Scam in MongoliaTheft
Bag slashing in Mongolia
How it works
A thief cuts a bag to reach its contents. Keeping the zip closed alone does not prevent this type of theft.
Warning signs
- People are pressed closely against your bag.
- Your bag hangs behind you where you cannot watch it.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag in front of you in crowds.
- Carry money and important documents in a money belt or secure inner pocket.
- Avoid keeping all your valuables in one bag.
If it happens to you
Move away from the crowd and secure anything left in the bag. Check for missing cards, cash and documents, then report the theft to police.
- Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, secure your banking and other important accounts.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, booking records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report theft or assault at the district police station. Ask for a copy or reference for your report.
- Tell your embassy if you were attacked, lost your passport or need help. Contact your insurer and the relevant payment or booking provider.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/mongolia2024Mongolia, tourists, safetyA respondent says backpack slashing was previously a problem but explicitly expresses uncertainty about its current prevalence.Read on Reddit
- News2016The Persistent Purloining from Pick PocketsA visiting writer recounts hearing reports of bags being slashed or snatched among the theft methods affecting visitors to Ulaanbaatar.Read on News
Questions
What is the bag slashing scam in Mongolia?
A thief cuts a bag to reach its contents. Keeping the zip closed alone does not prevent this type of theft.
How can I spot it early?
People are pressed closely against your bag. Your bag hangs behind you where you cannot watch it.
How do I avoid bag slashing in Mongolia?
Keep your bag in front of you in crowds. Carry money and important documents in a money belt or secure inner pocket. Avoid keeping all your valuables in one bag.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move away from the crowd and secure anything left in the bag. Check for missing cards, cash and documents, then report the theft to police.
Where in Mongolia does this happen?
Crowded places and places where travellers are distracted.
How common is this scam in Mongolia?
Occasional. Mongolia is generally safe to visit, but theft is a concern, especially in Ulaanbaatar. Pickpocketing is the main problem for visitors; taxi overcharging, bag slashing and occasional robberies also occur. Some higher prices are regular pricing practices rather than scams.
Are there similar scams in Mongolia?
Yes: pickpocketing in markets and on public transport, street mugging.
Who can I report it to?
District police station: go to the district police station to make a formal statement after an attack or pickpocketing. Bring any records and ask for a report reference. Your country's embassy: tell your embassy after an attack or pickpocketing. It can also advise you if your passport is stolen. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Travel insurer: contact your insurer promptly. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of your loss. Taxi service, airline or booking provider: report a disputed charge through the provider's official contact channel. Include your agreed price, receipt and booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck