Pickpocketing in markets and on public transport in Mongolia

Narantuul Market, the railway station, crowded buses and bus stops, especially those near the State Department Store.

How it works

Thieves take money, phones or other valuables while people are crowded together or distracted. Pickpocketing also occurs elsewhere in Mongolia.

Warning signs

Crowds press closely around you.
Your bag or pockets are easy for someone else to reach.
You are distracted while boarding, shopping or paying.

How to avoid it

Carry valuables in a money belt or a secure inner pocket.
Keep bags closed and in front of you in crowds.
Take only a small amount of cash to Narantuul Market.
Leave valuables you do not need securely at your accommodation.

If it happens to you

Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Report the theft at the district police station and tell your embassy. Block any stolen cards.

Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, secure your banking and other important accounts.
Write down what happened. Save receipts, booking records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
Report theft or assault at the district police station. Ask for a copy or reference for your report.
Tell your embassy if you were attacked, lost your passport or need help. Contact your insurer and the relevant payment or booking provider.

Where it happensNarantuul Market, the railway station, crowded buses and bus stops, especially those near the State Department Store.Ulaanbaatar

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in MongoliaTaxi fare overcharging: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the pickpocketing in markets and on public transport scam in Mongolia?

Thieves take money, phones or other valuables while people are crowded together or distracted. Pickpocketing also occurs elsewhere in Mongolia.

How can I spot it early?

Crowds press closely around you. Your bag or pockets are easy for someone else to reach. You are distracted while boarding, shopping or paying.

How do I avoid pickpocketing in markets and on public transport in Mongolia?

Carry valuables in a money belt or a secure inner pocket. Keep bags closed and in front of you in crowds. Take only a small amount of cash to Narantuul Market. Leave valuables you do not need securely at your accommodation.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Move somewhere safe and check what is missing. Report the theft at the district police station and tell your embassy. Block any stolen cards.

Where in Mongolia does this happen?

Narantuul Market, the railway station, crowded buses and bus stops, especially those near the State Department Store. It has been reported in Ulaanbaatar.

How common is this scam in Mongolia?

Common. Mongolia is generally safe to visit, but theft is a concern, especially in Ulaanbaatar. Pickpocketing is the main problem for visitors; taxi overcharging, bag slashing and occasional robberies also occur. Some higher prices are regular pricing practices rather than scams.

Are there similar scams in Mongolia?

Yes: bag slashing, street mugging.

Who can I report it to?

District police station: go to the district police station to make a formal statement after an attack or pickpocketing. Bring any records and ask for a report reference. Your country's embassy: tell your embassy after an attack or pickpocketing. It can also advise you if your passport is stolen. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Travel insurer: contact your insurer promptly. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of your loss. Taxi service, airline or booking provider: report a disputed charge through the provider's official contact channel. Include your agreed price, receipt and booking details.

Reviewed by @snuck