Question 1

What is the "Fake Monk Donation Scam" scam in Boston?

Accepted Answer

Individuals dressed in orange Buddhist robes approach tourists at Faneuil Hall Marketplace and other high-traffic areas, pressing small trinkets into visitors' hands as a gift, then aggressively requesting cash donations. Faneuil Hall has posted official signage warning visitors about this group, which operates in coordinated teams. Do not accept unsolicited items from strangers. If handed something, return it immediately without making eye contact or engaging. Walk away without giving money.

Question 2

What is the "Aggressive Charity Clipboard Solicitation" scam in Boston?

Accepted Answer

Near the entrance to the Boston Public Garden, the Prudential Center, and Copley Square, individuals with clipboards and lanyards approach tourists claiming to collect signatures and donations for local charities or children's causes. Once someone stops and signs, the solicitor pressures them into a recurring monthly donation via credit card, discouraging one-time cash contributions. Many of these operations are not registered Massachusetts nonprofits and the majority of funds go to the solicitation company rather than any charitable cause. Decline politely and keep walking — stopping almost always leads to a high-pressure donation pitch. Legitimate registered charities operating in public can be verified on the Massachusetts Attorney General's charity registration database. Never give credit card details on the street.

Question 3

What is the "Faneuil Hall Shell Game and Street Gambling" scam in Boston?

Accepted Answer

Shell game operators and three-card monte dealers set up near Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market, particularly on summer weekends and during Celtics and Red Sox game days. The games are rigged, with shills in the crowd placed to make winning look achievable. Players who do win an initial round are encouraged to bet larger amounts before consistently losing. Boston police periodically clear these operations but they return quickly. Never participate in street gambling regardless of how simple the game appears or how many bystanders seem to be winning. Winning streaks you witness are orchestrated by accomplices. Move away from the crowd and do not stop to watch.

Street Scams in Boston

Fake Monk Donation Scam

Aggressive Charity Clipboard Solicitation

Faneuil Hall Shell Game and Street Gambling

Experienced a scam here?