Scam in RomaniaChanging money
Hidden exchange commission in Romania
How it works
An office deducts commission that is easy to miss, sometimes printed in small letters. The final payout is lower than the headline rate suggests.
Warning signs
- Commission terms appear only in small print.
- There is no clear commission sign.
- An extra charge appears after you ask about the rate.
How to avoid it
- Look for a visible “Comision 0%” sign.
- Read the fee terms before handing over cash.
- Confirm the final amount you will receive.
- Walk away if any charge is unclear.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt and any evidence of the displayed terms. Ask for an explanation and report suspected fraud to police.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing a thief or arguing with someone who is threatening you.
- Lock missing bank cards immediately and contact the card issuer about suspicious payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, screenshots, car details and a short account of what happened.
- Report the incident at the nearest police station. Call 112 if there is an immediate emergency.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you need help during a difficult police encounter.
- Notify the taxi company, bank or insurer as relevant. Keep copies of reports and reference numbers.
Questions
What is the hidden exchange commission scam in Romania?
An office deducts commission that is easy to miss, sometimes printed in small letters. The final payout is lower than the headline rate suggests.
How can I spot it early?
Commission terms appear only in small print. There is no clear commission sign. An extra charge appears after you ask about the rate.
How do I avoid hidden exchange commission in Romania?
Look for a visible “Comision 0%” sign. Read the fee terms before handing over cash. Confirm the final amount you will receive. Walk away if any charge is unclear.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt and any evidence of the displayed terms. Ask for an explanation and report suspected fraud to police.
Where in Romania does this happen?
Exchange offices, especially in Mamaia. It has been reported in Constanța.
How common is this scam in Romania?
Occasional. Romania is generally safe for visitors, and violence against tourists is rare. The main concerns are petty theft, taxi overcharging and money-exchange tricks, especially around transport hubs.
Are there similar scams in Romania?
Yes: poor exchange rates and misleading rate boards, street money-exchange currency switch.
Who can I report it to?
Police: go to the nearest police station to report a crime. Bring the evidence and details you have. Emergency services: call 112 for an immediate police, ambulance or fire emergency. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to lock missing cards and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi company or booking service: use the booking record or official company contact details to report overcharging, meter concerns or a detour. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with missing travel documents. If a bribe demand continues, ask to speak to your embassy. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and provide receipts, police paperwork and other evidence requested under your policy.
What number do I call in an emergency in Romania?
Police, ambulance and fire: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck