Scam in NigerChanging money
Poor-value airport currency exchange in Niger
How it works
Airport exchange gives a poor rate. Some currencies receive especially bad rates or are refused. This can cost you money without involving outright fraud.
Warning signs
- The quoted amount is poor compared with another available offer.
- You are not told exactly how many CFA francs you will receive.
How to avoid it
- Ask for the final amount before handing over cash.
- Exchange only what you need immediately if the rate is poor.
- Count the CFA francs before leaving.
- Consider exchanging through a bank.
If it happens to you
Raise any difference from the agreed amount immediately. Keep any receipt and note the exchange location.
- Get somewhere safe. Do not chase thieves or resist armed attackers.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, booking details and messages. Write down the time, place and a description of what happened.
- Report theft, fraud or violence to police when safe. Ask for a written report if available.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you are stranded. Notify your travel insurer and keep copies of your records.
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-value airport currency exchange scam in Niger?
Airport exchange gives a poor rate. Some currencies receive especially bad rates or are refused. This can cost you money without involving outright fraud.
How can I spot it early?
The quoted amount is poor compared with another available offer. You are not told exactly how many CFA francs you will receive.
How do I avoid poor-value airport currency exchange in Niger?
Ask for the final amount before handing over cash. Exchange only what you need immediately if the rate is poor. Count the CFA francs before leaving. Consider exchanging through a bank.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Raise any difference from the agreed amount immediately. Keep any receipt and note the exchange location.
Where in Niger does this happen?
Diori Hamani International Airport It has been reported in Niamey.
How common is this scam in Niger?
Occasional. Scams and fraud are common in Niger. Visitors may face fake requests for emergency money, inflated taxi fares, poor exchange rates and pressure to pay for unwanted help. Pickpocketing, bag theft and armed robbery also occur; outside Niamey, kidnapping and attacks on vehicles can be much more serious risks.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, fraud, robbery or an attack when it is safe to do so. Give the location, time, description and any evidence. Ask for a written report if available. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen, you are stranded or you need help after a serious incident. Your card issuer: use the issuer's official app or contact number to block missing cards and report unauthorised transactions. Airport staff: ask staff for help if someone will not return your luggage or you feel threatened by an unwanted porter. Your travel insurer: report the incident through its official claims channel. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of your losses.
Reviewed by @snuck