Scam in SyriaChanging money
Poor currency exchange rates in Syria
How it works
A visitor who does not know the current exchange rate can receive a poor deal when changing cash. Some ordinary shops in the Old City also exchange money, but this is described as illegal.
Warning signs
- The offered rate is much worse than the current rate you checked.
- The final amount or any commission is unclear.
- An ordinary shop offers informal currency exchange.
How to avoid it
- Check the current exchange rate before handing over money.
- Ask how many Syrian pounds you will receive after all fees.
- Confirm whether the amount is in old or new Syrian pounds.
- Count the notes before leaving and avoid informal shop exchanges.
If it happens to you
Point out the difference immediately and ask for it to be corrected. Keep any receipt and record the location. Leave and seek help if the exchange becomes threatening.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone threatens you, avoid arguing or fighting over money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount paid and any vehicle or business details. Save receipts and messages.
- If a card or phone is missing, contact the card issuer to freeze cards and secure affected accounts.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to local police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need help finding local assistance.
- Tell your insurer promptly and keep copies of reports, receipts and other evidence needed for a claim.
Questions
What is the poor currency exchange rates scam in Syria?
A visitor who does not know the current exchange rate can receive a poor deal when changing cash. Some ordinary shops in the Old City also exchange money, but this is described as illegal.
How can I spot it early?
The offered rate is much worse than the current rate you checked. The final amount or any commission is unclear. An ordinary shop offers informal currency exchange.
How do I avoid poor currency exchange rates in Syria?
Check the current exchange rate before handing over money. Ask how many Syrian pounds you will receive after all fees. Confirm whether the amount is in old or new Syrian pounds. Count the notes before leaving and avoid informal shop exchanges.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Point out the difference immediately and ask for it to be corrected. Keep any receipt and record the location. Leave and seek help if the exchange becomes threatening.
Where in Syria does this happen?
Change houses near large souks and money-changing shops in the Old City of Damascus. It has been reported in Damascus.
How common is this scam in Syria?
Occasional. Taxi overcharging is a common concern in Syria, especially when drivers bargain with foreign visitors instead of using the meter. Other reported problems include fake taxis at Damascus bus terminals, begging tricks, poor exchange rates and tourist shopping markups. Conflict and political tensions pose separate, serious risks; this scam guide does not establish that an area is safe to visit.
Who can I report it to?
Local police: report theft, threats, assault or suspected fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any evidence. No local reporting number or specialist police unit is provided. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a missing card and report any unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost passport or serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service listed in your policy. Keep receipts and any police report. Taxi app or booking provider: if the journey was booked through a service, report the fare dispute through its official support channel and save the booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck