Question 1

What is the "Short-Changing in Egyptian Pounds at Bazaars" scam in Aswan?

Accepted Answer

Vendors and money changers in the Aswan bazaar short-change tourists by returning smaller denominations or miscounting notes quickly. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that new and old Egyptian pound notes of different values look similar to unfamiliar visitors. Some vendors also claim they have no change to extract round-up payments on small purchases. Familiarize yourself with Egyptian banknote denominations before shopping. Count change carefully before leaving the stall. Carry small denominations to avoid needing change, and use a money belt rather than pulling out large amounts of cash.

Question 2

What is the "Banknote Sleight-of-Hand at Markets" scam in Aswan?

Accepted Answer

A distinct scam from simple short-changing, this involves vendors and informal money changers using sleight of hand to physically swap a high-value Egyptian pound note for a near-identical low-value note during a cash transaction. The most reported version involves substituting a 50-pound note for a 50-piastre note — both featuring similar coloring in older print runs — or palming a 200-pound note and replacing it with a 20-pound note while counting change. Multiple TripAdvisor threads specific to Aswan document tourists handing over what they believed was a standard note only to be told by the vendor they had paid the wrong amount. Count your money carefully before handing it over, and do so in good light. Hand over exact amounts where possible to avoid change transactions. Never allow a vendor to take your notes and count them — keep all notes in your own hands during the transaction. Use ATMs at recognized banks rather than informal exchange points.

Money & ATM Scams in Aswan

Short-Changing in Egyptian Pounds at Bazaars

Banknote Sleight-of-Hand at Markets

Experienced a scam here?