Is there a lot of crime in Ecuador?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered...

"Yes, there is some crime in Ecuador. Though it is not as prevalent as in some other Latin American countries, crime does occur, including theft, pickpocketing, assault and mugging. Additionally, there is organized crime related to international drug trafficking. Violent crime tends to be concentrated in some of the larger cities and tourists should exercise caution when travelling in certain areas," wrote a member who made the move to Ecuador.

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"You make yourself a victim if 1. You come here wearing expensive clothes and jewelry and waving the latest iPhone. 2. You buy a fancy house and show it off. 3. You refuse to integrate into the community, respectfully. You want to be one of us not one of them. 4. You don't learn Spanish. Automatically you are a gringo. 5. We bought clothing and phones, cheap, hear and so dress like the locals. 6. We buy carefully, not flashing big bills and try to spread our purchases around some to patronize many of the locals, not just one or two. But not big purchases.... 7. I don't carry a purse on the street, I put bills in my pocket, separated so I can just pull out one fiver instead of a wad. I leave my fancy cell phone at home. You need to use some sense. Try not to act like a rich space alien landing in their town and wandering around in a spacesuit," explained one expat living in Ecuador.

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Is there a lot of crime in Ecuador?

If you live in Ecuador, newcomers to Ecuador would love to hear your answer to this question.

About the Author

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.