Scam in MoroccoOn the street
Misleading directions to gain your trust in Morocco
How it works
Someone calls out that your destination is close or points towards the medina when you are already inside it. The aim is to get you to trust and follow them.
Warning signs
- Unasked-for directions conflict with your map.
- The person wants you to follow rather than simply pointing.
How to avoid it
- Check your map before changing direction.
- Ask someone working behind a counter.
- Do not follow an unsolicited helper.
If it happens to you
Stop following and return to a place you recognise.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or physically resist a robbery.
- If you are hurt or suspect drugging, seek medical help immediately.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down what happened, where and when.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
- Contact your insurer, booking provider or embassy as needed. Use the evidence you saved when requesting help or a refund.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/solotravel2019I loved Marrakech but i won't come back againA traveller describes an Italian-speaking shop worker gaining their confidence before giving a false dangerous-neighbourhood warning and directing them toward a supposed festival.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/travel2025How Were You Scammed While Traveling?A commenter reports that a child in Morocco deliberately gave misleading directions and then demanded money.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the misleading directions to gain your trust scam in Morocco?
Someone calls out that your destination is close or points towards the medina when you are already inside it. The aim is to get you to trust and follow them.
How can I spot it early?
Unasked-for directions conflict with your map. The person wants you to follow rather than simply pointing.
How do I avoid misleading directions to gain your trust in Morocco?
Check your map before changing direction. Ask someone working behind a counter. Do not follow an unsolicited helper.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stop following and return to a place you recognise.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Medinas and tourist areas
How common is this scam in Morocco?
Common. Morocco is generally safe, but tourists often face persistent touts, false guides and inflated prices. Marrakech needs extra care, while Fez has elaborate guide and tour scams; pickpocketing and taxi overcharging also occur in several cities.
Are there similar scams in Morocco?
Yes: closed street or closed attraction claims, directions followed by a payment demand, student or translation request leading to a shop.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud. Give the location, time and any receipts or messages. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Djemaa El-Fna, Marrakech: approach a patrol for help with harassment, intimidation or a disputed food-stall bill. Airport security at Marrakech-Menara Airport: ask for help if an airport ATM retains your card. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments or question undisclosed ATM fees. Accommodation, booking provider or tour business: report the problem through the official reception desk or booking channel. Provide the agreed price and evidence of what was delivered. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and medical records. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Morocco?
Police — listed for Marrakech: 19, Ambulance / Fire — listed for Marrakech: 15.
Reviewed by @snuck