Scam in ColombiaChanging money
Money-changing sleight of hand in Colombia
How it works
A street changer offers a very good rate but hands over slightly too little money. When you complain, they add the missing amount while secretly removing larger notes from the bottom of the bundle.
Warning signs
- A street changer offers an unusually good exchange rate.
- The first count is short.
- The changer handles the bundle again after you count it.
How to avoid it
- Use a bank or established exchange bureau.
- Avoid street exchange offers.
- Count the full amount again after anyone else handles it.
If it happens to you
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone has a weapon or threatens violence, do not resist.
- If a card or phone was stolen, contact your card issuer and mobile provider promptly. Freeze affected cards and secure your accounts.
- Write down what happened while you remember it. Save receipts, booking details, vehicle information and relevant messages.
- Report the incident to police. For a taxi problem in Bogotá, call 123 and the taxi company.
- Contact your insurer and ask what evidence they need. Tell your card issuer about any disputed or forced transactions.
- If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement-document guidance.
Questions
What is the money-changing sleight of hand scam in Colombia?
A street changer offers a very good rate but hands over slightly too little money. When you complain, they add the missing amount while secretly removing larger notes from the bottom of the bundle.
How can I spot it early?
A street changer offers an unusually good exchange rate. The first count is short. The changer handles the bundle again after you count it.
How do I avoid money-changing sleight of hand in Colombia?
Use a bank or established exchange bureau. Avoid street exchange offers. Count the full amount again after anyone else handles it.
Where in Colombia does this happen?
Street money changers It has been reported in Cartagena.
How common is this scam in Colombia?
Occasional. Travellers can face taxi overcharging, pushy touts, dishonest money changers and theft in Colombia. Cartagena has several tourist-focused tricks, while Bogotá has warnings about pickpockets and taxi robberies. The risk varies by area and time of day, and some incidents involve threats or violence.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or fraud once you are safe. For a taxi problem in Bogotá, call 123. Ask how to obtain a record of your report. Taxi company: for a taxi complaint in Bogotá, also contact the company with which the taxi is registered. Provide the booking details and vehicle registration if available. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official app or contact number to freeze a stolen card and report disputed or forced withdrawals. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep receipts and any police report. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Mobile provider: report a stolen phone and ask the provider to block the SIM.
What number do I call in an emergency in Colombia?
Police: taxi problems and complaints in Bogotá: 123.
Reviewed by @snuck