Scam in JordanAirport and border
Goods confiscated at Aqaba airport security in Jordan
How it works
Travellers are warned that many types of purchased goods may be confiscated at departure security. The exact goods and circumstances are not specified.
Warning signs
- Security staff say you must surrender goods bought during your visit.
How to avoid it
- Check what you can take through departure security before buying expensive goods.
- Keep purchase receipts.
- Ask for a clear explanation of any confiscation.
If it happens to you
Ask for a supervisor and a written record if possible. Avoid confrontation at the checkpoint.
- Get to a safe, public place. Avoid physical confrontation. Call 911 if you are threatened or in immediate danger.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, vehicle details and amount paid.
- Save receipts, screenshots, messages and booking records. Photograph relevant details only when safe.
- Contact your card issuer if your card was stolen or used without permission. Ask about freezing the card and disputing charges.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance.
- Contact the booking service, accommodation or transport platform involved. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the goods confiscated at Aqaba airport security scam in Jordan?
Travellers are warned that many types of purchased goods may be confiscated at departure security. The exact goods and circumstances are not specified.
How can I spot it early?
Security staff say you must surrender goods bought during your visit.
How do I avoid goods confiscated at Aqaba airport security in Jordan?
Check what you can take through departure security before buying expensive goods. Keep purchase receipts. Ask for a clear explanation of any confiscation.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for a supervisor and a written record if possible. Avoid confrontation at the checkpoint.
Where in Jordan does this happen?
Departure security checks at King Hussein International Airport. It has been reported in Aqaba.
How common is this scam in Jordan?
Occasional. Jordan is relatively safe, but tourist overcharging is common when prices are not agreed in advance. The main problems involve taxis, commission-driven recommendations and misleading offers; threats and serious cheating are rare.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 911 for police, paramedics or firefighting in an emergency. Police: report theft, fraud or threats. Bring receipts, screenshots, vehicle details and a written account. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Petra: seek help at the tourist police kiosk at Petra. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the contact number on your card to report theft or unauthorised charges and ask about payment disputes. Ride-hailing or booking service: use the support channel linked to your trip or booking. Include the agreed price, payment record and details of any extra demand. Airport security supervisor: for disputed confiscations at Aqaba airport, calmly request a supervisor, an explanation and a written record where possible. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is lost or stolen, or you need help after a serious incident.
What number do I call in an emergency in Jordan?
Central emergency line: police, paramedics and firefighting: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck