There have been several kidnappings, including of foreigners. Incidents of crime commonly occur in downtown San Jose, at beaches, at the airport, and at national parks and other tourist attractions. There have been assaults on tourist buses as well. 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 forest rangers for current park conditions. The loss or theft abroad 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.