Scam in RussiaTheft
Pickpocketing in crowds in Russia
How it works
Thieves take money, phones or documents while people are crowded together or distracted. Pushing at train doors can make it harder to notice someone reaching into a pocket or bag.
Warning signs
- People push closely around you at train doors.
- Someone stays unusually close to your pockets or bag.
- Your bag is open or behind you in a crowd.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag closed and in front of you.
- Keep phones and wallets out of back pockets.
- Separate your daily spending money from larger amounts.
- Keep hold of your belongings while boarding and leaving trains.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Freeze any stolen payment cards.
- Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or physically resist an armed robber.
- If you are injured or suspect drink spiking, seek urgent medical help and stay with someone you trust.
- Freeze stolen or compromised payment cards. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, bills, booking records and messages. Write down the time, place and any vehicle or officer details.
- Report the incident to police and ask for a report or reference. In Moscow, Tourist Police can help visitors in foreign languages.
- Contact your insurer and, if documents were stolen or you need support, your embassy or consulate. Keep copies of reports and expenses.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing in crowds scam in Russia?
Thieves take money, phones or documents while people are crowded together or distracted. Pushing at train doors can make it harder to notice someone reaching into a pocket or bag.
How can I spot it early?
People push closely around you at train doors. Someone stays unusually close to your pockets or bag. Your bag is open or behind you in a crowd.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in crowds in Russia?
Keep your bag closed and in front of you. Keep phones and wallets out of back pockets. Separate your daily spending money from larger amounts. Keep hold of your belongings while boarding and leaving trains.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft. Freeze any stolen payment cards.
Where in Russia does this happen?
Subways, underground walkways, overnight trains, stations, airports, markets, tourist attractions and restaurants. In Saint Petersburg, take special care at busy Metro doors, Gostinyy Dvor Metro Station, Nevsky Prospekt and nearby markets.
How common is this scam in Russia?
Common. Tourists can face pickpocketing, taxi overcharging, money exchange tricks and nightlife scams in Russia. Crowded transport, unofficial taxis and unfamiliar bars need extra care, while some scams involve fake inspectors or demands for bribes.
Are there similar scams in Russia?
Yes: camera theft and cut bag straps, street robbery and mugging.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, fraud or threats through an official police channel. Give the location, time and any evidence. Ask for a written record or reference. Moscow Tourist Police: ask Tourist Police officers for help in Moscow. They can speak foreign languages and assist visitors. Card issuer: use the issuer's official app or contact details to freeze a compromised card and report unauthorized transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate for stolen travel documents, help after a serious crime or guidance if pressured by officials. Taxi booking service: report a fare dispute or driver incident through the service used to book the ride. Include the trip record, vehicle details and receipt. Transport staff: report a suspected fake ticket inspector to the driver or transport operator. Record the route and time. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck