Rio de Janeiro
A huge seaside city in Brazil, famous for its Copacabana and Ipanema beaches.
Police
190
Ambulance
192
Tourist Police
(21) 2332-2924
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The "Goodnight Cinderella" Drugging Scam
Scammers, often attractive individuals met on dating apps or in bars/clubs, drug the victim (usually with a sedative in a drink) to render them unconscious. They then take the victim back to their accommodation to steal all valuables, including emptying bank accounts via digital means.
Never accept drinks from strangers. Meet in public places only. Inform a friend of your plans and location. Do not bring new acquaintances back to your accommodation.
The Fake Taxi/Overcharge Scam
Unofficial or rogue taxi drivers, particularly at airports or bus stations, refuse to use the meter and demand an exorbitant, fixed "tourist price." They may also take unnecessarily long routes to inflate the fare.
Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, 99) or pre-booked airport transfers. If using a taxi, ensure the driver uses the meter (taxímetro) and have small bills for payment.
The Distraction/Mustard Scam
A scammer sprays a liquid (mustard, ketchup, or a similar substance) on the victim's clothing. An accomplice then rushes over, pretending to help clean the mess, while simultaneously pickpocketing the distracted victim.
Immediately move away from the person offering help. Do not stop to clean the mess on the street. Secure your belongings and check them before dealing with the stain.
The Fake Police Officer Scam
A person dressed as a police officer (often in plain clothes) approaches tourists, claiming to be checking for counterfeit money or drugs. They demand to see the tourist's wallet or passport, using the distraction to steal cash or credit cards.
Politely refuse to show your wallet. Ask to see their official ID and insist on going to the nearest police station (DEAT - Tourist Police) to resolve the issue. Real police rarely conduct random street checks on tourists.
The Beach Cleaner/Distraction Theft
A thief, sometimes disguised as a street vendor or cleaner, uses a distraction (like sweeping sand near your towel or asking a question) to quickly snatch unattended bags, phones, or cameras while the victim is swimming or momentarily distracted.
Never leave valuables unattended on the beach. Only bring essential items. Ask a trusted neighbor or a beach kiosk vendor to watch your things if you go swimming.
The ATM Skimming/Card Cloning Scam
Criminals install skimming devices (to read card data) and hidden cameras (to record PINs) on ATMs, particularly those in less secure or isolated locations. They then clone the card and withdraw funds.
Only use ATMs inside banks or major shopping centers during business hours. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN. Check the card slot for loose or suspicious attachments.
The Counterfeit Money/Change Scam
Scammers, often street vendors or small shop owners, give tourists change using counterfeit Brazilian Reais (BRL). This is common when tourists pay with large bills or exchange money on the street.
Familiarize yourself with the security features of BRL notes. Always try to pay with exact change or smaller denominations. Avoid exchanging money with unauthorized street vendors.
The Express Kidnapping (Sequestro Relâmpago)
Victims are forced into a vehicle (often a taxi or ride-share) and driven to various ATMs to withdraw the maximum daily limit from their accounts. The ordeal typically lasts a few hours before the victim is released.
Be extremely cautious when hailing taxis on the street; use ride-sharing apps or official taxi stands. Limit the amount of money in your primary bank account and use a secondary card with a low limit for travel.
The Fake Ticket/Tour Guide Scam
Scammers sell counterfeit or invalid tickets for popular attractions (like Christ the Redeemer or Sugarloaf) or offer 'official' tours at inflated prices. The tickets are rejected at the entrance, and the scammer is gone.
Only purchase tickets directly from the official attraction website, ticket office, or a reputable hotel/tour agency. Be wary of unsolicited offers on the street.
The Cell Phone Snatch (Arrastão)
Thieves on foot, bicycles, or motorbikes quickly snatch cell phones from people who are using them on the street or at a cafe table. This is a crime of opportunity, often happening in crowded areas.
Do not use your phone while walking on the street, especially near the curb. Keep your phone secured in a front pocket or bag. Never leave it on a table at a restaurant or bar.
The Credit Card Machine Switch
A vendor (often a street seller or a small shop) uses a compromised or modified credit card machine. They either skim the card during the transaction or claim the transaction failed and use a second machine to charge the card twice.
Always keep your card in sight. Check the amount on the machine before entering your PIN. Use a travel credit card with fraud protection and monitor your transactions closely.
Safe Attractions
Christ the Redeemer
An Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro.
Sugarloaf Mountain
A peak situated in Rio de Janeiro at the mouth of Guanabara Bay.