Tourist Scams in Vietnam — Safety Guide 2026
Vietnam has 79+ documented tourist scams across 7 cities in our database. Scam activity is rated moderate. The most common risks are street scams, taxi & transport, tour & activities.
Overall risk
Moderate
Scams documented
79+
Cities covered
7
High severity
23
All 7 covered cities in Vietnam
Most common scam types in Vietnam
Street Scams
17 reports
Taxi & Transport
14 reports
Tour & Activities
12 reports
Money & ATM Scams
9 reports
Vietnam travel safety questions
Is Vietnam safe for tourists?
Vietnam is visited by millions of tourists every year and is generally safe with preparation. Our database documents 79+ tourist scams across 7 cities in Vietnam. Scam activity is rated moderate overall. The most common risks are street scams, taxi & transport, tour & activities scams. Reviewing the specific warnings for your destination before you travel significantly reduces your risk.
What are the most common tourist scams in Vietnam?
The most frequently documented tourist scams in Vietnam are Street Scams, Taxi & Transport, Tour & Activities, Money & ATM Scams. Ho Chi Minh City has the highest documented scam count with 18 reported incidents. Scam operators typically target tourists near transit hubs, major attractions, and busy markets.
Which city in Vietnam has the most tourist scams?
Ho Chi Minh City has the highest number of documented tourist scams in Vietnam with 18 recorded incidents in our database. Other cities with significant scam activity include Da Nang and Hanoi.
How can I stay safe from scams in Vietnam?
The most effective protection in Vietnam is knowing the specific scams used before you arrive. Key precautions: use app-based transport instead of street taxis, verify prices before agreeing to any service, keep valuables secured in crowded areas, and be cautious of unsolicited help or attention from strangers near tourist sites. Review the detailed warnings for each city you plan to visit.
Editorial note: Scam warnings for Vietnam are compiled from government travel advisories (US State Dept, UK FCDO, Australian DFAT), verified news sources, and traveler reports. Read our methodology →
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