Scam in South AfricaChanging money
Hidden currency-exchange commissions in South Africa
How it works
The displayed exchange rate does not show a large commission. The amount you receive can be much lower than expected.
Warning signs
- A rate is displayed without a clear commission.
- The clerk will not confirm the final amount you will receive.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the final rand amount after every fee before agreeing.
- Compare the total received, not just the displayed rate.
- Consider withdrawing cash from an ATM, while refusing help from strangers.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt and ask the provider to explain the fees. Request a reversal if possible before leaving the counter.
- Get to safety. During a robbery, do not resist, negotiate or chase the attacker.
- Freeze or cancel stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, secure its accounts and mobile service.
- Save receipts, booking details, messages and photographs. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to police as soon as possible. Ask for a report reference.
- Tell the relevant airline, hotel, transport operator or rental company. Contact your embassy if your passport was stolen.
- Contact your insurer and card issuer about any claim or disputed payment. Keep copies of all reports and correspondence.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the hidden currency-exchange commissions scam in South Africa?
The displayed exchange rate does not show a large commission. The amount you receive can be much lower than expected.
How can I spot it early?
A rate is displayed without a clear commission. The clerk will not confirm the final amount you will receive.
How do I avoid hidden currency-exchange commissions in South Africa?
Ask for the final rand amount after every fee before agreeing. Compare the total received, not just the displayed rate. Consider withdrawing cash from an ATM, while refusing help from strangers.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt and ask the provider to explain the fees. Request a reversal if possible before leaving the counter.
Where in South Africa does this happen?
Banks and bureaux de change across South Africa, particularly those left of the arrivals door at O.R. Tambo International Airport
How much can it cost me?
Commissions can reduce the amount received by 10% or more.
How common is this scam in South Africa?
Common. Theft, street cons and tourist overcharging are real concerns in South Africa, though most visitors have a trouble-free stay. Watch for airport taxi touts, hidden exchange fees, unwanted ATM help and inflated souvenir prices. Pickpocketing, baggage theft, smash-and-grab theft and armed robbery also need care.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report robbery, theft or fraud promptly. Go to a police station once safe and ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or a trusted contact number to freeze or cancel a missing card and report payments you did not make. ATM operator: if your card becomes stuck, contact the helpline displayed at the ATM for assistance. Contact your card issuer as well to cancel the card. Airline or airport staff: report baggage theft as soon as you notice it. Keep baggage tags, flight details and photographs of damage. Accommodation or transport operator: report the incident to staff or the booking provider. Provide receipts, booking details and a clear account of what happened. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: use the contact details in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in South Africa?
Netcare 911 emergency assistance contact: +27 11 254-1927, ER24 emergency assistance, domestic number: 084 124.
Reviewed by @snuck