Scam in LesothoOn the street
Friendly conversation leading to requests for money in Lesotho
How it works
A friendly conversation gradually turns into an indirect request for money. A request alone does not prove fraud, but you may feel pressure to give because you have already been chatting.
Warning signs
- The conversation shifts from greetings to money.
- You feel pressured to give after a friendly exchange.
How to avoid it
- Return greetings politely without agreeing to give money.
- Decline calmly and end the conversation if pressure continues.
- If you want to donate, give through a registered charity.
If it happens to you
Stop giving money if you feel pressured. Stay calm, say goodbye and leave.
- Move to a safe place. If someone threatens you, do not resist over money, belongings or a vehicle.
- Stop further payments and contact your card issuer promptly if a card or card details may be compromised.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount and any useful descriptions. Save receipts and messages.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or written record if available.
- Contact your insurer and any relevant transport or booking provider. Keep copies of your reports and expenses.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need help finding official assistance.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the friendly conversation leading to requests for money scam in Lesotho?
A friendly conversation gradually turns into an indirect request for money. A request alone does not prove fraud, but you may feel pressure to give because you have already been chatting.
How can I spot it early?
The conversation shifts from greetings to money. You feel pressured to give after a friendly exchange.
How do I avoid friendly conversation leading to requests for money in Lesotho?
Return greetings politely without agreeing to give money. Decline calmly and end the conversation if pressure continues. If you want to donate, give through a registered charity.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stop giving money if you feel pressured. Stay calm, say goodbye and leave.
Where in Lesotho does this happen?
Country-wide
How common is this scam in Lesotho?
Occasional. The main concerns described in Lesotho are friendly conversations that lead to requests for money, and carjacking at night. There is not enough information to say how common scams are, but extra care is needed when moving around Maseru after dark.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, carjacking, threats or suspected fraud at a police station once you are safe. Bring any evidence and ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or a trusted contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised payments. Airline or airport staff: if checked luggage is missing, speak to staff before leaving the airport and keep your baggage tag. A lost luggage reporting system is not described as available. Vehicle owner or rental company: after a carjacking, contact the owner or rental company once you are safe. Share the police report details when available. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep receipts, evidence and police records. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if you lose your passport or need consular assistance.
Reviewed by @snuck