There have been several kidnappings, including foreigners, in recent years. Incidents of crime commonly occur in downtown San Jose, at beaches, at the airport, and at national parks and other tourist attractions. There were assaults on tourist buses in recent years. Travelers who keep valuables out of sight, do not wear jewelry, and travel in groups during daylight hours lessen their risk. Local law enforcement agencies have limited capabilities.
Money exchangers on the street pass off counterfeit U.S. dollars and local currency.
Credit card fraud is growing. Some trails in national parks have been closed because of low numbers of visitors and reported robberies of hikers in the area. Tourists should check with park rangers for current park conditions. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy in San Jose. Travelers may wish to carry a copy of their passport data page and leave the passport itself in the hotel safe or other secure location.