Scam in SwedenTheft
Pickpocketing in Sweden
How it works
Thieves take wallets or other belongings in places used by tourists. Crowds can make a theft harder to notice.
Warning signs
- Your bag is open or its pockets are easy to reach.
- A wallet or phone sticks out of an outer pocket.
- People are crowded closely around you.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag closed and in front of you in crowds.
- Keep your wallet and phone in a secure pocket.
- Check your belongings when boarding or leaving public transport.
If it happens to you
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft to police. Freeze any missing payment cards.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing a thief or arguing with someone who feels threatening.
- Freeze missing payment cards immediately. Contact your card issuer about any unauthorised charges.
- Save receipts, booking details, screenshots and any agreed price. Write down the time, location and vehicle details if relevant.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or copy.
- Contact the business, taxi company or rental company involved. Explain what happened and keep a record of the reply.
- Contact your insurer if you have cover. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement guidance.
Questions
What is the pickpocketing scam in Sweden?
Thieves take wallets or other belongings in places used by tourists. Crowds can make a theft harder to notice.
How can I spot it early?
Your bag is open or its pockets are easy to reach. A wallet or phone sticks out of an outer pocket. People are crowded closely around you.
How do I avoid pickpocketing in Sweden?
Keep your bag closed and in front of you in crowds. Keep your wallet and phone in a secure pocket. Check your belongings when boarding or leaving public transport.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Move somewhere safe, check what is missing and report the theft to police. Freeze any missing payment cards.
Where in Sweden does this happen?
Airports, railway stations, public transport, shopping areas and festivals.
How common is this scam in Sweden?
Occasional. Sweden is generally safe for travellers, and tourist scams are not described as widespread. The main concerns are pickpocketing, bicycle theft, expensive taxi fares and poor exchange rates when paying in euros.
Are there similar scams in Sweden?
Yes: bicycle theft.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, suspected fraud or danger. Give the location, time, missing items and any evidence. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to freeze a card and report unauthorised payments. Taxi company: contact the company using your booking details or receipt. Provide the vehicle registration, agreed price and amount charged. Shop or other business: show the receipt and explain the difference between the agreed price and the amount charged. Keep written replies. Bicycle rental company: report a stolen rental bicycle promptly. Share the police report reference and rental details. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need help replacing travel documents. Travel insurer: follow the claims process and keep receipts, police paperwork and records of your losses.
Reviewed by @snuck