Scam in ArmeniaChanging money
Poor rates at non-bank airport exchanges in Armenia
How it works
A non-bank exchange counter gives a poor rate, so you receive fewer dram for your money. A convenient location does not mean the rate is competitive.
Warning signs
- The rate is worse than nearby bank counters.
- You are asked to hand over money before confirming how many dram you will receive.
How to avoid it
- Compare the rate with bank exchange counters at the airport.
- Confirm the final amount in dram before exchanging.
- Check the receipt and count the money before leaving.
If it happens to you
Raise any mismatch with the agreed amount immediately and keep the receipt. A poor rate alone may be difficult to reverse once accepted.
- Move to a safe public place. Leave an argument if you feel threatened.
- Save evidence. Keep receipts, screenshots, trip details and the agreed price. Note the car registration if you can do so safely.
- For a fare dispute, calmly state the agreement. Ask nearby locals or police for help if needed.
- If cards or a phone are missing, contact your card issuer, block cards and secure affected accounts.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Report an app-booked ride through the booking service too. Ask for a report reference or copy.
- Contact your insurer if you may claim. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
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 rates at non-bank airport exchanges scam in Armenia?
A non-bank exchange counter gives a poor rate, so you receive fewer dram for your money. A convenient location does not mean the rate is competitive.
How can I spot it early?
The rate is worse than nearby bank counters. You are asked to hand over money before confirming how many dram you will receive.
How do I avoid poor rates at non-bank airport exchanges in Armenia?
Compare the rate with bank exchange counters at the airport. Confirm the final amount in dram before exchanging. Check the receipt and count the money before leaving.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Raise any mismatch with the agreed amount immediately and keep the receipt. A poor rate alone may be difficult to reverse once accepted.
Where in Armenia does this happen?
Non-bank currency exchange counters at Zvartnots International Airport. It has been reported in Yerevan.
How common is this scam in Armenia?
Occasional. Armenia is generally very safe, and tourist scams mainly involve taxi fares. Drivers may raise an agreed price, take detours or claim public transport is unavailable. Pickpocketing and theft can also happen in Yerevan, especially in crowds and on public transport.
Who can I report it to?
Police: seek police help for theft, threats or a serious taxi fare dispute. Share the location, vehicle details, agreed price and any evidence. gg or Yandex.Taxi: for an app-booked ride, use the service's support or reporting option. Keep the trip record and explain the route or fare problem. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to block a missing card and report unauthorized transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official channels if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: use the claims contact in your policy. Keep receipts, evidence and any police report.
Reviewed by @snuck