Scam in BulgariaChanging money
Poor exchange rates and unclear fees in Bulgaria
How it works
An exchanger buys your currency at a very poor rate. Fees or taxes may also reduce the amount you receive.
Warning signs
- The final amount is unclear before you hand over money.
- Staff do not clearly explain fees or taxes.
- The offered rate is much worse than other available rates.
How to avoid it
- Use a bank rather than a street exchange stall.
- Ask exactly how many euros you will receive after all fees.
- Confirm the final amount before handing over money.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt and ask the business to explain the calculation. Preserve the advertised rate and payment details if you report it.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who is threatening you.
- Freeze stolen or compromised cards and contact your card issuer. Report any unauthorised transactions.
- Save evidence. Keep receipts, messages, booking records and the time and location. For taxi disputes, record the taxi's details.
- Report theft or fraud to police. Call 112 if you face immediate danger or need emergency help.
- Contact your insurer, booking provider or rental company where relevant. Ask what records they need.
- If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement travel-document advice.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- News2019From forex bureaus to package holidays: Bulgaria’s consumer watchdog issues warningsBulgaria’s consumer watchdog describes exchange offices misleading holidaymakers with displays suggesting better rates than those actually applied.Read on News
- Travel blogCurrency And Money Exchange In BulgariaThe guide warns that some exchange offices conceal their buying rates while displaying selling rates to mislead tourists.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the poor exchange rates and unclear fees scam in Bulgaria?
An exchanger buys your currency at a very poor rate. Fees or taxes may also reduce the amount you receive.
How can I spot it early?
The final amount is unclear before you hand over money. Staff do not clearly explain fees or taxes. The offered rate is much worse than other available rates.
How do I avoid poor exchange rates and unclear fees in Bulgaria?
Use a bank rather than a street exchange stall. Ask exactly how many euros you will receive after all fees. Confirm the final amount before handing over money.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt and ask the business to explain the calculation. Preserve the advertised rate and payment details if you report it.
Where in Bulgaria does this happen?
Street exchange offices and stalls in Sofia, and money-changing services in Burgas. It has been reported in Sofia, Burgas.
How common is this scam in Bulgaria?
Common. Bulgaria is generally safe, but taxi scams, pickpocketing, money-changing tricks and ATM skimming are concerns for visitors. Take extra care at transport hubs, around waiting taxis and in summer crowds.
Are there similar scams in Bulgaria?
Yes: counterfeit money from street exchangers.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, fraud or threats and provide the evidence you have. For a taxi fare complaint, keep the receipt because it provides proof of the transaction. Emergency services: call 112 for an emergency. If it does not connect, use the relevant backup number listed below. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or a verified contact number to freeze the card and report unauthorised payments or withdrawals. Booking provider or payment service: report a fraudulent booking through its official support channel. Include the listing, messages and payment record. Travel insurer or vehicle rental company: contact its official claims or assistance service. Keep receipts, police-report details and other evidence. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Bulgaria?
All emergency services: 112, Police backup if 112 does not connect: 166, Ambulance backup if 112 does not connect: 150, Fire department backup if 112 does not connect: 160.
Reviewed by @snuck