Scam in GreeceFake officials
Fake police wallet check in Greece
How it works
Someone stops you to ask directions. Other men arrive, show fake police badges and accuse you of getting drugs from that person. They ask for your passport and wallet. While you focus on explaining yourself, one takes money from the wallet.
Warning signs
- A directions request is quickly followed by an accusation about drugs.
- Men claiming to be police demand both your passport and wallet.
- One person distracts you while another handles your belongings.
How to avoid it
- Keep your wallet in your own hands.
- Ask to verify the officers through police on 100.
- Suggest resolving the check at a police station.
- Do not let several people separate you from your belongings.
If it happens to you
Move to safety and contact police on 100. Record descriptions and check whether money, cards or identity documents are missing.
- Get to a safe public place. Avoid confronting thieves or anyone threatening you. Call 112 if there is immediate danger.
- Check what is missing. Freeze stolen cards and contact your card issuer about disputed payments.
- Save evidence. Keep receipts, bills, booking details and payment records. Write down the time, place and descriptions.
- Report the incident to police. For taxi fare fraud, keep the number plate and receipt and contact the tourist police on 171.
- If your passport or identity document is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement guidance.
- Contact your insurer if you have cover. Keep the police report reference and copies of any supporting documents.
Questions
What is the fake police wallet check scam in Greece?
Someone stops you to ask directions. Other men arrive, show fake police badges and accuse you of getting drugs from that person. They ask for your passport and wallet. While you focus on explaining yourself, one takes money from the wallet.
How can I spot it early?
A directions request is quickly followed by an accusation about drugs. Men claiming to be police demand both your passport and wallet. One person distracts you while another handles your belongings.
How do I avoid fake police wallet check in Greece?
Keep your wallet in your own hands. Ask to verify the officers through police on 100. Suggest resolving the check at a police station. Do not let several people separate you from your belongings.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move to safety and contact police on 100. Record descriptions and check whether money, cards or identity documents are missing.
Where in Greece does this happen?
Athens. It has been reported in Athens.
How common is this scam in Greece?
Occasional. Greece is generally safe, with low rates of theft and violent crime, but travellers can still face scams and overcharging. Watch for friendly strangers leading you to expensive bars, taxi fare tricks, counterfeit goods and notes, and theft in crowded places.
Who can I report it to?
Tourist police: call 171 to report taxi fare fraud. Give the number plate and receipt details. Kavala also has a Tourist Police Station on Omonia Street. Police: call 100 for police assistance. Report theft, threats, counterfeit money or fake police approaches, and ask for a report reference. Emergency services: call 112 for an emergency requiring police, ambulance or fire services. The call is free. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze missing cards and report disputed payments. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if identity documents are stolen or you need consular help. If detained, ask to speak to your consulate. Travel insurer: use the claims contact in your policy. Provide the police report reference, receipts and payment records where available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Greece?
Emergency services: police, ambulance and fire: 112, Police: 100, Tourist police: taxi fare fraud reports: 171, Ambulance: 166, Fire: 199, Coast Guard: 108.
Reviewed by @snuck