1. Basic safety precautions
Crime is more likely to occur in the big cities than in the countryside. While traveling in large cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and Recife, it's important to practice common sense safety precautions.
First, know the emergency numbers in Brazil: 190 for police, 192 for an ambulance, and 193 for the fire department.
"Socorro" (pronounced "soh-KOH-hu") is the word for "Help!"
If someone asks you for your money or valuables, never fight back.
Research the places you will be going to to find out about any common scams there.
2. Consider your appearance
Try to blend in as much as possible. Look confident and comfortable while walking around in a city.
Don't wear expensive jewelry or watches, and try to dress in a way that does not attract attention. In some places, businesspeople can be targets. Avoid dressing like a businessperson in places where scams are common.
Don't carry a laptop bag as it can be a target for thieves.
Avoid having expensive cameras or gadgets visible. Consider using a small camera during your travels (cameras like the Canon G series are compact yet take high quality photos). Keep your camera out of sight except when you are taking a photo. Consider using a plain shopping bag to carry your camera--this will be less conspicuous and will allow you to blend in with the locals in city areas.
3. Staying safe while out
Be especially careful when out after dark. Don’t walk alone, avoid dark streets, and stay aware of your surroundings. Take taxis when carrying valuables, and avoid taking public transportation at night.
Don't carry large amounts of money, and keep your wallet in your front pocket. If you'll be using money for transportation or shopping at a market, consider carrying small amounts of money in a place that's easy to access with larger amounts hidden in a money belt under your clothes--this way you will avoid having large bills visible to others.
Avoid sleazy or empty parks, and never wander into favelas no matter what time of day. If you begin to feel unsure about a place you have come upon, err on the side of caution; turn around and go back.
At airports and other transportation hubs, never give your bags to someone who offers to carry them, and do not leave your bags unattended for even a moment. If you are standing around, keep your bags on your body at all times--just leaving your bags next to you is an easy way for a quick thief to take off with them.
4. Staying safe while in your accommodation
Don’t keep your valuables visible in your room. If your accommodation is reliable, keep your valuables in a safe. You can also bring a small bag with a lock and store it out of sight in your room.
When you are in your room, use a rubber doorstop behind the door to make it impossible for anyone to enter.
Check windows and doors for any signs of possible entry. If you are concerned about the area where you are staying or your accommodation, you may want to bring extra rubber doorstops to secure your windows.
5. Staying safe while on the beach
The beach is a popular place for tourists in Brazil, and those who hope to take advantage of them know this. Don't bring valuables to the beach. Bring only your towel and basic necessities for the day, including very little money (enough for drinks and/or lunch).
If someone offers you a drink for free on the beach, do not take it as there have been reports of tourists being drugged on beaches. Purchasing bottled drinks and coconut water is a safe option, or purchase alcoholic drinks from a vendor.
Don't stay on empty beaches at night.