Scam in RomaniaChanging money
Poor exchange rates and misleading rate boards in Romania
How it works
An exchange office offers a poor rate or draws attention to a rate that does not apply to your cash transaction. In Mamaia, offices may show separate rates for travellers' cheques and cash.
Warning signs
- The advertised rate applies to a different type of transaction.
- The rate is much worse than the reference rate you checked.
- Staff will not clearly state how many lei you will receive.
How to avoid it
- Compare rates before handing over money.
- Ask for the exact final payout for your cash and currency.
- Use a major bank if the terms are unclear.
- Avoid exchanging a large amount at the airport.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt and ask staff to explain the rate used. If you believe the transaction was fraudulent, keep the evidence and report it to police.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing a thief or arguing with someone who is threatening you.
- Lock missing bank cards immediately and contact the card issuer about suspicious payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, screenshots, car details and a short account of what happened.
- Report the incident at the nearest police station. Call 112 if there is an immediate emergency.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you need help during a difficult police encounter.
- Notify the taxi company, bank or insurer as relevant. Keep copies of reports and reference numbers.
Questions
What is the poor exchange rates and misleading rate boards scam in Romania?
An exchange office offers a poor rate or draws attention to a rate that does not apply to your cash transaction. In Mamaia, offices may show separate rates for travellers' cheques and cash.
How can I spot it early?
The advertised rate applies to a different type of transaction. The rate is much worse than the reference rate you checked. Staff will not clearly state how many lei you will receive.
How do I avoid poor exchange rates and misleading rate boards in Romania?
Compare rates before handing over money. Ask for the exact final payout for your cash and currency. Use a major bank if the terms are unclear. Avoid exchanging a large amount at the airport.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt and ask staff to explain the rate used. If you believe the transaction was fraudulent, keep the evidence and report it to police.
Where in Romania does this happen?
Airport exchange offices, Gara de Nord in Bucharest, exchanges near Brașov bus and railway stations, and exchange offices in Mamaia. It has been reported in Bucharest, Brașov, Constanța.
How much can it cost me?
Bucharest airport exchange rates are described as about 10% below the official rate. Choosing a reasonable exchange office can save as much as 10%.
How common is this scam in Romania?
Occasional. Romania is generally safe for visitors, and violence against tourists is rare. The main concerns are petty theft, taxi overcharging and money-exchange tricks, especially around transport hubs.
Are there similar scams in Romania?
Yes: hidden exchange commission, street money-exchange currency switch.
Who can I report it to?
Police: go to the nearest police station to report a crime. Bring the evidence and details you have. Emergency services: call 112 for an immediate police, ambulance or fire emergency. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to lock missing cards and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi company or booking service: use the booking record or official company contact details to report overcharging, meter concerns or a detour. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with missing travel documents. If a bribe demand continues, ask to speak to your embassy. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and provide receipts, police paperwork and other evidence requested under your policy.
What number do I call in an emergency in Romania?
Police, ambulance and fire: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck