What to Do After Theft in Greece: A Step-by-Step Recovery Checklist
First: get to a safe place and take a breath
If you’ve just realized something was stolen—phone, wallet, bag, or documents—move to a safe, well-lit location. A nearby café, hotel lobby, or shop is ideal. Stress makes it harder to think clearly, and your next steps are most effective when done in the first hour.If you believe you’re in immediate danger or the incident is ongoing, call 112 (the pan-European emergency number used in Greece) and describe your location and situation.
Step 1: confirm what’s missing and what’s at risk
Do a quick inventory:- Phone (and whether it was unlocked)
- Wallet (cash, cards, ID)
- Passport or residence documents
- Keys (hotel keys, home keys, rental keys)
- Any devices (tablet, camera) and what accounts they’re logged into
Knowing exactly what’s missing helps you prioritize: financial accounts first, then identity documents, then logistics like replacing keys.
Step 2: secure your money and accounts immediately
If your bank cards were taken, freeze them right away using your banking app or by calling your bank’s emergency line. If you have multiple cards, freeze the ones that were in the same wallet even if you’re not 100% sure they’re gone.If your phone is missing:
- Use your device’s tracking tool (for example, Find My or similar services) to locate it, mark it as lost, and lock it.
- Change passwords for your primary email account first. Email is the gateway to resetting other passwords.
- Sign out of critical apps where possible (banking, payment wallets, social media, messaging).
If you used a payment wallet, disable it and notify your bank. Keep screenshots of any suspicious transactions for later reporting.
Step 3: contact your accommodation or rental provider
If keys, room cards, or rental documents were stolen, inform your hotel or host immediately. They can deactivate key cards, reissue access, and note the incident. If you suspect someone could identify your room from stolen documents, request a room change.If a rental car key or documents are missing, contact the rental company and follow their instructions. Don’t wait—key replacement and security steps can take time.
Step 4: file a police report in Greece
A police report is often required for insurance claims and for replacing passports or certain documents. Go to the nearest police station as soon as possible.Bring:
- Any remaining identification you have
- Photos/scans of stolen documents (if available)
- Device serial number/IMEI for a stolen phone (if you have it)
- Details: time window, location, description of items
For more in-depth guides and related topics, be sure to check out our homepage where we cover a wide range of subjects.
Be clear and factual. If language is a barrier, ask your accommodation to help you with the process or interpretation where possible.
Step 5: replace passport or travel documents (for visitors)
If your passport is stolen, contact your embassy or consulate. Procedures vary by nationality, but most require:- A police report
- Passport photos (often needed for emergency travel documents)
- Proof of identity (copies help a lot)
- Travel itinerary or proof of onward travel
This is where having digital copies stored securely (not only on the stolen phone) becomes invaluable.
Step 6: handle SIM, phone number, and two-factor authentication
If your phone number is tied to two-factor authentication, contact your mobile carrier to block the SIM and request a replacement SIM/eSIM. This prevents SIM swap misuse and restores your ability to receive verification codes.Once your number is back, review account security:
- Change passwords for key accounts
- Enable authenticator-app based 2FA where possible
- Review login history and active sessions
Step 7: insurance and documentation
If you have travel insurance or device insurance, open a claim quickly. Insurers typically ask for:- Police report reference
- Proof of ownership/value (receipts, bank statements, device purchase records)
- Timeline and location details
Take notes while the memory is fresh. If you spoke with staff, security, or witnesses, record names and contact details.
Step 8: protect against identity misuse
If your ID, residence permit, or passport was taken, monitor your accounts for unusual activity. Depending on your home country, you may be able to place a fraud alert or take additional identity protection steps.If you used the same password across multiple accounts, treat this as a security incident and update them. Prioritize email, banking, social, and any account tied to stored payment methods.
How to be better prepared next time
A little preparation reduces the impact of theft.- Keep digital copies of passport, ID, and travel insurance stored securely (cloud storage with strong login).
- Write down emergency phone numbers for banks and your embassy outside your phone.
- Carry a backup card separately from your wallet.