Scam in LaosChanging money
Money-exchange rate switch in Laos
How it works
The changer uses a cash-advance rate rather than the advertised exchange rate. The final US-dollar charge is higher than expected. Complaints may not allow you to cancel the transaction.
Warning signs
- The final calculation differs from the displayed rate.
- The seller mentions a cash advance during a simple exchange.
- You cannot get a clear final amount before proceeding.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the exact amount you will pay and receive.
- Check the calculation before handing over money or approving a charge.
- Compare rates at banks and other exchange counters.
- Count your cash before leaving.
If it happens to you
Challenge the difference immediately and keep the receipt. If a card was charged incorrectly, contact your card issuer.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- If you are injured or feel unwell after suspect alcohol, seek urgent medical help.
- Freeze stolen or affected cards. Contact your card issuer about unauthorised charges or an ATM debit without cash.
- Save receipts, tickets, messages and screenshots. Write down the time, location, amount and what happened.
- Report the incident to police when safe. Ask for a written report, especially if you need an insurance claim. Your accommodation may help with language.
- Contact your insurer and, for a stolen passport, detention or serious trouble, your embassy or consulate. Ask the seller or booking provider for a refund where appropriate.
Questions
What is the money-exchange rate switch scam in Laos?
The changer uses a cash-advance rate rather than the advertised exchange rate. The final US-dollar charge is higher than expected. Complaints may not allow you to cancel the transaction.
How can I spot it early?
The final calculation differs from the displayed rate. The seller mentions a cash advance during a simple exchange. You cannot get a clear final amount before proceeding.
How do I avoid money-exchange rate switch in Laos?
Ask for the exact amount you will pay and receive. Check the calculation before handing over money or approving a charge. Compare rates at banks and other exchange counters. Count your cash before leaving.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Challenge the difference immediately and keep the receipt. If a card was charged incorrectly, contact your card issuer.
Where in Laos does this happen?
Money changers on Sisavangvong Road and in permanent markets farther east It has been reported in Luang Prabang.
How common is this scam in Laos?
Occasional. Laos is generally a low-crime country, but petty theft and tourist overcharging remain concerns. Watch for inflated transport fares, misleading ticket sellers, money-exchange tricks and counterfeit goods. Prices below are examples from different years, so check the full amount before paying.
Are there similar scams in Laos?
Yes: poor exchange rates and baht payment overcharging.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, threats or fraud in person when safe. Ask for a written record. Assistance may be limited, and language barriers can make reporting harder. Nearby police boxes in Vientiane: after a bag snatch, shout immediately to attract attention and alert nearby police. Card issuer and ATM bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze a card or dispute a transaction. For missing ATM cash, provide the location, time, amount and receipt. Hotel, transport operator or booking provider: present the receipt and booking details. Explain the difference between what was promised and delivered, and request a correction or refund. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's official consular service for a stolen passport, detention or serious difficulties. Use contact details from its official website. Travel insurer: report the loss promptly through its claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, evidence of ownership and any police report.
What number do I call in an emergency in Laos?
Luang Prabang Provincial Hospital, open 24/7: +85671254027.
Reviewed by @snuck