Other Tourist Scams in Quito, Ecuador
Timeshares, fake police, charity fraud, and miscellaneous scams targeting visitors. Below are the other scams scams reported in Quito — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Buenos Aires, Lima, and Cusco.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
1
Other Scams Scams
10
Total in Quito
How it works
Individuals posing as plain-clothes police officers approach tourists near major churches and plazas in Quito's historic center, claiming to be conducting an anti-drug or anti-counterfeiting operation. They flash unofficial-looking badge replicas and demand to inspect the tourist's wallet and passport for "counterfeit bills" or "suspicious currency." An accomplice may be present to distract while the fake officer palms cash or cards during the inspection. Real Ecuadorian police in plain clothes do not conduct random wallet checks on tourists.
See all scams in Quito
10 total warnings across all categories