Arrastão — mass beach robbery
Occasional — happens but not frequent
Physical safety riskCost USD 100-2000+
Trigger
Group of youths runs across beach grabbing bags + phones simultaneously.
How it works
Coordinated group of 10-30 attackers overwhelms victims. Copacabana + Ipanema most-affected.
Where it clusters
Copacabana beachIpanema beachEspecially New Year's Eve + Carnival
How to avoid
- ✓No valuables to beach.
- ✓Waterproof pouch for essentials.
- ✓Sit near lifeguard station.
If it happens to you
- →Comply — no resistance. Report to Delegacia Especial de Atendimento ao Turista (DEAT): +55 21 2334 6802.
Boa Boca / Copacabana drink-spike
Common — likely to encounter
Physical safety riskCost USD 500-3000
Trigger
Friendly stranger buys you a drink at Copacabana beach bar.
How it works
Drink spiked (rohypnol variant) → victim wakes with cards, phone, cash gone.
How to avoid
- ✓Never leave drink unattended.
- ✓Refuse drinks from strangers.
- ✓Stay in group.
If it happens to you
- →Immediately to hospital + DEAT report.
Fake taxi from Rio Airport (Galeão GIG)
Common — likely to encounter
Moderate financial riskCost USD 30-100
Trigger
Airport taxi with fast meter or flat quote.
How it works
Real: use Radio Táxi kiosk in arrivals (fixed prices).
How to avoid
- ✓Uber or 99 apps.
- ✓Radio Táxi Special kiosk inside airport.
If it happens to you
- →Report license plate.
Rio de Janeiro emergency contacts
General emergency
Ambulance
US Consulate
Community
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