Scam in IranFake officials
Fake police demanding documents or a search in Iran
How it works
Uniformed men in unmarked cars show fake identification. They ask to see your passport or search your luggage. Their appearance can make them hard to distinguish from real police.
Warning signs
- Uniformed men approach from an unmarked car.
- They flash identification and demand your passport.
- They want to search your luggage on the spot.
How to avoid it
- Do not hand over your passport or open your luggage merely because someone flashes an ID.
- If you feel unsafe, head to the nearest police station.
- Seek help through police on 110 if you need assistance.
If it happens to you
Avoid a confrontation. Go to the nearest police station, called a kalantari, if you can do so safely. Call 110 if you feel threatened.
- 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.
- Government adviceSafety and security - Iran travel advice - GOV.UKThe FCDO reports attempted robberies of tourists by thieves posing as plainclothes police and warns against handing over documents or cash.Read on Government advice
- Government advice2026Iran travel adviceCanada warns that people posing as plainclothes police may ask foreigners to show their passports and foreign currency.Read on Government advice
- Government advice2026Iran Travel Advice & Safety | SmartravellerAustralia describes men claiming to be plainclothes police searching for foreign drug dealers and asking visitors to show wallets and identification.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the fake police demanding documents or a search scam in Iran?
Uniformed men in unmarked cars show fake identification. They ask to see your passport or search your luggage. Their appearance can make them hard to distinguish from real police.
How can I spot it early?
Uniformed men approach from an unmarked car. They flash identification and demand your passport. They want to search your luggage on the spot.
How do I avoid fake police demanding documents or a search in Iran?
Do not hand over your passport or open your luggage merely because someone flashes an ID. If you feel unsafe, head to the nearest police station. Seek help through police on 110 if you need assistance.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Avoid a confrontation. Go to the nearest police station, called a kalantari, if you can do so safely. Call 110 if you feel threatened.
Where in Iran does this happen?
Tourist encounters in Tehran and Isfahan It has been reported in Tehran, Isfahan.
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.
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