Scam in UzbekistanTheft
Pickpocketing in bazaars in Uzbekistan
How it works
A thief takes an accessible wallet or purse while your attention is elsewhere.
Warning signs
- Your wallet is visible or easy to reach.
- Your bag is open or hanging behind you.
How to avoid it
- Keep your wallet in a front pocket.
- Carry your bag closed and in front of you.
- Keep its strap securely around your arm or across your body.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing, block stolen cards and report the theft.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- If you are in immediate danger, call 112. For police, call 102.
- Contact your card issuer immediately if a card or its details are missing. Block the card and ask about disputed payments.
- Save receipts, booking screens, messages and payment records. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for insurance.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is lost or stolen, your embassy or consulate.
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 in bazaars scam in Uzbekistan?
A thief takes an accessible wallet or purse while your attention is elsewhere.
How can I spot it early?
Your wallet is visible or easy to reach. Your bag is open or hanging behind you.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in bazaars in Uzbekistan?
Keep your wallet in a front pocket. Carry your bag closed and in front of you. Keep its strap securely around your arm or across your body. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing, block stolen cards and report the theft.
Where in Uzbekistan does this happen?
Bazaars
How common is this scam in Uzbekistan?
Occasional. Uzbekistan is generally safe for visitors, but tourists can face inflated taxi fares, shortchanging and poor exchange deals. Other risks include the found-cash scam, pickpockets in bazaars and strangers offering to show you the nightlife.
Are there similar scams in Uzbekistan?
Yes: jewellery snatching.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 102 for police assistance. Report theft, fraud or threats and ask for a written record or reference. Unified emergency service: call 112 in an urgent situation. The service operates 24 hours a day. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block a card and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, use its support channel and attach the booking details and fare evidence. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost passport or a serious incident. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact on your policy. Keep receipts, payment evidence and any police report. Accommodation staff: ask reception for help explaining an incident, finding police assistance or choosing a medical provider.
What number do I call in an emergency in Uzbekistan?
Unified emergency service, available 24/7: 112, Police: 102, Medical emergency: 103, Fire: 101.
Reviewed by @snuck