Question 1

What is the "Fake Police Checkpoint" scam in Bucharest?

Accepted Answer

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers approach tourists asking to inspect their passports and wallets for counterfeit currency. Real Romanian police do not carry out random wallet checks on tourists. Decline any request to show your wallet. Ask to be taken to the nearest police station and contact the real police if harassed.

Question 2

What is the "Phone Snatching Near Tourist Areas" scam in Bucharest?

Accepted Answer

Motorcyclists or cyclists in the Old Town area snatch phones being held out for photography or GPS navigation, especially at night. The phone is gone before you can react. Keep your phone in your pocket when not actively using it. Use a phone lanyard or wrist strap in crowded areas.

Question 3

What is the "Stray Puppy Distraction Theft" scam in Bucharest?

Accepted Answer

A common street scam in Bucharest's pedestrianized zones, particularly along Calea Victoriei and around Piața Română, involves a distraction using a stray or planted puppy. One person encourages tourists to hold or photograph the dog while an accomplice pickpockets wallets, phones, or cameras from unzipped bags. The setup is convincing because Bucharest genuinely has stray dogs, making the scenario feel natural. Keep bags zipped and positioned in front of your body in crowded pedestrian areas. Be especially vigilant when a stranger draws your attention to an animal or object on the ground. Politely decline any unsolicited invitations to interact.

Street Scams in Bucharest

Fake Police Checkpoint

Phone Snatching Near Tourist Areas

Stray Puppy Distraction Theft

Experienced a scam here?