Scam in IranChanging money
Counterfeit cash from street money changers in Iran
How it works
Individuals offering currency exchange on the street may give you counterfeit money. These street exchanges carry greater risk than using a licensed exchange office.
Warning signs
- Someone offers to exchange money on the street.
- The exchange takes place outside a licensed office.
- The person cannot show an exchange-office licence.
How to avoid it
- Use a licensed exchange office.
- Ask to see its licence from the Central Bank or local guild.
- Decline offers from individuals along Ferdosi Street.
- Check and count the cash before leaving the counter.
If it happens to you
Keep any messages, receipts and details of the exchange. Report suspected counterfeit money to police. Do not try to spend it.
- Get somewhere safe. If someone threatens you, put your safety ahead of money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, where it happened and any details you remember. Keep receipts, messages and booking records.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were stolen, contact the issuer or mobile provider promptly to secure them.
- Report fraud, theft or threats to police. Call 110 for help or visit a police station. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was taken. Tell your travel insurer and keep copies of reports and expenses.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the counterfeit cash from street money changers scam in Iran?
Individuals offering currency exchange on the street may give you counterfeit money. These street exchanges carry greater risk than using a licensed exchange office.
How can I spot it early?
Someone offers to exchange money on the street. The exchange takes place outside a licensed office. The person cannot show an exchange-office licence.
How do I avoid counterfeit cash from street money changers in Iran?
Use a licensed exchange office. Ask to see its licence from the Central Bank or local guild. Decline offers from individuals along Ferdosi Street. Check and count the cash before leaving the counter.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep any messages, receipts and details of the exchange. Report suspected counterfeit money to police. Do not try to spend it.
Where in Iran does this happen?
Ferdosi Street It has been reported in Tehran.
How common is this scam in Iran?
Occasional. Iran is described as a relatively low-crime country, but taxi overcharging, counterfeit money, fake police and theft can affect visitors. Take extra care when arranging fares, exchanging cash or moving through crowded bazaars, buses and places of worship. The frequency of most scams is not clear.
Are there similar scams in Iran?
Yes: poor hotel currency-exchange rates.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 110 or visit a police station. English-speaking operators are available on 110. A police station is called a kalantari. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official contact channel to report stolen cards, secure the account and ask about any disputed transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your own country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and a record of the loss. Ride-hailing support: for a Snapp trip, contact its support line for help with driver communication. English-speaking support is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Iran?
Police: 110, Ambulance and emergency medical services: 115, Fire and rescue: 125, Iranian Red Crescent rescue and relief hotline: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck