Scam in ItalyTheft
Ticket-machine cash-return theft in Italy
How it works
A supposed helper tells you to use a banknote instead of coins. When the machine returns the note, the helper points you towards the ticket outlet while an accomplice distracts you by begging. The accomplice takes the returned cash.
Warning signs
- A stranger insists the machine will not accept coins.
- Someone directs your attention away from the cash-return slot.
- Another person starts begging during the transaction.
How to avoid it
- Use the machine without help from strangers.
- Watch the cash-return slot until the transaction ends.
- Collect your cash, ticket and card before turning away.
If it happens to you
Alert station staff and report the theft to police. Note the machine location and time.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. If you are threatened or need urgent help, call 112.
- If a card or card details were stolen, contact your card issuer immediately. Freeze or cancel the card and flag unauthorised payments.
- Write down what happened, the time and the location. Save receipts, journey details and any other evidence.
- Report the incident at a police station and ask for a copy of the report. In Rome, go to the Carabinieri station nearest where the theft happened.
- Contact your insurer. A police report helps support an insurance claim. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
- Secure any affected accounts and arrange replacement cards or documents. Do not chase a thief or put yourself at risk to recover property.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the ticket-machine cash-return theft scam in Italy?
A supposed helper tells you to use a banknote instead of coins. When the machine returns the note, the helper points you towards the ticket outlet while an accomplice distracts you by begging. The accomplice takes the returned cash.
How can I spot it early?
A stranger insists the machine will not accept coins. Someone directs your attention away from the cash-return slot. Another person starts begging during the transaction.
How do I avoid ticket-machine cash-return theft in Italy?
Use the machine without help from strangers. Watch the cash-return slot until the transaction ends. Collect your cash, ticket and card before turning away.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Alert station staff and report the theft to police. Note the machine location and time.
Where in Italy does this happen?
Metro station ticket machines. It has been reported in Milan.
How much can it cost me?
€20 in the described trick.
How common is this scam in Italy?
Occasional. Italy is generally safe, but tourist scams and petty theft are common in busy visitor areas. The main risks are pickpockets, taxi tricks, pushy street sellers and people offering unwanted help at ticket machines.
Are there similar scams in Italy?
Yes: pickpockets and distraction teams, purse and bag snatching, friendly drunk distraction.
Who can I report it to?
Polizia di Stato or Carabinieri: go to a police station to report a scam or theft. You can ask any police officer for help. Request a copy of the report for insurance and replacement documents. Carabinieri in Rome: for theft, generally visit the station nearest where it happened. Ask people nearby where to go. Emergency services: call 112 for urgent help or when unsure which service you need. The WhereAreU app can also call 112 and share your phone's GPS position, including when you cannot speak. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to freeze a stolen or compromised card and dispute unauthorised transactions. Travel insurer: contact its claims service and provide the police report, receipts and other evidence. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport or travel documents are stolen.
What number do I call in an emergency in Italy?
General emergency help: 112, Polizia di Stato — State Police: 113, Guardia di Finanza — Financial Police: 117, Fire Department: 115, Medical Rescue: 118, Coast Guard: 1530, State Forestry Department: 1515.
Reviewed by @snuck