of your belongings.
- Cash or valuables are clearly visible.
How to avoid it
- Keep bags closed and close to your body.
- Keep your phone and wallet in a secure pocket.
- Check your seat and table before leaving.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and block any stolen cards. If your phone is missing, use its remote locking feature.
- Move to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or continue a confrontation.
- If there is immediate danger, injury or an urgent need for police, call 112.
- Block stolen cards through your card issuer. Lock a stolen phone remotely and secure affected accounts.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages, photos and vehicle or seller details. Write down the time and location.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference, and contact the operator or seller about any payment dispute.
- 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.
- Redditr/BalticStates2022Damn that difference between Baltics...A commenter vacationing in Palanga reported two attempted pickpocketings, including someone grabbing at their sister’s bag while she danced.Read on Reddit
- Government adviceSafety and security - Lithuania travel advice - GOV.UKUK travel advice warns about pickpockets in busy places and public transport and advises against leaving coats or handbags unattended in nightlife venues.Read on Government advice
- Government adviceLithuania travel adviceCanadian travel advice reports pickpocketing and bag snatching targeting tourists, especially on public transport and in crowded visitor areas.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the theft in crowds or of unattended belongings scam in Lithuania?
Money or valuables can be stolen when they are left unattended, displayed openly or poorly watched in a crowd. No specific distraction method is described.
How can I spot it early?
Your bag or phone is outside your view. A crowd makes it hard to keep track of your belongings. Cash or valuables are clearly visible.
How do I avoid theft in crowds or of unattended belongings in Lithuania?
Keep bags closed and close to your body. Keep your phone and wallet in a secure pocket. Check your seat and table before leaving. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and block any stolen cards. If your phone is missing, use its remote locking feature.
Where in Lithuania does this happen?
Crowds and public places across Lithuania. Extra caution is advised in central Vilnius and around its railway and bus stations at night.
How common is this scam in Lithuania?
Occasional. Lithuania is generally safe, and taxi rip-offs are uncommon. The main concerns are theft, higher street-taxi fares, approaches from street sellers or donation collectors, and counterfeit goods.
Are there similar scams in Lithuania?
Yes: theft of valuables left in cars.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 112 for an emergency. For a non-urgent theft or fraud report, contact police or visit a police station. Keep a copy or reference for the report. Taxi operator or booking service: use the contact details on the vehicle or the support option in your booking app. Provide the trip record, fare, receipt and vehicle registration. Card issuer: use your banking app or your issuer's official contact number to block a missing card and report unauthorised payments. Embassy or consulate: use your government's official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: contact the claims service shown in your policy. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Lithuania?
Police, ambulance, fire and other urgent rescue services: 112, Non-urgent medical information and first-aid advice: 113.
Reviewed by @snuck