Scam in UkraineTheft
Robbery and targeting visible tourists in Ukraine
How it works
Thieves may target people who look unfamiliar with the area or display wealth. In Kyiv, people have been heard discussing following visitors to see what they could steal.
Warning signs
- Someone appears to keep following you.
- Strangers take a strong interest in your money or belongings.
How to avoid it
- Avoid displaying cash, jewellery or other valuables.
- If followed, move into a staffed public place.
- Keep spare money separate from your main wallet.
If it happens to you
Put your safety first. Do not chase or physically confront the thief. Reach a safe place and report the robbery.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Avoid chasing anyone or escalating a confrontation.
- Check what is missing. If cards or your phone were stolen, contact the relevant providers and secure your accounts.
- Save receipts, messages and transaction records. Write down the time, location and a description of what happened.
- Report the scam or theft to police. Request a report or reference number for insurance or bank claims.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing, you are detained or you need help finding assistance.
- Contact your insurer and card issuer where relevant. If fake alcohol may have caused poisoning, seek urgent medical help.
Questions
What is the robbery and targeting visible tourists scam in Ukraine?
Thieves may target people who look unfamiliar with the area or display wealth. In Kyiv, people have been heard discussing following visitors to see what they could steal.
How can I spot it early?
Someone appears to keep following you. Strangers take a strong interest in your money or belongings.
How do I avoid robbery and targeting visible tourists in Ukraine?
Avoid displaying cash, jewellery or other valuables. If followed, move into a staffed public place. Keep spare money separate from your main wallet.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Put your safety first. Do not chase or physically confront the thief. Reach a safe place and report the robbery.
Where in Ukraine does this happen?
Across Ukraine, with tourist robberies specifically noted in Kyiv.
How common is this scam in Ukraine?
Common. Tourist scams and robberies are fairly common in Ukraine, especially in Kyiv, where pickpocketing and the wallet or found-money scam are concerns. Other risks include dishonest currency exchanges, fake police, baggage theft and fake alcohol; petty crime is described as lower in Lviv. Ukraine is at war, so this scam guide does not cover all travel risks.
Are there similar scams in Ukraine?
Yes: pickpocketing, baggage-locker helper theft.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud at a police station. Bring any receipts, messages and transaction details, and request a report reference. Police online: report suspected official corruption online. No reporting address is provided. Your embassy or consulate: use the contact details and emergency number saved before your trip. Seek help with detention, a stolen passport or serious difficulties. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorized transactions. Station staff or baggage-storage staff: report missing stored baggage immediately. Provide the locker number, storage receipt and approximate time. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck