Scam in MoroccoShopping
Paper hidden inside leather shoes in Morocco
How it works
Poor-quality shoes have paper inside the sole. A seller's bending demonstration may hide the weakness.
Warning signs
- The sole feels or sounds like bending paper.
- The seller relies on a quick demonstration instead of letting you inspect the shoes.
How to avoid it
- Feel and bend the shoes yourself.
- Compare quality in several shops.
- Do not pay a good-quality price for poorly made shoes.
If it happens to you
Ask the seller for a refund or replacement if it is safe to return.
- 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.
Questions
What is the paper hidden inside leather shoes scam in Morocco?
Poor-quality shoes have paper inside the sole. A seller's bending demonstration may hide the weakness.
How can I spot it early?
The sole feels or sounds like bending paper. The seller relies on a quick demonstration instead of letting you inspect the shoes.
How do I avoid paper hidden inside leather shoes in Morocco?
Feel and bend the shoes yourself. Compare quality in several shops. Do not pay a good-quality price for poorly made shoes.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the seller for a refund or replacement if it is safe to return.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Shoe shops and market stalls It has been reported in Marrakech.
How much can it cost me?
The guide gives maximum comparison prices of 40 dirham for poor-quality shoes and 90 dirham for a good pair.
How common is this scam in Morocco?
Very 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: free gift followed by a theft accusation, false government-regulated shop claims, counterfeit branded goods.
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