Scam in GrenadaChanging money
Rounded-up US-dollar payments in Grenada
How it works
US-dollar bills are widely accepted, but US coins are not. A business may give change in Eastern Caribbean currency or round up the bill. Rounding can leave you paying more than the stated price.
Warning signs
- The price is shown with a dollar sign but no currency label.
- The seller does not explain how change will be calculated.
How to avoid it
- Confirm whether the price is in US dollars or Eastern Caribbean dollars before paying.
- Ask what change you will receive.
- Check the total and count your change before leaving.
- Use Eastern Caribbean cash for small purchases when possible.
If it happens to you
Ask the seller to explain the total and correct any mistake. Keep the receipt if you need to raise the issue later.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing anyone or escalating an argument.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount and any description of the person or business.
- Save receipts, booking details, messages and screenshots. Photograph relevant details only if it is safe.
- Contact your card issuer promptly if a card was stolen or used without permission. Ask about blocking it and disputing charges.
- Report theft or suspected fraud to the police. Ask for a report reference or a copy for insurance.
- Contact your insurer if you may claim. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the rounded-up US-dollar payments scam in Grenada?
US-dollar bills are widely accepted, but US coins are not. A business may give change in Eastern Caribbean currency or round up the bill. Rounding can leave you paying more than the stated price.
How can I spot it early?
The price is shown with a dollar sign but no currency label. The seller does not explain how change will be calculated.
How do I avoid rounded-up US-dollar payments in Grenada?
Confirm whether the price is in US dollars or Eastern Caribbean dollars before paying. Ask what change you will receive. Check the total and count your change before leaving. Use Eastern Caribbean cash for small purchases when possible.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the seller to explain the total and correct any mistake. Keep the receipt if you need to raise the issue later.
Where in Grenada does this happen?
Businesses accepting US-dollar cash payments
How common is this scam in Grenada?
Occasional. Grenada is generally safe, and there is little indication of tourist scams. The main price concerns are rounded-up US-dollar payments and “duty-free” shops that may charge more than supermarkets; neither necessarily means fraud.
Who can I report it to?
The business involved: for a disputed price or incorrect change, explain the problem calmly and ask for a correction. Keep your receipt and a record of the response. Police: report theft or suspected fraud at a police station. Bring any receipts, messages and other evidence, and request a report reference. Your bank or card issuer: use its official app or a verified contact number to report a stolen card or an unauthorised charge. Your travel insurer: contact the claims service listed in your policy. Keep evidence of the loss and any police report. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help replacing a stolen passport or accessing consular assistance.
Reviewed by @snuck