Scam in MongoliaTheft
Street mugging in Mongolia
How it works
A robber uses threats or force to take a visitor's belongings. Muggings occasionally occur in the city.
Warning signs
- You are walking alone through a dark or deserted area.
- Someone approaches you aggressively.
How to avoid it
- Avoid walking alone at night.
- Stay on well-lit, busy routes.
- Avoid deserted alleys and rowdy nightlife areas.
- Carry only the valuables you need.
If it happens to you
Put your safety first and do not resist a violent robber. Seek medical help if injured, then report the attack at the district police station and tell your embassy.
- Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, secure your banking and other important accounts.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, booking records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report theft or assault at the district police station. Ask for a copy or reference for your report.
- Tell your embassy if you were attacked, lost your passport or need help. Contact your insurer and the relevant payment or booking provider.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/solotravel2024Looking for advice. Going alone to Mongolia and wanted to know about general health and wellness tips while camping in the Steppe and the Gobi DesertA commenter says their only experience of being mugged occurred in Ulaanbaatar approximately seventeen years before the discussion.Read on Reddit
- Government adviceSafety and security - Mongolia travel advice - GOV.UKThe UK reports that foreigners have been assaulted and robbed in Ulaanbaatar and advises against being outside alone at night.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the street mugging scam in Mongolia?
A robber uses threats or force to take a visitor's belongings. Muggings occasionally occur in the city.
How can I spot it early?
You are walking alone through a dark or deserted area. Someone approaches you aggressively.
How do I avoid street mugging in Mongolia?
Avoid walking alone at night. Stay on well-lit, busy routes. Avoid deserted alleys and rowdy nightlife areas. Carry only the valuables you need.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Put your safety first and do not resist a violent robber. Seek medical help if injured, then report the attack at the district police station and tell your embassy.
Where in Mongolia does this happen?
Ulaanbaatar, with extra caution needed in dark or deserted streets and away from major routes at night. It has been reported in Ulaanbaatar.
How common is this scam in Mongolia?
Occasional. Mongolia is generally safe to visit, but theft is a concern, especially in Ulaanbaatar. Pickpocketing is the main problem for visitors; taxi overcharging, bag slashing and occasional robberies also occur. Some higher prices are regular pricing practices rather than scams.
Are there similar scams in Mongolia?
Yes: pickpocketing in markets and on public transport, bag slashing.
Who can I report it to?
District police station: go to the district police station to make a formal statement after an attack or pickpocketing. Bring any records and ask for a report reference. Your country's embassy: tell your embassy after an attack or pickpocketing. It can also advise you if your passport is stolen. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Travel insurer: contact your insurer promptly. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of your loss. Taxi service, airline or booking provider: report a disputed charge through the provider's official contact channel. Include your agreed price, receipt and booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck