All set for your European adventure? Unfortunately, many tourist destinations across the world are prone to scams, and Europe is no exception. Arm yourself with essential information to avoid common tourist scams in Europe. Whether it’s elaborate schemes or routine pickpocketing, our comprehensive guide is your go-to resource to identify potential pitfalls and learn effective avoidance strategies.
Join us on a journey of insight as we arm you with the knowledge to outsmart scammers and make your Eurotrip a memorable and secure experience.
11 common tourist scams in Europe every tourist should know about
The friendship bracelet scam
Beware of vendors that approach you under the guise of a ‘demonstration’. They may swiftly tie a friendship bracelet on your wrist and then demand exorbitant fees, leaving you feeling obligated to pay for a bracelet you never intended to buy.
Switching money
When making a small payment with a large bill, be cautious of scammers, whether they are vendors, waiters, or taxi drivers. They might attempt to switch your notes by pretending to drop the larger bill and quickly switching it with a lower denomination note. Clearly announce the denomination of your note when handing it over.
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The new ‘friend’ scam
While travelling in Europe, be cautious of individuals feigning friendship to extract money. They might strike up a conversation, befriend you, and then invite you out for a drink. Once the bill arrives, you may discover the total is significantly higher than expected. To avoid such mishaps, suggest a venue of your choice or politely decline the invitation.
Finding your seat on the train
Be wary of railroad attendants rushing to assist you in finding your seats or carrying your luggage. They may turn out to be scammers looking to either make off with your luggage or ask for a hefty tip for their ‘help’.
Room inspectors
At mid-range European hotels, individuals posing as ‘hotel room inspectors’ might knock on your door. While one inspects your room and belongings, the other sneakily steals your valuables. Always confirm with the hotel desk before allowing such ‘hotel room inspectors’ into your room.
Fake petitions
In Europe, beware of individuals thrusting official-looking petitions under your nose, requesting your signature. Often, these turn out to be deceptive pledges for donation. Stay vigilant, especially at outdoor cafes, where scammers use the distraction to pilfer your valuables.
Fake police
Official-looking people claiming to be ‘Tourist Police’ might approach you for a supposed inspection, citing reasons like narcotics, counterfeit notes, or other illegal substances. While they distract you, they expertly steal your valuables and leave before you can apprehend them. Never hand your wallet or bags to strangers; insist on verifying their credentials.
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Broken camera
Be wary when asked to take a photo of someone using their camera or phone. When you try to hand the camera back, scammers may fumble and intentionally drop the device, claiming it’s broken, and then demand compensation. In another version of one of the most common tourist scams in Europe, an accomplice may pickpocket you while you help collect the broken pieces of the camera/phone. Stay alert and avoid falling for these tricks.
The fake salesman scam
A well-dressed and well-spoken salesman, with a car, might approach you, sharing details of their successful business and showcasing prototypes like jackets, expensive-looking jewellery, or even electronic items. They may even attempt to gift you something seemingly authentic and expensive-looking. Beware, as the ‘gift’ is likely fake, and moments later, they will ask you for some cash because they left their credit card at home. Be cautious, and don’t fall for this costly ruse.
The distraction scam
Operating on the principle of distraction, this multi-people scam involves one person engaging you in conversation while their partner pilfers through your pockets or bags. Various tactics, like feigning fainting, falling down an elevator, starting fights, or even asking for directions, serve as smokescreens for theft. Stay alert in crowded tourist areas of Europe to avoid falling victim to these orchestrated distractions and scams.
The ticketing scam
One of the most common scams in Europe is related to ticketing and involves scammers posing as helpful locals near self-help kiosks at major railway stations and bus terminals. They offer assistance in buying tickets but their goal is to sell you invalid ones or snatch your money during the transaction. Be wary of unsolicited help and ensure you purchase tickets from authorised sources.
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Protecting yourself from tourist scams in Europe: Tips and tricks
The scam artists may be smart, but you can be smarter. Here are a few tips and tricks to thwart scammers’ attempts to take your valuables:
- Set daily limits on your credit and debit cards to minimise potential losses.
- Opt for concealed bags worn underneath clothing instead of easily accessible handbags or fanny packs.
- Be extra careful of your surroundings and bags in tourist hotspots, where scams are more prevalent.
- Stay vigilant in crowded places, especially during a commotion or disturbance, as these could be a scammer’s way of keeping your attention on them while they pick your pockets.
- Politely but firmly decline signing petitions or giving directions, as these can be tactics employed by scammers to engage and exploit tourists.
(Feature image credit: bump23/Shutterstock)
Related: Warm Up Your Winter At These Sun-Kissed Destinations In Europe
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-Are tourist scams common in Europe?
Tourist scams are common all over the world, and Europe is no exception.
-How can I protect myself from tourist scams in Europe?
Be vigilant, avoid trusting strangers with your valuables, and keep a close eye on your luggage to protect yourself from tourist scams in Europe.
-How do I recognise people with fake petitions?
Fake petitions that scam artists offer for signatures are often in English, which might not be the country’s official language. That should be a sign that it is not an authentic petition.
-What should I do if I encounter an overpriced service?
There isn’t much to do if you have availed of an overpriced service, since payment for that would have to be made. To avoid such instances, always ask for the price of the service before availing them.
-How can I avoid falling for fraudulent ticket sales?
If you do need help with tickets and cannot figure out the self-help kiosks, wait in line at the manned windows to avoid purchasing fraudulent or invalid tickets.
-What should I do if approached by people asking for money?
A polite but firm shake of the head with a smile should be all that they get from you. Keep an eye on your bags and walk away swiftly from the situation as soon as possible.
-Are certain tourist areas in Europe that are more prone to scams?
Most tourist scams happen in crowded places, such as markets, carnivals, and popular tourist spots. These are places where you will need to keep your eye on your valuables at all times.
-How can I report a tourist scam?
Visiting the nearest police station or asking for help from your hotel help desk might be the best way to report a scam that you have fallen prey to.
Written By
Esha Dasgupta
Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked with TravelTriangle and Internet Moguls. When not in work mode, she can be found downing endless cups of coffee while reading Enid Blyton/Sidney Sheldon.
