Street Scams in São Paulo, Brazil
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in São Paulo — 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
3
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in São Paulo
How it works
Organised groups snatch phones, bags, and jewellery from tourists in tourist areas and bus corridors. The crime is swift, involves multiple perpetrators, and can turn violent if victims resist.
How it works
The busy Japanese-Brazilian market at Praça da Liberdade on Sundays attracts pickpockets who prey on distracted tourists browsing food and craft stalls in dense crowds.
How it works
Individuals in tourist areas claim to represent charities for street children, collecting cash donations. The charity organisations often do not exist and money goes directly to the collector.
See all scams in São Paulo
10 total warnings across all categories