Scam in MaltaOther tricks
Parking donations presented as required fees in Malta
How it works
An attendant asks for a tip called a donation. They may insist that everyone pays and make it sound compulsory. Most public parking lots are free, and these tips are voluntary. Paid parking areas should have a sign.
Warning signs
- An attendant says a donation is required because everyone pays.
- There is no sign showing that parking costs money.
- The attendant becomes pushy or rude when you hesitate.
How to avoid it
- Check for a paid-parking sign before paying.
- Treat an attendant's donation request as a voluntary tip.
- Decline and walk away if you do not want to tip.
- Avoid arguing if the attendant shouts.
If it happens to you
If you have not paid, you can decline and leave. If you already paid, ask calmly for the money back if you feel safe. Leave and report any threats to police.
- Move somewhere safe. Avoid chasing anyone or continuing an argument.
- Write down what happened, where it happened and the time. Save receipts, messages and booking details.
- If a card was stolen or used without permission, freeze it and contact the card issuer immediately.
- Report fraud, theft or threats to police. Ask for a report reference or copy.
- Contact your insurer if you need to make a claim. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
- Keep copies of all reports and follow up with the payment provider or business about any disputed charge.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- NewsParking attendants drive motorists round the bendA British holidaymaker reported being asked for €2 without a receipt in Mdina, while reporters encountered attendants presenting voluntary parking donations as compulsory.Read on News
- Redditr/malta2022Car Park Attendants are a scam and a waste of air. Change my mind.Commenters describe attendants forcing tips for public parking and recommend reporting demands to Transport Malta.Read on Reddit
- NewsPressure mounts to get rid of car park attendantsMotorists reported intimidation and unofficial fixed parking charges despite signs stating that gratuities were voluntary.Read on News
Questions
What is the parking donations presented as required fees scam in Malta?
An attendant asks for a tip called a donation. They may insist that everyone pays and make it sound compulsory. Most public parking lots are free, and these tips are voluntary. Paid parking areas should have a sign.
How can I spot it early?
An attendant says a donation is required because everyone pays. There is no sign showing that parking costs money. The attendant becomes pushy or rude when you hesitate.
How do I avoid parking donations presented as required fees in Malta?
Check for a paid-parking sign before paying. Treat an attendant's donation request as a voluntary tip. Decline and walk away if you do not want to tip. Avoid arguing if the attendant shouts.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If you have not paid, you can decline and leave. If you already paid, ask calmly for the money back if you feel safe. Leave and report any threats to police.
Where in Malta does this happen?
Public parking lots across Malta
How common is this scam in Malta?
Common. Malta is generally safe, but parking attendants may pressure visitors to pay voluntary tips as if they were required fees. Petty crime is a concern in Sliema and St. Julian's, and extra care is advised in Paceville at night.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, suspected fraud or threats. Give the location, time, description and any evidence. Ask for a report reference or copy. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or a trusted contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised payments. Ask about disputing the charge. Travel insurer: contact the claims service using your policy details. Keep receipts, police records and evidence of the loss. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen or you need help replacing travel documents. Transport operator or booking provider: for a fare or booking dispute, use the contact details on your receipt or booking confirmation. Include the agreed price and what you were charged.
Reviewed by @snuck