Scam in AustraliaTheft
Theft of unattended belongings in Australia
How it works
Someone takes belongings that have been left unattended.
Warning signs
- Your belongings are beyond your reach or view.
- You are about to leave valuables unattended.
How to avoid it
- Keep valuables with you.
- Do not leave bags or phones unattended.
- Take extra care around bottle shops.
If it happens to you
Report the theft to police. Block missing cards and secure accounts on any stolen device.
- Move somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who may become violent.
- Stop further payments and contact. Call your card issuer to block missing or compromised cards and ask about disputed payments.
- Save evidence. Keep receipts, messages and transaction details. Write down the time, location and what happened.
- Report the crime to police promptly. For immediate danger, call 000. For non-emergency police assistance, call 131 444.
- Secure stolen devices and affected accounts. Contact your insurer, rental company or accommodation provider where relevant.
- If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate about replacing it. Keep the police report details for any claim.
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 of unattended belongings scam in Australia?
Someone takes belongings that have been left unattended.
How can I spot it early?
Your belongings are beyond your reach or view. You are about to leave valuables unattended.
How do I avoid theft of unattended belongings in Australia?
Keep valuables with you. Do not leave bags or phones unattended. Take extra care around bottle shops.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Report the theft to police. Block missing cards and secure accounts on any stolen device.
Where in Australia does this happen?
Darwin, with extra care advised around bottle shops and at night. It has been reported in Darwin.
How common is this scam in Australia?
Common. Tourist scams are not widespread in Australia, and few travellers become victims of crime. Watch for theft, rare ATM tampering and fake tax-debt demands for gift cards. Cairns has pickpockets and touts, while Darwin needs extra care with belongings, especially at night.
Are there similar scams in Australia?
Yes: pickpocketing, car break-ins, house burglaries and other break-ins.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, assault or other crime as soon as possible. Call 000 for an emergency or 131 444 for non-emergency police assistance. Bank controlling the ATM: contact it immediately if a withdrawal appears successful but no cash comes out. Give the ATM location, transaction time and amount. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact details to report missing cards or unfamiliar transactions. Ask about blocking the card and disputing charges. Gift-card provider: if you shared a gift-card code, contact the provider promptly. Keep the card and purchase receipt. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need help replacing travel documents. Travel insurer: follow its claim process. Keep police report details, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Australia?
Police, fire and ambulance: 000, Emergency services from a mobile phone: 112, Non-emergency police assistance: 131 444.
Reviewed by @snuck