Other Tourist Scams in Bruges

Fake Plainclothes Police Wallet Check

In tourist-heavy parts of Bruges—particularly near the Markt and the train station—individuals pose as plainclothes police officers and approach tourists citing a "local drug investigation" or "counterfeit currency alert." They show a badge (often a cheap replica or foreign police ID) and ask to inspect your wallet and passport for counterfeit bills. Real Belgian police do not conduct surprise wallet inspections on the street; this interaction is designed to either steal cash directly or distract while an accomplice picks your bag.