Question 1

What is the "Express Kidnapping from Puno ATM" scam in Puno?

Accepted Answer

Criminals monitor ATM users on Jirón Lima and around the Parque Pino area, following tourists who withdraw large amounts of cash and forcing them into a vehicle where they are held while additional withdrawals are made from their cards. This is a known pattern in Peruvian highland cities. Incidents are more common in the evening and have been reported to Puno tourist police. A variation involves a distraction team stealing the card first. Withdraw cash during daylight hours at bank-premises ATMs inside BCP or Interbank branches on Jirón Lima. Withdraw only what you need for the day. Be aware of anyone watching you at the machine.

Question 2

What is the "Bus Terminal Bag Theft at 3 AM" scam in Puno?

Accepted Answer

Overnight buses from Cusco arrive at Puno terminal around 4-5 AM. Groomed teams work the unloading area, either distracting arrivals while bags are lifted from the cargo hold, or swapping claim tags. Stay next to your bag until it is in your hand. Use taxis from the official terminal rank, not drivers who approach inside the terminal. Carry small cash in a separate pocket for early-morning emergencies.

Street Scams in Puno

Express Kidnapping from Puno ATM

Bus Terminal Bag Theft at 3 AM

Experienced a scam here?