Scam in BahamasShopping
Counterfeit Cuban cigars in Bahamas
How it works
Sellers offer fake cigars as genuine Cuban cigars. The vast majority of cigars sold as Cuban in the Bahamas are counterfeit. A box with a glass lid is a definite sign of a fake.
Warning signs
- The cigars come in a box with a glass lid.
- A supposedly Cuban cigar costs $10; genuine ones cost upwards of $30 each.
- The seller operates on the street, in a market or in a small combined cigar and liquor shop.
How to avoid it
- Buy only from a reputable, dedicated tobacconist.
- Avoid street and market sellers and small combined cigar and liquor shops.
- Reject glass-lid boxes and $10 offers for supposedly Cuban cigars.
- Research how to identify genuine Cuban cigars before buying.
If it happens to you
- Move somewhere safe. Avoid a confrontation if the seller becomes threatening.
- Keep the receipt, packaging and any messages. Write down the seller's location and what happened.
- If it is safe, ask the seller for a refund and explain the problem clearly.
- If you paid by card, contact your card issuer promptly to ask about a payment dispute. Freeze the card if its details may have been stolen.
- Report suspected fraud or theft to the police. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need consular help.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- TripadvisorParadise Island Forum2018Cuban cigars in Nassau Sept 2018 update - Paradise Island ForumA returning visitor warned that inexpensive Cuban cigars sold around Nassau's downtown cruise-ship area were poor counterfeits.Read on Tripadvisor
- Redditr/cubancigars2021Do all shops in Bahamas sell fakes?A poster seeking advice for a friend honeymooning in the Bahamas received replies identifying the discussed Cohibas as counterfeit and warning about tourist-area sellers.Read on Reddit
- News2007Fake Cigar CentralA visiting cigar journalist reported apparent counterfeit Cuban cigars in four Nassau shops, citing suspicious bands, packaging, construction and prices.Read on News
Questions
What is the counterfeit Cuban cigars scam in Bahamas?
Sellers offer fake cigars as genuine Cuban cigars. The vast majority of cigars sold as Cuban in the Bahamas are counterfeit. A box with a glass lid is a definite sign of a fake.
How can I spot it early?
The cigars come in a box with a glass lid. A supposedly Cuban cigar costs $10; genuine ones cost upwards of $30 each. The seller operates on the street, in a market or in a small combined cigar and liquor shop.
How do I avoid counterfeit Cuban cigars in Bahamas?
Buy only from a reputable, dedicated tobacconist. Avoid street and market sellers and small combined cigar and liquor shops. Reject glass-lid boxes and $10 offers for supposedly Cuban cigars. Research how to identify genuine Cuban cigars before buying.
Where in Bahamas does this happen?
Street sellers, markets and small shops combining cigar and liquor sales.
How much can it cost me?
A $10 supposedly Cuban cigar is fake. Genuine Cuban cigars cost upwards of $30 each.
How common is this scam in Bahamas?
Very common. Counterfeit Cuban cigars are widespread in the Bahamas: the vast majority sold as Cuban are fake. Street and market purchases need particular care, and violent crime is also a concern in cities, especially Nassau.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report suspected fraud, theft, threats or assault. Bring receipts, photographs and a clear account of what happened. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer: use your banking app or the contact number on your card. Explain the purchase and ask about disputing the payment. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport was stolen or you need consular assistance.
Reviewed by @snuck