Scam in Czech RepublicShopping
Foreign notes passed off as shop change in Czech Republic
How it works
A shop gives similar-looking Belarusian rubles as change instead of Czech koruna. This trick is described as less common than it once was.
Warning signs
- The change looks unfamiliar.
- The notes do not match Czech koruna notes.
How to avoid it
- Check each note before leaving the counter.
- Count your change while the transaction is still clear.
- Keep the receipt.
If it happens to you
Ask for the correct change immediately. If the shop refuses, keep the receipt and disputed notes and report the incident.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or confront a group.
- If you are threatened or injured, call 112. For police, call 158; for a medical emergency, call 155.
- Block stolen cards through your bank or card issuer. Secure affected accounts.
- Save receipts, booking records and screenshots. Write down the time, place and vehicle or business details.
- Report the incident to police and ask for a report reference. For a bad currency exchange, return with the receipt within 3 hours to request a refund.
- Contact your insurer, rental company or embassy as relevant. Ask your card issuer about disputed payments.
Questions
What is the foreign notes passed off as shop change scam in Czech Republic?
A shop gives similar-looking Belarusian rubles as change instead of Czech koruna. This trick is described as less common than it once was.
How can I spot it early?
The change looks unfamiliar. The notes do not match Czech koruna notes.
How do I avoid foreign notes passed off as shop change in Czech Republic?
Check each note before leaving the counter. Count your change while the transaction is still clear. Keep the receipt.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for the correct change immediately. If the shop refuses, keep the receipt and disputed notes and report the incident.
Where in Czech Republic does this happen?
Some smaller shops. It has been reported in Prague.
How common is this scam in Czech Republic?
Occasional. The Czech Republic is generally safe, but scams and pickpocketing are common in busy tourist areas, especially in high season. Watch for taxi overcharging, misleading exchange rates, worthless foreign money and theft in crowds. Most detailed warnings concern Prague, with pickpocket warnings also covering parts of Brno.
Are there similar scams in Czech Republic?
Yes: overpriced tourist souvenirs.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 158 for police assistance or 112 in an emergency. For a theft or fraud report, provide the location, time, receipts and any vehicle or business details. City police (městská policie): if a Prague exchange office refuses a refund requested within 3 hours, politely ask a nearby city police officer to accompany you and help. Czech National Bank: file a complaint if an exchange office refuses the refund. Keep your receipt and a record of the refusal. Taxi company: report the disputed fare with the receipt, licence plate, taxi licence number and driver's name, if available. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to block missing cards, report unauthorised transactions and ask about payment disputes. Airport security staff: report missing items immediately at the screening area. Give the screening lane, time and item description. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and keep the police report, receipts and evidence of your loss. Your embassy or consulate: contact it through official channels if your passport is stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in Czech Republic?
General emergency: 112, Police: 158, Medical emergency: 155, Fire brigade: 150.
Reviewed by @snuck