Scam in HungaryTheft
Pickpocketing on public transport and in crowds in Hungary
How it works
Thieves take wallets, passports, cash and cards from pockets or bags. Closed purses and backpacks can still be vulnerable. Pickpocketing is the most common crime against tourists in Budapest.
Warning signs
- Your bag is behind you in a crowd.
- Your wallet or passport is easy to reach.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag in front of you on public transport.
- Keep your wallet in a front pocket.
- Keep cash, cards and documents secure.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe. Check what is missing, freeze stolen cards and report the theft to police.
- Move to a safe public place. If you are threatened or in immediate danger, call 112.
- Freeze missing cards through your bank's app or contact your card issuer. Check for unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, screenshots and the time and location. Record vehicle or business details if safe.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or a copy for your insurer.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen. Tell your travel insurer about any covered loss.
- For disputed bills or fares, contact the business or taxi company. Ask your card issuer about a payment dispute if relevant.
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 on public transport and in crowds scam in Hungary?
Thieves take wallets, passports, cash and cards from pockets or bags. Closed purses and backpacks can still be vulnerable. Pickpocketing is the most common crime against tourists in Budapest.
How can I spot it early?
Your bag is behind you in a crowd. Your wallet or passport is easy to reach.
How do I avoid pickpocketing on public transport and in crowds in Hungary?
Keep your bag in front of you on public transport. Keep your wallet in a front pocket. Keep cash, cards and documents secure.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe. Check what is missing, freeze stolen cards and report the theft to police.
Where in Hungary does this happen?
Public transport and crowded places.
How common is this scam in Hungary?
Common. Hungary is generally very safe, but tourists can face pickpocketing, taxi tricks and inflated bills. The main warnings concern Budapest, especially Váci utca, transport hubs and taxis used around nightclubs.
Are there similar scams in Hungary?
Yes: baggage theft while sleeping on trains.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 112 if you are in immediate danger or need urgent help. Police: report theft, fraud or threats to police. The police number is 107. Bring any receipts, booking details and a list of missing items. Budapest TourInform complaint and assistance office: visit Sütő Street 2, District V. The office is described as open 24/7 and able to receive complaints and help in English and German. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's app or its official contact number to freeze stolen cards, report unauthorised payments or ask about a payment dispute. Taxi company or business: use the contact details in your booking or on your receipt. Provide the journey or purchase details and explain the disputed amount. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: contact your insurer through its claims service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Hungary?
General emergency: 112, Police: 107, Ambulance: 104, Fire: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck