Scam in UkraineChanging money
Street currency exchange theft and worthless notes in Ukraine
How it works
A street exchanger may steal from you or hand over old Soviet currency or withdrawn coupons instead of usable money.
Warning signs
- An individual offers to exchange money on the street.
- The notes offered are unfamiliar or appear to be old currency.
How to avoid it
- Use banks or dedicated exchange booths.
- Check and count the money before leaving the counter.
- Do not hand cash to street exchangers.
If it happens to you
Do not pursue the exchanger. Keep any notes and evidence, record the location and report the loss.
- 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 street currency exchange theft and worthless notes scam in Ukraine?
A street exchanger may steal from you or hand over old Soviet currency or withdrawn coupons instead of usable money.
How can I spot it early?
An individual offers to exchange money on the street. The notes offered are unfamiliar or appear to be old currency.
How do I avoid street currency exchange theft and worthless notes in Ukraine?
Use banks or dedicated exchange booths. Check and count the money before leaving the counter. Do not hand cash to street exchangers.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not pursue the exchanger. Keep any notes and evidence, record the location and report the loss.
Where in Ukraine does this happen?
Individual currency exchangers on the street.
How common is this scam in Ukraine?
Occasional. 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: misleading exchange rates.
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