Scam in IranChanging money
Poor hotel currency-exchange rates in Iran
How it works
Hotels that exchange money may offer much worse rates than local money changers. This is a poor-value exchange rather than necessarily fraud.
Warning signs
- The hotel offers much less local cash than another exchange quote.
- You are asked to agree before seeing the total amount you will receive.
How to avoid it
- Compare the hotel's rate before handing over money.
- Check exchange options on Imam Khomeini Boulevard, where rates are described as competitive.
- Confirm the final amount you will receive.
If it happens to you
Ask whether the exchange can be reversed. Keep the receipt and use a better-value exchange option next time.
- Get somewhere safe. If someone threatens you, put your safety ahead of money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, where it happened and any details you remember. Keep receipts, messages and booking records.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were stolen, contact the issuer or mobile provider promptly to secure them.
- Report fraud, theft or threats to police. Call 110 for help or visit a police station. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was taken. Tell your travel insurer and keep copies of reports and expenses.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the poor hotel currency-exchange rates scam in Iran?
Hotels that exchange money may offer much worse rates than local money changers. This is a poor-value exchange rather than necessarily fraud.
How can I spot it early?
The hotel offers much less local cash than another exchange quote. You are asked to agree before seeing the total amount you will receive.
How do I avoid poor hotel currency-exchange rates in Iran?
Compare the hotel's rate before handing over money. Check exchange options on Imam Khomeini Boulevard, where rates are described as competitive. Confirm the final amount you will receive.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask whether the exchange can be reversed. Keep the receipt and use a better-value exchange option next time.
Where in Iran does this happen?
Hotels in Mashhad It has been reported in Mashhad.
How common is this scam in Iran?
Occasional. Iran is described as a relatively low-crime country, but taxi overcharging, counterfeit money, fake police and theft can affect visitors. Take extra care when arranging fares, exchanging cash or moving through crowded bazaars, buses and places of worship. The frequency of most scams is not clear.
Are there similar scams in Iran?
Yes: counterfeit cash from street money changers.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 110 or visit a police station. English-speaking operators are available on 110. A police station is called a kalantari. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official contact channel to report stolen cards, secure the account and ask about any disputed transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your own country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and a record of the loss. Ride-hailing support: for a Snapp trip, contact its support line for help with driver communication. English-speaking support is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Iran?
Police: 110, Ambulance and emergency medical services: 115, Fire and rescue: 125, Iranian Red Crescent rescue and relief hotline: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck