Scam in IranTheft
Mugging in Iran
How it works
Muggings occur in Iran, although the country is described as relatively low-crime. No particular method or location is identified.
Warning signs
- Someone threatens you or blocks your way while demanding belongings.
How to avoid it
- Keep valuables out of sight.
- Use caution when walking alone late at night.
- Leave valuables you do not need in a secure hotel safe.
If it happens to you
Put your safety first. Do not fight over belongings. Move to safety and call police on 110.
- Get somewhere safe. If someone threatens you, put your safety ahead of money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, where it happened and any details you remember. Keep receipts, messages and booking records.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were stolen, contact the issuer or mobile provider promptly to secure them.
- Report fraud, theft or threats to police. Call 110 for help or visit a police station. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was taken. Tell your travel insurer and keep copies of reports and expenses.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the mugging scam in Iran?
Muggings occur in Iran, although the country is described as relatively low-crime. No particular method or location is identified.
How can I spot it early?
Someone threatens you or blocks your way while demanding belongings.
How do I avoid mugging in Iran?
Keep valuables out of sight. Use caution when walking alone late at night. Leave valuables you do not need in a secure hotel safe.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Put your safety first. Do not fight over belongings. Move to safety and call police on 110.
How common is this scam in Iran?
Occasional. Iran is described as a relatively low-crime country, but taxi overcharging, counterfeit money, fake police and theft can affect visitors. Take extra care when arranging fares, exchanging cash or moving through crowded bazaars, buses and places of worship. The frequency of most scams is not clear.
Are there similar scams in Iran?
Yes: pickpocketing in crowds.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 110 or visit a police station. English-speaking operators are available on 110. A police station is called a kalantari. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official contact channel to report stolen cards, secure the account and ask about any disputed transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your own country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and a record of the loss. Ride-hailing support: for a Snapp trip, contact its support line for help with driver communication. English-speaking support is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Iran?
Police: 110, Ambulance and emergency medical services: 115, Fire and rescue: 125, Iranian Red Crescent rescue and relief hotline: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck