Scam in SenegalOther tricks
The missing-change trick in Senegal
How it works
A seller or driver claims to have no change and may keep the extra cash. A Dakar taxi driver may do this even after promising to provide change. Some people genuinely cannot change large notes.
Warning signs
- You need to pay a small amount with a large note.
- A driver promises change before the ride but denies having it on arrival.
How to avoid it
- Carry notes of CFA2,000 or less for small payments.
- Break CFA5,000 and CFA10,000 notes at larger businesses.
- Pay the exact amount when possible.
If it happens to you
Ask calmly for your change. If needed, suggest changing the note at a nearby business, provided it is safe.
- Get to a safe, busy place. If someone threatens you, protect yourself before your belongings.
- Check what is missing. Contact your card issuer promptly to block stolen cards and report unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, messages and booking details. Write down the time, location, description and any vehicle details.
- Report theft, robbery or extortion to police. Ask for a written report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is stolen, you are detained or you need consular help.
- Tell your insurer and any relevant hotel or transport operator. Keep copies of reports and expenses.
Questions
What is the the missing-change trick scam in Senegal?
A seller or driver claims to have no change and may keep the extra cash. A Dakar taxi driver may do this even after promising to provide change. Some people genuinely cannot change large notes.
How can I spot it early?
You need to pay a small amount with a large note. A driver promises change before the ride but denies having it on arrival.
How do I avoid the missing-change trick in Senegal?
Carry notes of CFA2,000 or less for small payments. Break CFA5,000 and CFA10,000 notes at larger businesses. Pay the exact amount when possible.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask calmly for your change. If needed, suggest changing the note at a nearby business, provided it is safe.
Where in Senegal does this happen?
Everyday cash payments, including food purchases and taxi rides. Specifically described for taxis in Dakar.
How much can it cost me?
A few hundred CFA may be kept.
How common is this scam in Senegal?
Common. Tourist scams and petty theft are common in Dakar, especially around busy markets and the airport. Watch for inflated taxi fares, missing change, false guides, pickpockets and people posing as airport or hotel staff. Some tricks involve threats or robbery, so leave early if an encounter feels wrong.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or extortion. Give the location, time and any evidence. Ask for a written report or reference number. Official airport staff: at the airport, go to an official staffed desk if someone takes your bags or pressures you for money. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for a stolen passport, detention or consular assistance. Hotel or transport operator: tell reception or the operator about staff impersonation, luggage theft or a disputed service. Keep journey and booking details. Travel insurer: contact its claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of losses.
Reviewed by @snuck