These are the tourist scams Trzly has documented across Brasil, grouped by destination. Each one is real, with a clear way to stay safe. Read before you land.
Como funciona: Roving vendors sell drinks, snacks or trinkets on the sand without listed prices, then charge tourists far more than the normal rate.
Como evitar: Ask the price before accepting anything, carry small notes, and note that fixed kiosks usually display clearer prices than walking vendors.
Como funciona: People posing as plain-clothes police stop you to 'check' your wallet, passport or money for counterfeits, then remove cash or cards.
Como evitar: Real officers do not inspect your cash on the street. Do not hand over your wallet, offer to walk to a police station or busy area, and keep documents secured.
Como funciona: Machines in quiet spots are fitted with card skimmers or hidden cameras, or a 'helper' offers assistance to capture your card and PIN.
Como evitar: Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centres during the day, cover the keypad, decline any help, and check the card slot for anything loose.
Como funciona: A driver claims the meter is broken, runs a higher night tariff by day, or takes a long detour to inflate the fare.
Como evitar: Prefer a ride-hailing app with the price shown in advance. In a street taxi insist on the meter, watch the route on your phone, and pay with small notes.