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Few scams

Western Europe

Tourist scams in Switzerland

Switzerland is generally very safe, but theft still affects visitors. The main concerns are pickpockets, stolen bags and burglary; the other risks described here include a rigged street game, pushy begging and exposed card details.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketing and petty theftThieves take valuables while travellers are distracted. Petty theft is fairly common in Geneva. Pickpockets are also a main theft concern on Basel's public transport.Crowded tourist areas, especially in summer. Basel trams and buses and public places in Geneva need extra care. 2Read
  2. 2 TheftCommonBag snatching on the airport trainBag snatchers target this train route. A bag left out of sight or beyond easy reach is harder to protect.Lausanne, Geneva 3Read
  3. 3 TheftCommonBicycle and bicycle-part theftThieves take unsecured bicycle parts, including seats and wheels. Bicycles may also be vandalised.Geneva 2Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalHotel and apartment burglaryBurglars steal from accommodation. Organised groups are linked to an increase in burglary in Geneva.Geneva 1Read
  5. 5 Cards and ATMsOccasionalFull card number exposed on a receiptSome establishments may print the entire credit card number on a receipt. This exposes sensitive details and creates a risk of identity theft. The receipt itself is not proof of fraud.A few establishments across Switzerland.Read
  6. 6 On the streetOccasionalRigged hiding-the-ball street gamePlayers bet on where a ball is hidden. The game is rigged. It used to be commonplace here, but its present frequency is unclear.Geneva 2Read
  7. 7 On the streetOccasionalPushy or organised beggingOrganised begging groups and occasional begging children are reported in these areas. Some requests may become pushy. Begging alone does not prove that someone is dishonest or part of a group.Lausanne 3Read
  8. 8 On the streetOccasionalUnwanted approaches from drug dealersDealers may approach or hassle passers-by. These approaches are not described as a specific fraud, and the dealers are not usually seeking to mug people.Lausanne 1Read

Where to stay alert

  • Trams and buses, BaselPickpockets are a main theft concern on public transport.
  • Train route between Lausanne and Geneva AirportThis route is a known target for bag snatchers.
  • Bridges south of the railway station, GenevaRigged hiding-the-ball games used to be commonplace. Police action was reported in 2015; current frequency is unclear.
  • Old town, LausanneOrganised begging and occasional begging children are reported.
  • Lausanne-FlonA reported focus for begging during the day.
  • Saint-François, LausanneA reported focus for begging during the day.
  • Train station, LausannePassers-by may be hassled by drug dealers.
  • Chauderon, LausannePassers-by may be hassled by drug dealers.

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and valuables secure in summer crowds.
  • Watch your belongings on Basel trams and buses.
  • Keep luggage in sight on trains between Lausanne and Geneva Airport.
  • Secure bicycle wheels and the frame, and remove loose accessories.

Cards and ATMs

  • Check whether your receipt shows your full card number.
  • Store sensitive receipts securely and destroy them before disposal.
  • Shield your PIN when paying or withdrawing cash.
  • Check transactions and report unfamiliar charges to your card issuer.

Money

  • Use banks or train stations when you need to exchange money.
  • Check the currency and total before paying.
  • If paying in euros, check the exchange rate and the currency of your change.
  • Do not bet on street games.

Where you stay

  • Lock hotel and apartment doors when you leave.
  • Close windows before going out.
  • Tell your host or reception if a lock does not work.

Nights out

  • Leave if someone becomes aggressive or too persistent.
  • Go into a nearby restaurant if you feel threatened.
  • On a Basel tram or bus at night, sit near the operator if you feel uncomfortable.

Police and officials

  • Carry your passport or ID card for identification checks.
  • Stay calm and polite if police ask to see your papers.
  • Ask police for help if you are in trouble.
  • Never offer a police officer a bribe.

What travellers say about Switzerland

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Switzerland?

Switzerland is generally very safe. Theft is the main concern described here, especially petty theft in Geneva, pickpockets on Basel public transport and bag snatching on the Lausanne–Geneva Airport train.

How can I protect my wallet on public transport?

Keep it in a secure pocket or closed bag. Hold your bag in front of you in crowds, and pay extra attention on Basel trams and buses.

Is my luggage safe on the train to Geneva Airport?

The route between Lausanne and Geneva Airport is a known target for bag snatchers. Keep small bags with you and larger luggage where you can see it.

Should I join a hiding-the-ball street game in Geneva?

No. Rigged games used to operate near bridges south of the railway station. Police action was reported in 2015, so the warning is historical, but you should still avoid betting.

What should I check on a card receipt?

Check whether it shows your entire card number. A few establishments may print it in full. Keep such receipts secure and destroy them before disposal.

How can I reduce the risk of a break-in?

Lock your accommodation door and close windows whenever you leave. Burglary is a concern mentioned for Geneva.

Can bicycle parts be stolen even if the bike is locked?

Yes. Geneva has reports of stolen seats, wheels and other unsecured parts. Lock the frame and wheels, and remove loose accessories.

What should I do about pushy begging in Lausanne?

Decline briefly and keep walking if you feel pressured. Begging alone does not prove fraud. Report a begging child to the nearest police officer or security guard.

Does a police request for ID mean I am being scammed?

No. Police may ask for identification, and checks are specifically mentioned in Bern. Carry your passport or ID card, and stay calm and polite.

Who can help if I feel threatened?

Enter a nearby restaurant and seek help. Call 112 for an emergency. In Basel, 117 is also listed for police emergencies, and tram or bus operators can help alert police.

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