Scam in CameroonChanging money
Very high fees for exchanging traveller's cheques in Cameroon
How it works
Traveller's cheques are difficult to exchange, and the service can involve very high extra charges. No specific fraudulent method is described.
Warning signs
- The exchange involves extra service charges.
- You have not been told the final amount you will receive.
How to avoid it
- Ask for all charges and the final payout before agreeing.
- Avoid relying on traveller's cheques for spending money.
- Consider a bank ATM or an established money-transfer service instead.
If it happens to you
Keep the receipt. If a charge was not disclosed or agreed, raise it with the service provider.
- Get to a safe place. During a robbery, do not resist, chase anyone or try to recover belongings by force.
- Check for injuries. Seek medical help if you have been hurt.
- Block stolen cards immediately. Secure a stolen phone and change passwords for important accounts.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, messages, booking details and any vehicle information you already have.
- Report the incident to the police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing or you need consular help, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the very high fees for exchanging traveller's cheques scam in Cameroon?
Traveller's cheques are difficult to exchange, and the service can involve very high extra charges. No specific fraudulent method is described.
How can I spot it early?
The exchange involves extra service charges. You have not been told the final amount you will receive.
How do I avoid very high fees for exchanging traveller's cheques in Cameroon?
Ask for all charges and the final payout before agreeing. Avoid relying on traveller's cheques for spending money. Consider a bank ATM or an established money-transfer service instead.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the receipt. If a charge was not disclosed or agreed, raise it with the service provider.
Where in Cameroon does this happen?
Services exchanging traveller's cheques in Yaoundé. It has been reported in Yaoundé.
How common is this scam in Cameroon?
Occasional. Petty theft is common in Cameroon, and pickpockets are a particular concern in crowded parts of Yaoundé. Travellers should also watch for unwanted paid luggage help, ticket scalpers and high opening prices at markets. Shared-taxi theft, armed robbery and vehicle crime can cause more serious losses.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud once you are safe. In Limbe, visitors are specifically advised to report crimes to the police. Ask for a written record if available. Police corruption and limited effectiveness are concerns elsewhere in Cameroon. Card issuer or bank: use the bank's official app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate for a lost passport, replacement travel documents or consular support after a serious crime. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through the details on your policy. Keep receipts, incident notes and any police report for a claim. Relevant transport or service provider: raise a ticket problem, disputed fee or undisclosed charge through the provider's official customer-service channel. Keep proof of payment.
Reviewed by @snuck