The “Helpful Local” Scam: A New Warning For Tourists in Cancun

Picture this: you’re strolling through Cancun, the sun is shining, the turquoise water is calling your name, and you’re just about to bite into a perfect taco al pastor. Life is good. Suddenly, a friendly stranger taps you on the shoulder with a concerned look. “Excuse me,” they say in perfect English, “You have something on your jacket.”

You look down and, sure enough, there’s a mysterious brownish smear—mustard? Ketchup? Bird droppings? Before you can even process it, your new friend is dabbing at the stain with a napkin, apologizing profusely on behalf of whichever bird or hot dog vendor caused the mess. They are so helpful, so kind.

And while you’re distracted for just a few seconds, their accomplice has already lifted your wallet from your pocket or your phone from your bag.

Welcome to the “Helpful Local” scam, a classic street-level hustle that is seeing a resurgence in busy tourist areas. It’s a trick as old as time, but it’s remarkably effective because it preys on one simple thing: your good nature.

The Art of Distraction

The scam works because it creates a moment of chaos and confusion that you didn’t see coming. The most common version is the one described above, often called the “mustard scam.” The scammer, or their partner, discreetly squirts a substance on you in a crowd. Then, the “helpful” one appears, getting close, making you turn and shift your attention while they “help” you clean up.

But this trick has many variations. It could be someone who rushes up to tell you your backpack is unzipped, or a couple who “accidentally” trips and spills a drink near you. The goal is always the same: to distract your eyes and your mind for the split second it takes for a pickpocket to strike.

It’s a frustratingly clever trick because it turns a moment of kindness into a liability.

Help You Didn’t Ask For

The “Helpful Local” isn’t just a pickpocket’s partner. The scam can also be a setup for overcharging you. This includes the person outside a major attraction who tells you the main ticket line is “closed for a private event,” but they can “help” you get in through a “special entrance“—for three times the price.

Or it might be the overly friendly stranger at an ATM who notices you’re having trouble and offers to “help” you with the machine, all while trying to skim your card details or see your PIN. They thrive on creating a small problem and then selling you an expensive or dangerous solution.

How to Stay Safe Without Being Rude

So, how do you protect yourself without becoming a cynical tourist who distrusts everyone? It’s easier than you think. Here at The Cancun Sun, we believe a little bit of awareness goes a long way.

• A Firm “No, Gracias.” The most powerful tool in your arsenal. If someone you don’t know gets into your personal space or tries to touch you to “help,” put your hand up, take a step back, and give a firm but polite, “No, thank you.” Then, walk away. A genuine local will understand; a scammer will often look for an easier target.
• Handle It Yourself. If someone points out a stain, thank them, move to a safe spot like inside a shop or cafe, and then check your belongings and deal with the mess yourself. There’s no need for a stranger’s help with a napkin.

• Trust Your Gut. This is the golden rule of travel. Scammers create a sense of urgency and confusion. If a situation feels rushed, weird, or too good to be true, it probably is. Just remove yourself from the situation.

Cancun is full of genuinely kind and helpful people who make this place special. By being aware of these simple tricks, you can ensure that the only people “helping” you are the ones who truly mean it.