In recent years, Brazil has seen a surge in cell phone thefts and credit card scams during Carnival, a time of celebration and large gatherings. According to reports from Jornal Nacional, specialists have shared vital advice to help participants in these festivities protect their valuables. The alarming statistics highlight that in São Paulo during Carnival 2025, there were 21 incidents of mobile phone theft reported every hour, while Rio de Janeiro recorded 2,248 thefts during the official celebration days.

The article features a personal account from a businesswoman named Flávia Lopes Pereira, who experienced the theft of her cell phone amidst the celebration crowd. This narrative underscores the practical risks faced by Carnival attendees, as the fun and excitement can quickly turn into distress if personal belongings are lost or stolen. Many revelers are now resorting to taking older phones with them to minimize the emotional impact of a robbery; however, this brings a new challenge as those old devices might still have banking applications installed, increasing the risk of financial fraud should they be lost.

This growing trend of theft necessitates heightened awareness and preparedness among Carnival goers to sum up the protective measures suggested by experts. Attendees are encouraged to take proactive steps, which might include using old devices, securing personal items, and remaining vigilant about their surroundings. During a time meant for celebration, the necessity for caution is clear, placing the responsibility on individuals to safeguard their belongings while enjoying the festivities.