Scam in South SudanChanging money
Street money-changing risk in South Sudan
How it works
Street money changers offer currency exchange while displaying stacks of cash. Caution is advised, but no specific fraud method or frequency is described.
Warning signs
- The exchange is offered on the street.
- The changer displays stacks of South Sudanese pounds.
How to avoid it
- Avoid exchanging money with street changers.
- Confirm the rate and the total you will receive before handing over cash.
- Count your money before leaving.
- If paying in US dollars at Juba Mall, Lily's or Phoenicia, confirm whether your change will be in dollars or South Sudanese pounds.
If it happens to you
If the amount is wrong, ask calmly for it to be corrected. Avoid confrontation and leave if you feel threatened.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or resist an armed attacker.
- Seek medical help if you are hurt.
- Block stolen cards and tell your card issuer about any unauthorised transactions.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place and losses. Save receipts or messages if you have them.
- Report the incident to police when it is safe. Ask for a written report or reference for insurance.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you need urgent support. Tell your travel insurer about the loss.
Questions
What is the street money-changing risk scam in South Sudan?
Street money changers offer currency exchange while displaying stacks of cash. Caution is advised, but no specific fraud method or frequency is described.
How can I spot it early?
The exchange is offered on the street. The changer displays stacks of South Sudanese pounds.
How do I avoid street money-changing risk in South Sudan?
Avoid exchanging money with street changers. Confirm the rate and the total you will receive before handing over cash. Count your money before leaving. If paying in US dollars at Juba Mall, Lily's or Phoenicia, confirm whether your change will be in dollars or South Sudanese pounds.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If the amount is wrong, ask calmly for it to be corrected. Avoid confrontation and leave if you feel threatened.
Where in South Sudan does this happen?
Streets where money changers display stacks of South Sudanese pounds.
How common is this scam in South Sudan?
Occasional. There is no clear information on how often tourist scams happen in South Sudan. Street money changers deserve caution, and foreign visitors have suffered armed robbery and muggings in Juba. The overall travel risk is high because of violent crime and wider insecurity.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report robbery, theft or suspected fraud when safe. Ask for a written record. No local reporting number or specialist tourist unit is provided. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block cards and report unauthorised payments. Your embassy or consulate: contact its official assistance service for a lost passport or serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service listed in your policy. Keep incident records and receipts.
Reviewed by @snuck