Scam in NigerOn the street
Repeated requests for gifts or money in Niger
How it works
People repeatedly ask visitors for a 'cadeau', meaning a gift. Begging or selling something is not itself fraud, but repeated requests can put pressure on you to hand over money.
Warning signs
- Someone you do not know asks for a gift.
- Requests continue after you decline.
How to avoid it
- Decline calmly if you do not want to give.
- Keep moving if someone keeps pressing you.
- Keep your money out of sight.
If it happens to you
End the conversation calmly and move away. You do not need to pay because someone keeps asking.
- 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 repeated requests for gifts or money scam in Niger?
People repeatedly ask visitors for a 'cadeau', meaning a gift. Begging or selling something is not itself fraud, but repeated requests can put pressure on you to hand over money.
How can I spot it early?
Someone you do not know asks for a gift. Requests continue after you decline.
How do I avoid repeated requests for gifts or money in Niger?
Decline calmly if you do not want to give. Keep moving if someone keeps pressing you. Keep your money out of sight.
What should I do if it happens to me?
End the conversation calmly and move away. You do not need to pay because someone keeps asking.
Where in Niger does this happen?
Outside hotels and in public places
How common is this scam in Niger?
Very common. 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.
Are there similar scams in Niger?
Yes: fake acquaintance with an accident story.
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