New York City Emergency Card

Tourist Police / Authorities

• NYPD Times Square (Midtown South Precinct)
  +1 212 239 9811
  357 West 35th St — 24/7
• NYC Consumer & Worker Protection
  311
  Bill / restaurant / merchant complaints

First 10 minutes if something happens

1. 1.Get to a safe, public spot (café, hotel lobby, shop) and call All emergencies on 911 if anyone is hurt or in immediate danger.
2. 2.Freeze cards immediately in your bank app (do this before calling the bank — it's faster). Revoke Apple Pay / Google Pay from a trusted device if your phone was taken.
3. 3.Change the password on your primary email from a trusted device, then sign out of every other session. Email is the master key to everything else.
4. 4.Contact NYPD Times Square (Midtown South Precinct) on +1 212 239 9811 to file a report — you'll need the reference number for insurance, banks, and your embassy.

Full 8-step checklist at gacs.app/safe-traveller/new-york-city

Top 5 scams to watch for

1. 1. Times Square 'free CD' / mixtape
   A rapper hands you a CD, then demands $20–$50 once it's in your hand.
   Avoid: Do NOT accept anything handed to you in Times Square. Keep hands in pockets.
   If it happens: Drop the CD on the ground and walk away.
2. 2. Costumed character photo shakedown
   Elmo / Spider-Man / Minnie poses with your kid, then demands $20–$40 per photo.
   Avoid: Keep small children close in Times Square. Do not let characters approach without asking.
   If it happens: Give $2–$5 if you posed. Walk away firmly if they demand more.
3. 3. Fake ticket sellers (Broadway / attractions)
   'Discount' Broadway or Empire State tickets from street sellers are fakes.
   Avoid: TKTS booth in Times Square is the ONLY legit discount source for Broadway.
   If it happens: If already scammed, dispute the charge with your card issuer — Chase and Amex are aggressive on this.
4. 4. Subway swipe helpers (JFK / Penn Station / Times Square)
   Someone offers to 'swipe you through' with their MetroCard, then charges $10–$20 for a $2.90 ride.
   Avoid: Use OMNY (tap credit/debit card or phone directly at turnstile). No MetroCard needed.
   If it happens: Say 'no thanks' firmly and step away.
5. 5. Restaurant tip auto-add + suggested tip
   Bill shows '18% gratuity included', then the tip line suggests 22–25% on top.
   Avoid: Check the itemised bill for 'gratuity', 'service', or 'auto-grat' BEFORE signing.
   If it happens: Refuse to sign a doubled-tip bill. Ask for the manager.