Scam in UkraineOn the street
Wallet or found-money scam in Ukraine
How it works
Someone draws you into an encounter involving a wallet or money they claim to have found. They use the encounter to scam you. The exact payment demand or accusation is not described.
Warning signs
- A stranger approaches you about a wallet.
- Someone announces that they have just found money and tries to involve you.
How to avoid it
- Do not handle the wallet or money.
- Decline the conversation and walk away if safe.
- Keep your own wallet out of sight.
If it happens to you
Disengage if safe. Say that you want to call your embassy or resolve the matter at the next police station.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Avoid chasing anyone or escalating a confrontation.
- Check what is missing. If cards or your phone were stolen, contact the relevant providers and secure your accounts.
- Save receipts, messages and transaction records. Write down the time, location and a description of what happened.
- Report the scam or theft to police. Request a report or reference number for insurance or bank claims.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing, you are detained or you need help finding assistance.
- Contact your insurer and card issuer where relevant. If fake alcohol may have caused poisoning, seek urgent medical help.
Questions
What is the wallet or found-money scam scam in Ukraine?
Someone draws you into an encounter involving a wallet or money they claim to have found. They use the encounter to scam you. The exact payment demand or accusation is not described.
How can I spot it early?
A stranger approaches you about a wallet. Someone announces that they have just found money and tries to involve you.
How do I avoid wallet or found-money scam in Ukraine?
Do not handle the wallet or money. Decline the conversation and walk away if safe. Keep your own wallet out of sight.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Disengage if safe. Say that you want to call your embassy or resolve the matter at the next police station.
Where in Ukraine does this happen?
Streets and tourist areas in Kyiv. It has been reported in Kyiv.
How common is this scam in Ukraine?
Common. Tourist scams and robberies are fairly common in Ukraine, especially in Kyiv, where pickpocketing and the wallet or found-money scam are concerns. Other risks include dishonest currency exchanges, fake police, baggage theft and fake alcohol; petty crime is described as lower in Lviv. Ukraine is at war, so this scam guide does not cover all travel risks.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery or fraud at a police station. Bring any receipts, messages and transaction details, and request a report reference. Police online: report suspected official corruption online. No reporting address is provided. Your embassy or consulate: use the contact details and emergency number saved before your trip. Seek help with detention, a stolen passport or serious difficulties. Card issuer or bank: use the official banking app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorized transactions. Station staff or baggage-storage staff: report missing stored baggage immediately. Provide the locker number, storage receipt and approximate time. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck