Scam in IranTheft
Pickpocketing in crowds in Iran
How it works
A thief takes money or belongings from a pocket or bag while you are in a crowd. Busy transport and places of worship need particular care.
Warning signs
- Crowds press closely around your bag or pockets.
- Your bag is open or your phone and wallet are easy to reach.
How to avoid it
- Keep bags closed and in front of you in crowds.
- Keep your phone and wallet out of exposed pockets.
- Carry only the cash and valuables you need that day.
- Check your belongings after boarding or leaving crowded transport.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Contact your card issuer if cards were taken.
- Get somewhere safe. If someone threatens you, put your safety ahead of money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, where it happened and any details you remember. Keep receipts, messages and booking records.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were stolen, contact the issuer or mobile provider promptly to secure them.
- Report fraud, theft or threats to police. Call 110 for help or visit a police station. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was taken. Tell your travel insurer and keep copies of reports and expenses.
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 crowds scam in Iran?
A thief takes money or belongings from a pocket or bag while you are in a crowd. Busy transport and places of worship need particular care.
How can I spot it early?
Crowds press closely around your bag or pockets. Your bag is open or your phone and wallet are easy to reach.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowds in Iran?
Keep bags closed and in front of you in crowds. Keep your phone and wallet out of exposed pockets. Carry only the cash and valuables you need that day. Check your belongings after boarding or leaving crowded transport.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Contact your card issuer if cards were taken.
Where in Iran does this happen?
Crowded bazaars, buses and other busy areas across Iran; places of worship, including Mashhad's Holy Shrine
How common is this scam in Iran?
Occasional. Iran is described as a relatively low-crime country, but taxi overcharging, counterfeit money, fake police and theft can affect visitors. Take extra care when arranging fares, exchanging cash or moving through crowded bazaars, buses and places of worship. The frequency of most scams is not clear.
Are there similar scams in Iran?
Yes: mugging.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 110 or visit a police station. English-speaking operators are available on 110. A police station is called a kalantari. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official contact channel to report stolen cards, secure the account and ask about any disputed transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your own country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and a record of the loss. Ride-hailing support: for a Snapp trip, contact its support line for help with driver communication. English-speaking support is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Iran?
Police: 110, Ambulance and emergency medical services: 115, Fire and rescue: 125, Iranian Red Crescent rescue and relief hotline: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck