Tourists have also reported break-ins and armed robberies at Airbnbs and other rental properties, according to the embassy. 

By Joe Lombardi From Daily Voice

A popular Central American getaway spot is under new scrutiny after US officials warned that criminals are increasingly targeting tourists and foreign residents with robberies and extortion schemes.

In a security alert issued on Tuesday, Nov. 25, the US Embassy in San Jose, Costa Rica, said it is tracking a rise in property crimes, financial crimes, and robberies affecting foreigners across the country, including US citizens. 

The alert describes criminal gangs targeting foreign-owned homes and businesses for break-ins and extortion. It also details cases in which foreign residents and travelers were forced to withdraw large sums of cash from ATMs or make bank transfers.

Tourists have also reported break-ins and armed robberies at Airbnbs and other rental properties, according to the embassy. 

Officials are urging visitors and US citizens living in Costa Rica to report incidents to the country’s investigative police, known as the Organismo de Investigación Judicial, and to verify the identity of any local authorities who approach them.

For property owners, the alert recommends upgrading physical security, including cameras and motion sensor lights, securing valuables, reducing cash on hand, and limiting what they share online about their homes, assets, or locations.

It also encourages clear security protocols for family, visitors, and employees, along with neighborhood watches and regular contact with local law enforcement.

Visitors are advised not to resist robbery attempts, avoid displaying signs of wealth, and skip traveling alone at night. 

The embassy also warns against leaving valuables in vehicles and notes that thieves may use signal blockers to prevent cars from locking. 

Travelers are urged to be cautious around banks and ATMs, set daily withdrawal limits, minimize funds in any single account, and notify their bank of upcoming trips.

Those staying in Airbnbs, rentals, or hotels are urged to research properties in advance, choose locations with strong security, keep doors and windows locked, and avoid listings where past reviewers mentioned safety problems. The embassy also suggests considering travel insurance that covers loss or theft of valuables while abroad.

Costa Rica is currently rated at level two under the State Department’s four-step advisory system, meaning travelers are urged to exercise increased caution because of crime.

Travelers should review the full advisories at Travel.State.gov before making any plans abroad.

Officials say travelers should review the full advisory at Travel.State.gov before making international plans, and can check the interactive risk map at travelmaps.state.gov.

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