Scam in MongoliaShopping
Prices raised after salary day in Mongolia
How it works
Some shops raise prices after public salary day. This is a reported pricing practice, with no claim that it targets tourists or involves deception.
Warning signs
- You are shopping during the listed dates.
- An item's price is higher than at other shops or on an earlier visit.
How to avoid it
- Make larger purchases outside those dates when practical.
- Compare prices at several shops.
- Confirm the price before paying.
If it happens to you
Ask about the price before completing the purchase. If you have already paid, keep the receipt and ask the shop about its return policy.
- Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, secure your banking and other important accounts.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, booking records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report theft or assault at the district police station. Ask for a copy or reference for your report.
- Tell your embassy if you were attacked, lost your passport or need help. Contact your insurer and the relevant payment or booking provider.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the prices raised after salary day scam in Mongolia?
Some shops raise prices after public salary day. This is a reported pricing practice, with no claim that it targets tourists or involves deception.
How can I spot it early?
You are shopping during the listed dates. An item's price is higher than at other shops or on an earlier visit.
How do I avoid prices raised after salary day in Mongolia?
Make larger purchases outside those dates when practical. Compare prices at several shops. Confirm the price before paying.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask about the price before completing the purchase. If you have already paid, keep the receipt and ask the shop about its return policy.
Where in Mongolia does this happen?
Grocery shops and some merchandise shops, around the 14th–16th and 29th–31st of each month. It has been reported in Erdenet.
How much can it cost me?
Prices may rise by 10–30%.
How common is this scam in Mongolia?
Common. Mongolia is generally safe to visit, but theft is a concern, especially in Ulaanbaatar. Pickpocketing is the main problem for visitors; taxi overcharging, bag slashing and occasional robberies also occur. Some higher prices are regular pricing practices rather than scams.
Who can I report it to?
District police station: go to the district police station to make a formal statement after an attack or pickpocketing. Bring any records and ask for a report reference. Your country's embassy: tell your embassy after an attack or pickpocketing. It can also advise you if your passport is stolen. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Travel insurer: contact your insurer promptly. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of your loss. Taxi service, airline or booking provider: report a disputed charge through the provider's official contact channel. Include your agreed price, receipt and booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck