Scam in UkraineChanging money
Misleading exchange rates in Ukraine
How it works
A buying rate may look better at a glance than it really is. One example is displaying 5.059/5.62 rather than 5.59/5.62. A poor rate alone does not establish fraud.
Warning signs
- The buying rate has an easy-to-miss extra decimal digit.
- The amount offered differs from what you expected from the display.
How to avoid it
- Read the buying and selling rates carefully.
- Ask for the exact amount you will receive before handing over cash.
- Compare several exchange booths; in Kyiv, check rates over at least two blocks.
If it happens to you
Ask the cashier to explain the calculation and keep the receipt. Report a deceptive transaction if it cannot be resolved.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Avoid chasing anyone or escalating a confrontation.
- Check what is missing. If cards or your phone were stolen, contact the relevant providers and secure your accounts.
- Save receipts, messages and transaction records. Write down the time, location and a description of what happened.
- Report the scam or theft to police. Request a report or reference number for insurance or bank claims.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing, you are detained or you need help finding assistance.
- Contact your insurer and card issuer where relevant. If fake alcohol may have caused poisoning, seek urgent medical help.
Questions
What is the misleading exchange rates scam in Ukraine?
A buying rate may look better at a glance than it really is. One example is displaying 5.059/5.62 rather than 5.59/5.62. A poor rate alone does not establish fraud.
How can I spot it early?
The buying rate has an easy-to-miss extra decimal digit. The amount offered differs from what you expected from the display.
How do I avoid misleading exchange rates in Ukraine?
Read the buying and selling rates carefully. Ask for the exact amount you will receive before handing over cash. Compare several exchange booths; in Kyiv, check rates over at least two blocks.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the cashier to explain the calculation and keep the receipt. Report a deceptive transaction if it cannot be resolved.
Where in Ukraine does this happen?
Currency exchange displays. Kyiv also has poor buying rates at some exchanges open at night.
How common is this scam in Ukraine?
Occasional. Tourist scams and robberies are fairly common in Ukraine, especially in Kyiv, where pickpocketing and the wallet or found-money scam are concerns. Other risks include dishonest currency exchanges, fake police, baggage theft and fake alcohol; petty crime is described as lower in Lviv. Ukraine is at war, so this scam guide does not cover all travel risks.
Are there similar scams in Ukraine?
Yes: street currency exchange theft and worthless notes.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud at a police station. Bring any receipts, messages and transaction details, and request a report reference. Police online: report suspected official corruption online. No reporting address is provided. Your embassy or consulate: use the contact details and emergency number saved before your trip. Seek help with detention, a stolen passport or serious difficulties. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorized transactions. Station staff or baggage-storage staff: report missing stored baggage immediately. Provide the locker number, storage receipt and approximate time. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck