Scam in SyriaOn the street
Persistent begging and demands for money in Syria
How it works
Some people begging may follow visitors and keep demanding money until they pay. There are also reports of tourists being attacked for money or food. Begging is common in some places, but not every person asking for help is running a scam.
Warning signs
- Someone follows you after you decline.
- A request becomes a demand.
- The person becomes aggressive or moves to block your way.
How to avoid it
- Keep any refusal brief and keep moving.
- Avoid taking out your wallet under pressure.
- Keep money secure in front pockets.
- Move towards a busy, staffed place if someone follows you.
If it happens to you
Put your safety first. Do not argue or fight over money. Seek help in a staffed public place and report threats or an attack to police.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone threatens you, avoid arguing or fighting over money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount paid and any vehicle or business details. Save receipts and messages.
- If a card or phone is missing, contact the card issuer to freeze cards and secure affected accounts.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to local police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need help finding local assistance.
- Tell your insurer promptly and keep copies of reports, receipts and other evidence needed for a claim.
Questions
What is the persistent begging and demands for money scam in Syria?
Some people begging may follow visitors and keep demanding money until they pay. There are also reports of tourists being attacked for money or food. Begging is common in some places, but not every person asking for help is running a scam.
How can I spot it early?
Someone follows you after you decline. A request becomes a demand. The person becomes aggressive or moves to block your way.
How do I avoid persistent begging and demands for money in Syria?
Keep any refusal brief and keep moving. Avoid taking out your wallet under pressure. Keep money secure in front pockets. Move towards a busy, staffed place if someone follows you.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Put your safety first. Do not argue or fight over money. Seek help in a staffed public place and report threats or an attack to police.
Where in Syria does this happen?
Outside tourist attractions, mosques and churches in some parts of Syria.
How common is this scam in Syria?
Occasional. Taxi overcharging is a common concern in Syria, especially when drivers bargain with foreign visitors instead of using the meter. Other reported problems include fake taxis at Damascus bus terminals, begging tricks, poor exchange rates and tourist shopping markups. Conflict and political tensions pose separate, serious risks; this scam guide does not establish that an area is safe to visit.
Are there similar scams in Syria?
Yes: fake begging appeals.
Who can I report it to?
Local police: report theft, threats, assault or suspected fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any evidence. No local reporting number or specialist police unit is provided. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a missing card and report any unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost passport or serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service listed in your policy. Keep receipts and any police report. Taxi app or booking provider: if the journey was booked through a service, report the fare dispute through its official support channel and save the booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck