Scam in GuamTheft
Theft targeting rental cars and valuables in vehicles in Guam
How it works
Thieves may target rental cars because their stickers identify them. Valuables left in vehicles are at risk. Property crime is relatively high, although no specific theft technique is described.
Warning signs
- Bags, electronics or other valuables are visible inside your parked car.
- Rental stickers make your vehicle easy to identify.
How to avoid it
- Take valuables with you whenever you leave the car.
- Keep bags and purchases out of sight.
- Lock the doors and close all windows before walking away.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and tell the rental company about any damage. Photograph the damage and list missing items for your insurer.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing a thief or confronting someone who makes you feel threatened.
- If there is an emergency or immediate danger, call 911.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, messages, vehicle details and photos of any damage.
- If cards or payment details were stolen, contact your card issuer immediately to block them and discuss disputed charges.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference, and notify the rental company if a vehicle was involved.
- Contact your insurer about a claim. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement guidance.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government advice2026Guam Travel Advice & Safety | SmartravellerAustralian government advice warns that easily identifiable rental cars are often targeted by thieves and advises against leaving valuables in parked vehicles.Read on Government advice
- News2012Rash of car breakins at Marbo and PagatKUAM reports that four parked cars were broken into near Pagat and Marbo Cave, with thieves taking credit cards, tools and $500 cash.Read on News
- News2022Tourists robbed in TumonTwo South Korean tourists had a beach bag containing passports and rental-car keys stolen, after which their rental car was moved and their belongings taken.Read on News
Questions
What is the theft targeting rental cars and valuables in vehicles scam in Guam?
Thieves may target rental cars because their stickers identify them. Valuables left in vehicles are at risk. Property crime is relatively high, although no specific theft technique is described.
How can I spot it early?
Bags, electronics or other valuables are visible inside your parked car. Rental stickers make your vehicle easy to identify.
How do I avoid theft targeting rental cars and valuables in vehicles in Guam?
Take valuables with you whenever you leave the car. Keep bags and purchases out of sight. Lock the doors and close all windows before walking away.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. Report the theft to police and tell the rental company about any damage. Photograph the damage and list missing items for your insurer.
Where in Guam does this happen?
Vehicles across Guam; rental cars can be identified by their stickers.
How common is this scam in Guam?
Common. The main risks described for Guam are theft from vehicles and unclear taxi fares. Property crime is relatively high, and rental cars can be targeted because their stickers make them easy to identify. High shop prices can reflect shipping costs, so a high price alone does not mean a scam.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 911 for an emergency or immediate danger. Police: report theft or suspected fraud and ask for a report reference. For a non-emergency, ask your accommodation to help you find the appropriate police contact. Taxi company or hotel concierge: for a fare dispute, provide the receipt, journey details and vehicle information to the company or the hotel that arranged the ride. Rental car company: use the contact details in your rental agreement to report a theft involving the vehicle or any damage. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block stolen cards and report unauthorized charges. Travel insurer: use the claims contact in your policy. Keep the police reference, receipts and evidence of your losses. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help if your passport is stolen.
What number do I call in an emergency in Guam?
Emergency services: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck