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Tourist scams in Guam

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.
  1. 1 TheftCommonTheft targeting rental cars and valuables in vehiclesThieves 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.Vehicles across Guam; rental cars can be identified by their stickers. 3Read
  2. 2 TaxisOccasionalUnclear taxi fares and unused metersTaxi meters are not always used consistently. Starting a ride without a working meter or an agreed fare can leave you facing an unexpected charge. Taxi fares are relatively high, so an expensive ride alone does not prove dishonesty.Across Guam, especially where taxis gather around the airport, major hotels and shopping centers. 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Won Pat Guam International Airport (GUM)Taxis gather at the airport. Confirm the fare or meter use before leaving; inconsistent meter use is a general taxi concern across Guam.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree the fare or request the meter before setting off.
  • Use your hotel concierge or a taxi company's dispatch service to arrange rides.
  • Plan your return journey in advance when visiting remote areas, especially in the south, where taxis may be limited or unavailable.
  • Keep a receipt and the vehicle details if there is a fare dispute.

Your belongings

  • Take valuables out of your vehicle whenever you park.
  • Keep bags and purchases out of sight.
  • Lock your car and close the windows.
  • Treat a rental car as an identifiable target because of its stickers.

Money

  • Guam uses U.S. dollars. Check the total price before paying.
  • Compare prices before a large purchase.
  • Allow for higher prices on goods shipped a long distance.
  • Keep receipts so you can check charges and raise any dispute.

What travellers say about Guam

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

How worried should I be about scams in Guam?

Focus on protecting belongings in vehicles and checking taxi fares. Property crime is relatively high, while violent crime is fairly low. There is not enough detail to estimate how often tourists encounter scams overall.

Do taxis always use a meter?

No. Meter use is not always consistent. Confirm the fare before starting or ask the driver to turn on the meter.

What should I check before taking an airport taxi?

Confirm the fare or agree that the meter will be used before the car leaves. If the price remains unclear, choose another taxi.

Can I rely on finding a taxi for my return trip?

Taxis can be difficult to hail outside tourist areas. Service may be limited or unavailable in remote areas, especially in the south. Arrange your return ride in advance.

Why are rental cars a theft concern?

Rental cars have stickers that can identify them to thieves. Take valuables with you, hide bags and lock the car whenever you leave it.

Does an expensive souvenir mean I am being scammed?

No. Goods may cost more because they have been shipped a long distance. Compare prices and check the total before paying.

What currency should I expect to pay in?

Guam uses the U.S. dollar, divided into 100 cents. Check prices and receipts in dollars.

What should I do if my wallet or cards are stolen?

Get somewhere safe, block your cards through your issuer and report the theft to police. Save the report reference and contact your insurer if you need to make a claim.

What evidence should I keep after a scam or theft?

Keep receipts, messages, vehicle details and photos of damage. Write down when and where it happened, and list anything missing.

What number should I call in an emergency?

Call 911 for an emergency or immediate danger.

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