Question 1

What is the "Lightning Robbery (Arrastão)" scam in São Paulo?

Accepted Answer

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. Avoid displaying phones, cameras, or jewellery in public in São Paulo. Use a cheap, basic phone for navigation and keep valuables concealed.

Question 2

What is the "Friendly Stranger Bar Spiking in Itaim Bibi" scam in São Paulo?

Accepted Answer

In upscale nightlife areas around Itaim Bibi and Vila Olimpia, friendly individuals approach tourists at bars, offer drinks, and spike them with scopolamine or similar substances. Victims become compliant, accompany the scammer to an ATM, and withdraw large sums before losing consciousness. This crime is well-documented by Policia Civil SP and disproportionately affects solo foreign men. Never accept drinks from strangers in bars, never leave your drink unattended, and never go to a secondary location with someone you met that evening. If you feel unusually intoxicated quickly, seek help from bar staff immediately.

Question 3

What is the "Pickpockets in the Feira da Liberdade" scam in São Paulo?

Accepted Answer

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. Use a front-facing zipped bag. Keep phones in a front pocket and carry minimal cash in the market.

Question 4

What is the "Fake Charity Collector" scam in São Paulo?

Accepted Answer

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. Donate to verified charities only. Politely decline all cash donation requests from strangers on the street.

Street Scams in São Paulo

Lightning Robbery (Arrastão)

Friendly Stranger Bar Spiking in Itaim Bibi

Pickpockets in the Feira da Liberdade

Fake Charity Collector

Experienced a scam here?