The U.S. State Department has issued an updated travel advisory for Brazil, urging Americans to exercise increased caution due to risks including violent crime, kidnapping, and express robberies. The advisory, updated on August 31, maintains Brazil's "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" status.
Violent criminal acts such as murder, armed robbery, and carjacking are reported to occur in Brazil's urban areas at all hours. The State Department specifically noted that criminals may target foreigners met through dating apps or in bars, subsequently drugging and robbing them. Rio de Janeiro was highlighted in the advisory for common assaults involving sedatives or drugs in drinks.
Americans traveling to Brazil are also warned about "express kidnappings," a crime where victims are forced at gunpoint to withdraw cash from ATMs or transfer funds via banking apps. While kidnapping for ransom involving U.S. citizens is rare, the advisory states that foreigners are vulnerable, though Brazilians are the most frequent targets.
Certain areas in Brazil remain under a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" warning. These include international land borders, informal housing developments, and specific zones surrounding the capital, Brasília.
Travelers are advised to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid displaying wealth, and exercise caution at night, particularly around beaches, bars, transportation centers, and on public transit. The State Department also recommends closely monitoring drinks, refraining from accepting food or drinks from strangers, and being alert to potential online dating scams. Passengers on public buses in Brazil are identified as being at a higher risk of robbery or assault.
These warnings for Brazil come amid other recent travel advisories issued by the State Department. Americans have been urged to reconsider travel to Israel due to rapidly changing security conditions and to exercise increased caution in Ecuador because of violent crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.