Scam in PanamaOther tricks
Counterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes in Panama
How it works
Counterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes have circulated. Many businesses refuse these denominations. Those that accept them may ask for your passport and record your details and the notes' serial numbers.
Warning signs
- You are offered a large note that you cannot confidently check.
How to avoid it
- Carry small bills for everyday purchases.
- Check large notes before accepting them.
- Ask for smaller notes if you are unsure.
If it happens to you
If you suspect a note is counterfeit, do not try to spend it. Ask a bank or the police how to handle it.
- Move to a safe place. Do not chase someone or argue if you feel threatened.
- Contact your card issuer immediately if a card or its details were stolen. Freeze affected cards.
- Save receipts, booking messages, payment records and any details you can safely record.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to the police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing, your embassy or consulate.
- Change affected passwords if your phone or accounts were accessed. Keep copies of all reports.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government advice2026Panama Travel Advice & Safety | SmartravellerAustralia’s official travel advice warns visitors to Panama about counterfeit currency, specifically US$50 and US$100 notes.Read on Government advice
- News2025Decomisan más de 59 mil dólares falsos y aprehenden a dos individuos durante operación NumeralTVN reported that police seized more than US$59,000 in counterfeit currency, including US$50 and US$100 notes, in Juan Díaz and Don Bosco, without identifying tourist victims.Read on News
- Government advicePOLICÍA ALLANA RESIDENCIA EN PUEBLO NUEVO, Y UBICA MÁS DE 50 MIL DÓLARES FALSIFICADOSPanama’s National Police reported finding hundreds of counterfeit US$100 notes during a residential raid in Pueblo Nuevo, without identifying tourist victims.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the counterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes scam in Panama?
Counterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes have circulated. Many businesses refuse these denominations. Those that accept them may ask for your passport and record your details and the notes' serial numbers.
How can I spot it early?
You are offered a large note that you cannot confidently check.
How do I avoid counterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes in Panama?
Carry small bills for everyday purchases. Check large notes before accepting them. Ask for smaller notes if you are unsure.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If you suspect a note is counterfeit, do not try to spend it. Ask a bank or the police how to handle it.
How common is this scam in Panama?
Occasional. Most of Panama is very safe, though the frequency of tourist scams is unclear. Counterfeit US$50 and US$100 notes are a known concern, and agreeing taxi fares before a ride helps prevent disputes.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, suspected fraud or counterfeit money. Bring any receipts, messages and other evidence, and request a report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or a verified contact number to freeze cards and report suspicious transactions. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and ask which records are needed. Keep receipts and police paperwork. Embassy or consulate: use official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen and you need replacement travel documents. Booking provider: for a disputed booking or service, report the problem through the provider's official support channel and attach your records.
Reviewed by @snuck