Scam in EgyptOther tricks
Entrapment linked to offers of sex in Egypt
How it works
An offer of sex can be part of an entrapment scheme. Gay men are specifically identified as having been targeted. The exact setup is not described.
Warning signs
- A stranger approaches you with an unsolicited offer of sex.
How to avoid it
- Decline unsolicited offers of sex or drugs.
- Do not follow a stranger to a private location.
If it happens to you
Leave if you can do so safely. If detained or threatened, seek legal help and contact your embassy or consulate.
- Get to a safe, public place. End the interaction calmly and do not chase a thief.
- Check whether anyone needs medical help. Call 123 for an ambulance if there is an urgent medical problem.
- Block missing cards and report unauthorised payments to your card issuer. Secure affected accounts and a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, booking details, messages and payment records. Write down the time, location, amount and any vehicle or seller details.
- Report crime to police or a Tourism Police kiosk in a tourist area. Call 122 if you need urgent police assistance, and ask for a report reference.
- Contact your insurer, booking platform or transport operator as relevant. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing 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.
Questions
What is the entrapment linked to offers of sex scam in Egypt?
An offer of sex can be part of an entrapment scheme. Gay men are specifically identified as having been targeted. The exact setup is not described.
How can I spot it early?
A stranger approaches you with an unsolicited offer of sex.
How do I avoid entrapment linked to offers of sex in Egypt?
Decline unsolicited offers of sex or drugs. Do not follow a stranger to a private location.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Leave if you can do so safely. If detained or threatened, seek legal help and contact your embassy or consulate.
Where in Egypt does this happen?
Luxor's street-approach warnings also describe a wider risk in Egypt.
How common is this scam in Egypt?
Occasional. Tourist scams and persistent sales pressure are common in Egypt, especially in Luxor and busy tourist areas in Cairo. The main problems are inflated fares, shop diversions, misleading sales claims and demands for payment after unwanted help. Pickpocketing also happens, while reports of drink spiking in budget accommodation deserve particular care.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 122 for urgent police assistance. Report theft, threats or suspected fraud and ask for a report reference. Tourism Police: look for a designated Tourism Police kiosk in a tourist area. Explain what happened and show any receipts or other evidence. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to block a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Ride-hailing app, transport operator or booking platform: use its official support channel. Include the booking, driver messages, receipt and agreed price. Travel insurer: contact the claims or emergency-assistance service listed in your policy. Keep police references and supporting documents. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for a lost passport, detention or serious crime. Ask what consular help is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Egypt?
Police: 122, Ambulance: 123, Fire: 180, Highway: 136.
Reviewed by @snuck