Scam in RomaniaChanging money
Street money-exchange currency switch in Romania
How it works
A stranger offers to exchange money, then gives you a bundle containing Polish złoty instead of the Romanian lei you expected.
Warning signs
- A stranger offers a street exchange.
- The promised rate seems better than normal exchange offices.
How to avoid it
- Do not exchange money with strangers.
- Use a bank, a clear exchange-office offer or a bank ATM.
- Check the currency and amount before completing an exchange.
If it happens to you
Do not chase or confront the person. Keep any evidence and report the fraud to police.
- Move to a safe place. Avoid chasing a thief or arguing with someone who is threatening you.
- Lock missing bank cards immediately and contact the card issuer about suspicious payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, screenshots, car details and a short account of what happened.
- Report the incident at the nearest police station. Call 112 if there is an immediate emergency.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing or you need help during a difficult police encounter.
- Notify the taxi company, bank or insurer as relevant. Keep copies of reports and reference numbers.
Questions
What is the street money-exchange currency switch scam in Romania?
A stranger offers to exchange money, then gives you a bundle containing Polish złoty instead of the Romanian lei you expected.
How can I spot it early?
A stranger offers a street exchange. The promised rate seems better than normal exchange offices.
How do I avoid street money-exchange currency switch in Romania?
Do not exchange money with strangers. Use a bank, a clear exchange-office offer or a bank ATM. Check the currency and amount before completing an exchange.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not chase or confront the person. Keep any evidence and report the fraud to police.
Where in Romania does this happen?
Street exchanges with strangers.
How common is this scam in Romania?
Occasional. Romania is generally safe for visitors, and violence against tourists is rare. The main concerns are petty theft, taxi overcharging and money-exchange tricks, especially around transport hubs.
Are there similar scams in Romania?
Yes: poor exchange rates and misleading rate boards, hidden exchange commission.
Who can I report it to?
Police: go to the nearest police station to report a crime. Bring the evidence and details you have. Emergency services: call 112 for an immediate police, ambulance or fire emergency. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to lock missing cards and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi company or booking service: use the booking record or official company contact details to report overcharging, meter concerns or a detour. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with missing travel documents. If a bribe demand continues, ask to speak to your embassy. Travel insurer: contact the claims service and provide receipts, police paperwork and other evidence requested under your policy.
What number do I call in an emergency in Romania?
Police, ambulance and fire: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck