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Occasional in Uzbekistan

Scam in UzbekistanFake officials

Possible bribe pressure during a document check in Uzbekistan

Police document checks

How it works

A document check can create an opportunity for an improper payment request. Checks themselves can be legitimate, and pressure on foreign visitors is described as unusual.

Warning signs

  • A document check turns into a request for an unofficial payment.
  • The officer will not clearly explain the payment or provide formal paperwork.

How to avoid it

  1. Keep colour copies of your passport and visa available.
  2. Keep original documents secure and accessible.
  3. Stay polite and firm during checks.
  4. Ask for a clear explanation and formal paperwork for any payment.

If it happens to you

Stay calm and ask to resolve the matter through an official process. Seek help from your accommodation or embassy if needed.

  1. Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
  2. If you are in immediate danger, call 112. For police, call 102.
  3. Contact your card issuer immediately if a card or its details are missing. Block the card and ask about disputed payments.
  4. Save receipts, booking screens, messages and payment records. Write down the time, place and what happened.
  5. Report theft, fraud or threats to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for insurance.
  6. Contact your insurer and, if your passport is lost or stolen, your embassy or consulate.
Where it happensPolice document checks

What travellers report

Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.

More scams in UzbekistanCounterfeit bottled water: how to avoid it

Questions

What is the possible bribe pressure during a document check scam in Uzbekistan?

A document check can create an opportunity for an improper payment request. Checks themselves can be legitimate, and pressure on foreign visitors is described as unusual.

How can I spot it early?

A document check turns into a request for an unofficial payment. The officer will not clearly explain the payment or provide formal paperwork.

How do I avoid possible bribe pressure during a document check in Uzbekistan?

Keep colour copies of your passport and visa available. Keep original documents secure and accessible. Stay polite and firm during checks. Ask for a clear explanation and formal paperwork for any payment.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Stay calm and ask to resolve the matter through an official process. Seek help from your accommodation or embassy if needed.

Where in Uzbekistan does this happen?

Police document checks

How common is this scam in Uzbekistan?

Occasional. Uzbekistan is generally safe for visitors, but tourists can face inflated taxi fares, shortchanging and poor exchange deals. Other risks include the found-cash scam, pickpockets in bazaars and strangers offering to show you the nightlife.

Who can I report it to?

Police: call 102 for police assistance. Report theft, fraud or threats and ask for a written record or reference. Unified emergency service: call 112 in an urgent situation. The service operates 24 hours a day. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block a card and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi booking service: if you booked through an app, use its support channel and attach the booking details and fare evidence. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost passport or a serious incident. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact on your policy. Keep receipts, payment evidence and any police report. Accommodation staff: ask reception for help explaining an incident, finding police assistance or choosing a medical provider.

What number do I call in an emergency in Uzbekistan?

Unified emergency service, available 24/7: 112, Police: 102, Medical emergency: 103, Fire: 101.

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