Security Information for Ukraine

As in all large cities, the problem of crime in Kyiv is a facet of daily life. Western visitors, especially short-term visitors such as tourists and students, are the primary foreign targets. Most street crime is non-violent, but there have been incidents involving the use of small caliber firearms during burglaries/robberies. Street crime ranges from simple pick-pocketing - the most common type of incident - and purse snatching, to muggings, armed robbery, drugging unsuspecting victims (who are then robbed), and shootings.

A second type of crime that has become more prevalent is credit card and ATM fraud. It is highly recommended that visitors and permanent residents of Ukraine refrain from using credit cards or ATM cards as much as possible. Even restaurants, hotels and large department stores have been known to be subject to theft of credit card numbers, which are then either used immediately or sold.

Computer fraud is also common in Ukraine. The U.S. Embassy has received numerous reports from both U.S. citizens and others who have paid for items or responded to advertisements on the Internet from fictitious Ukrainian businesses, sent in money or provided credit card numbers, and then failed to receive the goods or had their credit cards used illegally.

The most significant threat to long-term residents is burglary of apartments and vehicles. Although few cars are actually stolen, especially those with alarm systems and security wheel locks, vehicle break-ins - including theft of stereo equipment and miscellaneous items left inside - and vehicle vandalism are common. Residential and hotel break-ins usually take place while the resident is absent. Carjackings, assaults in apartment building corridors and stairwells, and armed break-ins have been reported.

American citizens of African and Asian descent may be subject to racially motivated harassment from both civilians and police officials. There have been cases of harassment that included physical assault.

There have been reports over the last year involving incidents of harassment and intimidation directed against foreign business persons and interests. These range from physical threats, possibly motivated by rival commercial interests tied to organized crime, to local government entities engaging in such practices as arbitrary termination or amendment of business licenses, dilution of corporate stock to diminish U.S. investor interest, delay of payment or delivery of goods, arbitrary "inspections" that often find expensive upgrades or improvements, etc.

The following recommendations will reduce the chances of becoming a victim of criminal activity:

• When you go out, go in a group - use the buddy system.
• Always avoid using short cuts, narrow alleys, or poorly-lit streets. Before entering an underground pedestrian crosswalk, be aware of who is around. Be alert for gangs of youths, con-artists, and beggars including those purporting to be "handicapped".
• Avoid wearing conspicuous and expensive jewelry.
• Be aware of being bumped or pushed. Pickpockets frequently jostle their victims to distract them. Be cautious in crowds or crowded areas, such as on public transportation, at train stations, open air markets, and popular tourist sites.
• If driving, strictly obey traffic regulations and carry your registration and license with you. Remember to keep your windows up and doors locked.
• Never patronize unmarked/private taxicabs or enter any taxi carrying unfamiliar passengers. Always use a commercial or official taxi service.
• Carry only as much cash as you need.
• Carry your U.S. passport at all times (as required by Ukrainian law), but keep a photocopy of the passport and any Ukrainian visa you may have in a safe place to make it easier to replace them in case of loss or theft.
• Do not carry important documents (i.e., U.S. driver’s license, credit cards, or checkbook), which you are not using in Ukraine.
• Be careful when using credit cards. Even when paying hotel bills, it is recommended that you pay cash.
• Do not use local ATM machines, due to the possibility of misuse of your card.
• Report all problems to the Embassy’s American Citizens Services office.