Scam in KazakhstanFood and drink
Alcohol of doubtful origin in Kazakhstan
How it works
Some small shops sell alcohol of doubtful origin. A cheap bottle may be unsafe to drink.
Warning signs
- You cannot establish where the alcohol came from.
- A bottle has a damaged seal or unclear label.
How to avoid it
- Buy alcohol from a supermarket.
- Check the label and seal before buying.
- Avoid drinking alcohol whose origin you cannot establish.
If it happens to you
Stop drinking it. If you feel unwell, seek medical help promptly and keep the bottle or packaging if safe.
- Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or physically confront a driver.
- If you are injured, threatened or seriously unwell, call for emergency help.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone was stolen, secure your accounts and contact your mobile provider.
- Save receipts, booking details, messages and vehicle details. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to police and ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer, booking service or card issuer as needed. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you are detained.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the alcohol of doubtful origin scam in Kazakhstan?
Some small shops sell alcohol of doubtful origin. A cheap bottle may be unsafe to drink.
How can I spot it early?
You cannot establish where the alcohol came from. A bottle has a damaged seal or unclear label.
How do I avoid alcohol of doubtful origin in Kazakhstan?
Buy alcohol from a supermarket. Check the label and seal before buying. Avoid drinking alcohol whose origin you cannot establish.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stop drinking it. If you feel unwell, seek medical help promptly and keep the bottle or packaging if safe.
Where in Kazakhstan does this happen?
Some small corner shops called astanovka
How common is this scam in Kazakhstan?
Occasional. Kazakhstan's cities are generally safe during the day, but travellers should watch for taxi overcharging, luggage theft and demands for cash from corrupt police. Pickpocketing and mugging also occur, with greater risks in unofficial taxis, some areas after dark and when travelling alone while drunk.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 102 for police assistance. For a non-urgent report, visit a police station and bring any evidence. Ask for a report or reference number. Emergency services: call 112 if you are in immediate danger or need emergency help. Ambulance: call 103 for urgent medical help after an attack or suspected poisoning. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or published contact number to block a stolen card and report unauthorised payments. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, report the incident through its support channel. Include the booking and driver details. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport, detention or finding legal assistance. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of your loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Kazakhstan?
General emergency: 112, Police: 102, Ambulance: 103, Fire: 101.
Reviewed by @snuck