Question 1

What is the "Blue Dollar Exchange Shortchange" scam in Córdoba?

Accepted Answer

Argentina's unofficial "blue dollar" (dólar blue) exchange rate significantly exceeds the official bank rate, and foreign tourists commonly seek informal exchange to maximize purchasing power. In Córdoba, informal changers around the Peatonal Rivadavia and Mercado Norte use fast-count and note-substitution techniques to shortchange tourists exchanging USD or euros. Exchange currency at established casa de cambio (exchange houses) or through the Wise or Prex financial apps that offer near-blue-dollar rates legally. If using informal exchange, count every note yourself, slowly, before handing over your currency — do not allow the exchanger to touch the bundle after you have counted it.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Peso Notes" scam in Córdoba?

Accepted Answer

Counterfeit Argentine peso notes circulate in Córdoba, particularly high-denomination bills (1,000 and 2,000 ARS). Tourists receiving change from informal exchanges or street vendors are the most common victims, as fake notes are difficult to distinguish without UV verification. Check large peso notes for the security thread and color-shift ink on the denomination numeral. Use UV lights available at pharmacies and supermarkets to verify notes. Be especially careful with change received from informal transactions.

Question 3

What is the "ATM Card Trapping" scam in Córdoba?

Accepted Answer

Some ATMs in less-monitored locations in Córdoba's city center have been targeted with Lebanese loop devices that trap cards inside the machine. An individual nearby then offers to "help" retrieve the card, observing the PIN entered during the recovery attempt. Use ATMs inside bank branches during operating hours. If a card becomes stuck, do not enter your PIN again in front of bystanders — call your bank immediately. Shield the keypad when entering your PIN.

Money & ATM Scams in Córdoba

Blue Dollar Exchange Shortchange

Fake Peso Notes

ATM Card Trapping

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