Scam in GambiaChanging money
Unlicensed street currency exchange in Gambia
How it works
Changing money with unlicensed street dealers exposes you to exchange scams. No specific method is described.
Warning signs
- Someone offers to exchange money on the street.
- The exchange is outside an official bank or licensed exchange bureau.
How to avoid it
- Use official banks or licensed foreign exchange bureaus.
- Confirm the rate and any fee before handing over money.
- Count your money before leaving the counter.
If it happens to you
Keep any receipts and note the location and details. Report suspected fraud to police once you are safe.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or confront someone who threatens you.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were taken, freeze cards and secure your accounts as soon as possible.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, amount lost and descriptions. Save receipts, messages and booking details.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to police when safe. Ask for a written report or reference number for insurance.
- Contact your embassy if your passport is missing, you are detained or you need help finding legal support. Avoid using an embassy call as a threat during a confrontation.
- Notify your insurer and any relevant bank or booking provider. Keep copies of reports and records, and do not pay anyone promising guaranteed recovery.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Travel blogCurrencyGambia Uncovered warns that exchanging money with unauthorised people on the street increases the risk of counterfeit currency and scams.Read on Travel blog
- Travel blog2022Useful information before the first trip to The Gambia | My GambiaMy Gambia advises visitors against street currency exchange even when dealers offer more favourable rates.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the unlicensed street currency exchange scam in Gambia?
Changing money with unlicensed street dealers exposes you to exchange scams. No specific method is described.
How can I spot it early?
Someone offers to exchange money on the street. The exchange is outside an official bank or licensed exchange bureau.
How do I avoid unlicensed street currency exchange in Gambia?
Use official banks or licensed foreign exchange bureaus. Confirm the rate and any fee before handing over money. Count your money before leaving the counter.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep any receipts and note the location and details. Report suspected fraud to police once you are safe.
Where in Gambia does this happen?
Street currency exchanges in Banjul It has been reported in Banjul.
How common is this scam in Gambia?
Occasional. Tourists in The Gambia can face persistent touts, requests for money, fake hotel staff and offers of help that lead to unexpected fees. Other risks include drug-related bribe traps, demands for passport-stamping bribes at borders, and pickpocketing or bag snatching in crowded parts of Banjul.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or suspected fraud once you are safe. Give the location, time, loss and any evidence. Ask for a written report or reference number. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or verified contact details to freeze stolen cards and report any unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use official contact details for help with a missing passport, detention or finding legal support. Seek help safely after a confrontation rather than threatening officials with an embassy call. Travel insurer: contact the claims service using your policy details. Keep receipts, police records and evidence of the loss. Hotel reception: contact reception directly to check anyone claiming to work for the hotel. Tell staff if someone is using the hotel's name to approach guests.
Reviewed by @snuck