Scam in PolandOn the street
Persistent flyer touts in Poland
How it works
Touts hand out flyers and brochures for services. This is mainly unwanted solicitation; taking a flyer is not described as causing a financial loss.
Warning signs
- People are handing out flyers around Centrum station.
- A promoter tries to stop you to discuss a service.
How to avoid it
- Raise your hand in a clear stop gesture.
- Say 'No, thank you' and keep walking.
- You can also say 'I can't understand Polish'.
If it happens to you
Decline further conversation and walk away.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- Call 112 if you are in immediate danger, injured or suspect your drink was spiked.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages, vehicle details and the time and location.
- Report the scam or theft to police promptly. Ask for a report reference for your insurer.
- Contact your insurer, relevant booking provider or rental company. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
Questions
What is the persistent flyer touts scam in Poland?
Touts hand out flyers and brochures for services. This is mainly unwanted solicitation; taking a flyer is not described as causing a financial loss.
How can I spot it early?
People are handing out flyers around Centrum station. A promoter tries to stop you to discuss a service.
How do I avoid persistent flyer touts in Poland?
Raise your hand in a clear stop gesture. Say 'No, thank you' and keep walking. You can also say 'I can't understand Polish'.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Decline further conversation and walk away.
Where in Poland does this happen?
Centrum subway station, near the southeastern corner of the Palace of Culture and Science It has been reported in Warsaw.
How common is this scam in Poland?
Common. Poland is generally safe for visitors, but taxi overcharging and poor exchange rates are recurring tourist traps. Pickpockets target some stations and busy transport routes, while certain nightlife scams involve large bills, spiked drinks or abuse.
Who can I report it to?
Police (Policja): report scams and theft promptly at a police station. For urgent police help, call 112. The separate police number listed is 997. Warsaw City Guard (Straż Miejska): for taxi problems in Warsaw, call 986 or +48 (22) 986 from a mobile phone. Keep the receipt and vehicle details. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised charges. Keep supporting receipts and messages. Ride-booking or tour provider: report the incident through the provider's official support channel. Include the booking record, driver or guide details, and evidence of the charge. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact channels if your passport was stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer or rental company: contact the claims or emergency assistance team. Supply the police report reference and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Poland?
Police, ambulance and fire emergencies: 112, Police (Policja): 997, Ambulance (Pogotowie): 999, Firefighters (Straż Pożarna): 998, Municipal Guards (Straż Miejska), in large cities: 986, Warsaw City Guard, mobile-phone contact for taxi problems: +48 (22) 986.
Reviewed by @snuck