Scam in PeruChanging money
False banknotes in Peru
How it works
You receive a counterfeit note as payment, change or part of a cash transaction.
Warning signs
- A note's colour-changing security feature does not look right.
- Someone rushes you while you inspect the money.
How to avoid it
- Check notes as soon as you receive them.
- Use the bank posters that explain banknote security features.
- Inspect cash even at expensive businesses or banks.
If it happens to you
Ask for a replacement immediately while you are still at the counter. If you discover it later, ask a bank or the police for advice rather than passing it to someone else.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone is threatening you, prioritise your safety over belongings.
- For immediate danger or injury, call emergency services. Avoid chasing thieves or confronting armed people.
- Block stolen cards and contact your bank about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone and secure affected accounts.
- Save receipts, booking messages and transaction details. Write down the time, location and any vehicle details you safely remember.
- Report the incident to police and ask how to obtain a report copy. Keep the report for insurance or a payment dispute.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement-document advice.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government adviceTravel advice and advisories for PeruCanadian travel advice warns that counterfeit soles and US dollars circulate widely, including through local stores, casinos and banks.Read on Government advice
- Travel blog2012Cuzco taxi fake money switcheroo scamThe author recounts a Cusco taxi driver claiming a genuine coin was counterfeit while using the dispute to withhold change.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the false banknotes scam in Peru?
You receive a counterfeit note as payment, change or part of a cash transaction.
How can I spot it early?
A note's colour-changing security feature does not look right. Someone rushes you while you inspect the money.
How do I avoid false banknotes in Peru?
Check notes as soon as you receive them. Use the bank posters that explain banknote security features. Inspect cash even at expensive businesses or banks.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for a replacement immediately while you are still at the counter. If you discover it later, ask a bank or the police for advice rather than passing it to someone else.
Where in Peru does this happen?
Anywhere you receive cash, including upscale businesses and, unusually, banks.
How common is this scam in Peru?
Occasional. Petty theft is a concern in Peru, and armed robberies of tourists are described as fairly common. Taxi robberies, inflated fares, misleading touts and false money are the main risks to prepare for. Choose transport carefully, check prices before paying and keep valuables out of sight.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: dial 911 for an emergency. The older number 105 can also connect you with police. Tourist police: ask tourist police for help in person. They are described as wearing white shirts and normally speaking English. They are present in downtown Arequipa. Police: report theft, robbery or fraud and request a report. To obtain a copy, the stated process requires paying S/3 at Banco de la Nación during working days. Serenazgo: in Lima and some larger cities, ask this local police service for help. It does not provide tourist-focused services. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block cards, report unauthorised transactions and ask about a dispute. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Use its official contact details. Travel insurer: contact the claims or emergency-assistance team. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses. Transport company, booking seller or shop: raise a complaint through the business's official contact channel. Provide your receipt, booking details and the price or service you agreed.
What number do I call in an emergency in Peru?
All emergency services: 911, Police, older number: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck