Scam in TunisiaAirport and border
Foreign currency returned short after a customs count in Tunisia
How it works
Customs agents may ask how much foreign currency you have and take you to a private office to count it. Travellers have reported receiving substantially less money back than they handed over.
Warning signs
- You are asked to hand over foreign cash for counting.
- The returned amount is not checked in front of you.
How to avoid it
- Know how much foreign cash you are carrying.
- Watch the count where possible.
- Count all returned money before leaving.
If it happens to you
Point out a discrepancy immediately and ask for another count. Request a supervisor if it remains unresolved and it is safe to do so.
- Move to a safe, public place. Avoid a confrontation if someone becomes aggressive.
- Freeze missing or compromised cards immediately through your bank or card issuer.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, amount and any vehicle or business details.
- Keep receipts, bills, booking records and other evidence. Take photos only when safe.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Tell hotel management or airport staff when relevant, and ask for a written record.
- Contact your insurer about a claim. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
Questions
What is the foreign currency returned short after a customs count scam in Tunisia?
Customs agents may ask how much foreign currency you have and take you to a private office to count it. Travellers have reported receiving substantially less money back than they handed over.
How can I spot it early?
You are asked to hand over foreign cash for counting. The returned amount is not checked in front of you.
How do I avoid foreign currency returned short after a customs count in Tunisia?
Know how much foreign cash you are carrying. Watch the count where possible. Count all returned money before leaving.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Point out a discrepancy immediately and ask for another count. Request a supervisor if it remains unresolved and it is safe to do so.
Where in Tunisia does this happen?
Airport customs checks after check-in
How common is this scam in Tunisia?
Occasional. Persistent sellers, unwanted guides and inflated bills are recurring problems for visitors to Tunisia. Theft is widely reported, including from hotel rooms, room safes and airports. Taxi overcharging and pressure to visit shops also need care.
Are there similar scams in Tunisia?
Yes: departure dinar surrender without a receipt.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or suspected fraud. Bring a clear account and any receipts or identifying details. Ask for a written report or reference. Bank or card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Hotel management: report missing room valuables promptly. Ask management to document the incident and help you contact police. Airport staff: ask for immediate help with airport theft or a driver refusing to return luggage. Request a supervisor for a disputed official cash count. Embassy or consulate: use your government's official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need help with replacement travel documents. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck