Scam in North MacedoniaTheft
Pickpocketing during street approaches in North Macedonia
How it works
Pickpockets may take unsecured valuables. In Skopje, some people who approach visitors to beg may also engage in pickpocketing. An approach alone does not mean someone intends to steal.
Warning signs
- Someone approaches while your phone, wallet or open bag is within easy reach.
- An interaction draws your attention away from your belongings.
How to avoid it
- Keep bags closed and carry valuables where you can see or feel them.
- Keep your phone and wallet secure during street conversations.
- Store spare cash and valuables in your accommodation's safe.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Freeze stolen cards, secure affected accounts and report the theft to police.
- Move to a safe public place. Avoid an argument or chasing someone.
- Check what was taken or charged. Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about suspicious payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages and photographs. Write down the time, place and vehicle or seller details.
- Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a written report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing, your embassy or consulate.
- Secure affected accounts and keep copies of all reports and correspondence.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing during street approaches scam in North Macedonia?
Pickpockets may take unsecured valuables. In Skopje, some people who approach visitors to beg may also engage in pickpocketing. An approach alone does not mean someone intends to steal.
How can I spot it early?
Someone approaches while your phone, wallet or open bag is within easy reach. An interaction draws your attention away from your belongings.
How do I avoid pickpocketing during street approaches in North Macedonia?
Keep bags closed and carry valuables where you can see or feel them. Keep your phone and wallet secure during street conversations. Store spare cash and valuables in your accommodation's safe.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Freeze stolen cards, secure affected accounts and report the theft to police.
Where in North Macedonia does this happen?
Country-wide, with a specific warning about approaches around major tourist sites in Skopje. It has been reported in Skopje.
How common is this scam in North Macedonia?
Occasional. North Macedonia is generally safe, but visitors should watch for taxi overcharging, persistent ride touts and pickpockets. Shopping risks include overpriced goods and misleading pearl sales, especially around Lake Ohrid.
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 or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments and ask about a payment dispute. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, use its support channel and provide the trip record, agreed fare and amount charged. Seller or business: request a refund or correction. Keep the receipt and a written record of what was promised. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep receipts, police reports and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck