Scam in UruguayChanging money
Poor exchange rates at the airport and in shops in Uruguay
How it works
Airport exchange desks offer much less favourable rates than city-centre exchange offices. Shops may also give poor rates when you pay in foreign currency. This can be an expensive transaction without being fraud.
Warning signs
- You are not told how many pesos you will receive.
- A shop converts your foreign cash without explaining the rate.
- The offered rate is much worse than other quotes.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the final peso amount before exchanging money.
- Compare rates at city-centre exchange offices.
- Exchange foreign cash into pesos before shopping.
- Check which currency a price uses before paying.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt. If the amount differs from what you agreed, ask the business to explain or correct it.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- If there is immediate danger, call 911 or 999. If you need an ambulance, call 105.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any disputed payments. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, payment records, messages and any useful details. Report theft or fraud to police and ask for a report reference.
- Contact your travel insurer. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate about a replacement.
Questions
What is the poor exchange rates at the airport and in shops scam in Uruguay?
Airport exchange desks offer much less favourable rates than city-centre exchange offices. Shops may also give poor rates when you pay in foreign currency. This can be an expensive transaction without being fraud.
How can I spot it early?
You are not told how many pesos you will receive. A shop converts your foreign cash without explaining the rate. The offered rate is much worse than other quotes.
How do I avoid poor exchange rates at the airport and in shops in Uruguay?
Ask for the final peso amount before exchanging money. Compare rates at city-centre exchange offices. Exchange foreign cash into pesos before shopping. Check which currency a price uses before paying.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt. If the amount differs from what you agreed, ask the business to explain or correct it.
Where in Uruguay does this happen?
Carrasco International Airport and shops accepting foreign currency in Montevideo. It has been reported in Montevideo.
How much can it cost me?
Airport rates are described as about 20% below interbank rates, compared with about 3% below at city-centre exchange offices.
How common is this scam in Uruguay?
Occasional. Uruguay has theft and robbery risks, especially in Montevideo, while Punta del Este and most rural areas have lower crime levels. Visitors should also watch for an airport shuttle sales trick and poor exchange rates. High prices, taxi fare charts and confusing currency symbols do not by themselves mean a scam.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 911 or 999 for a security emergency. For a theft or fraud report after the danger has passed, contact police and provide the time, place and available evidence. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorised payments. Business or transport operator: for a fare, exchange or service dispute, keep the receipt and ask the operator to explain the charge or correct an agreed service that was not provided. Accommodation staff: tell reception about a room theft, damaged lock or signs of entry. Ask for help contacting police. Travel insurer: use the contact details in your policy. Keep receipts and the police report reference for a claim. Embassy or consulate: if your passport is lost or stolen, use your country's official embassy or consulate contact details to request replacement travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in Uruguay?
Security emergency: 911, Security emergency, alternative number: 999, Firefighters: 104, Ambulance: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck