Scam in RomaniaFake officials
Maradonist fake-police con in Romania
How it works
A street money changer keeps you talking until partners arrive pretending to be police. They try to make you hand over your wallet and identity papers.
Warning signs
- People claiming to be police appear during a street exchange.
- They demand your wallet or papers.
How to avoid it
- Avoid all street money-exchange offers.
- Keep your wallet and documents secure.
- Ask to resolve any claimed offence at a police station.
If it happens to you
Avoid a physical struggle. Move to safety, report the incident to police and lock any missing cards.
- 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 maradonist fake-police con scam in Romania?
A street money changer keeps you talking until partners arrive pretending to be police. They try to make you hand over your wallet and identity papers.
How can I spot it early?
People claiming to be police appear during a street exchange. They demand your wallet or papers.
How do I avoid maradonist fake-police con in Romania?
Avoid all street money-exchange offers. Keep your wallet and documents secure. Ask to resolve any claimed offence at a police station.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Avoid a physical struggle. Move to safety, report the incident to police and lock any missing cards.
Where in Romania does this happen?
Street money-exchange encounters.
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: police bribe demands.
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