Question 1

What is the "Fake police 'document check'" scam in Cuenca?

Accepted Answer

Someone in plain or partial uniform claims to be police and demands to inspect your passport, visa, or wallet 'for a check,' then palms cash or cards during the handling. Cuenca safety guidance notes this targets new arrivals and tourists rather than locals, who know real officers behave differently. Real officers identify themselves and explain why they stopped you. Ask for a badge/ID and the reason, keep your wallet in your hand, and offer to walk to the nearest police station to resolve anything. Don't hand over your wallet or let anyone 'check' your cash.

Question 2

What is the "Mustard / spill distraction theft (paquetazo)" scam in Cuenca?

Accepted Answer

A team works together: one person points out a 'stain' or squirts mustard, ketchup, or another liquid on your clothes and helps you wipe it off, while an accomplice lifts your wallet, phone, or bag. Cuenca police call this the paquetazo and note it is often initiated by a woman. It is one of the most frequent street setups in the historic center and markets. If a stranger suddenly points at your clothing or 'helps' clean a mess, step back, secure your bag and pockets, and decline help. Keep your phone in a front pocket and use a zipped cross-body bag worn in front in crowds.

Question 3

What is the "Sympathy / fellow-foreigner hard-luck appeal" scam in Cuenca?

Accepted Answer

A well-dressed stranger, often another foreigner who speaks your language, approaches with a rehearsed story about being robbed, injured, or needing emergency money for a sick relative, and asks for cash or to be walked to an ATM. Cuenca police stress the stories are convincing but are lies, and the ask escalates from pocket money to an ATM withdrawal. Treat unsolicited money requests from strangers as scams, however polished or relatable. Never go to an ATM with someone you just met. Offer to direct them to the police or their consulate instead of handing over cash.

Question 4

What is the "'Hold my baby' grab at Parque Calderon" scam in Cuenca?

Accepted Answer

A woman thrusts an infant or bundle into a victim's arms claiming a sudden emergency; while the startled tourist instinctively takes the baby and has both hands full, accomplices snatch their bag, phone, or wallet. Cuenca police documented two recent cases, both occurring at Parque Calderon, the main square beside the New Cathedral. Keep your hands free and your bag secured; do not accept anything pushed into your arms by a stranger. Step away and keep moving. If someone genuinely needs help, direct them to nearby police rather than holding their belongings or child.

Street Scams in Cuenca

Fake police 'document check'

Mustard / spill distraction theft (paquetazo)

Sympathy / fellow-foreigner hard-luck appeal

'Hold my baby' grab at Parque Calderon

Experienced a scam here?