Complete guide: Theft or assault abroadUnited States
2 min read
volagressionvictimeplaintesécurité
Summary
What to do immediately after being a victim of theft or assault.
After a theft or assault
Being a victim of a crime abroad is traumatic. Here are the steps to follow.
Immediate safety
Absolute priority
- Move away from danger
- Go to a safe place
- If injured, seek medical care
Don't take risks
Do not pursue the attackers.
Steps to follow
1. File a report
- Go to the police station
- Request an interpreter if necessary
- Obtain a copy of the police report
2. Contact your embassy
- Assistance for nationals
- Help with lost documents
- Support if needed
3. Notify your banks
- Cancel your cards
- Block your accounts if necessary
4. Contact your insurance companies
- Travel insurance
- Home insurance (sometimes)
- Legal protection
Stolen documents
Passport
- Embassy for an emergency passport
- Loss/theft declaration to the police
Bank cards
- Immediate cancellation
- Numbers to keep: noted separately
Telephone
- Blocking via IMEI with your provider
- Location tracking if enabled
Medical assistance
In case of injury
- Emergency room at the nearest hospital
- Keep all medical documents
- Certificates for insurance
Psychological trauma
- Don't neglect the emotional impact
- Talk to a professional
- Victim support associations
Compensation
Travel insurance
May cover:
- Stolen items
- Medical expenses
- Repatriation if necessary
Victim compensation fund
Some countries have funds for foreign victims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dois-je porter plainte même pour un petit vol ?
Oui, le dépôt de plainte est nécessaire pour l'assurance et peut aider la police à identifier les auteurs.
L'ambassade peut-elle me prêter de l'argent ?
L'ambassade peut aider à contacter vos proches pour un transfert, mais ne prête généralement pas d'argent.
Comment me faire rembourser par l'assurance ?
Conservez tous les justificatifs (plainte, factures, certificats médicaux) et déclarez le sinistre rapidement.