Street Scams in Dublin, Ireland
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Dublin — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Mykonos, Barcelona, and Krakow.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
3
Street Scams Scams
11
Total in Dublin
How it works
Dublin's busiest tourist zones — Grafton Street, Temple Bar, and O'Connell Street — are prime pickpocketing spots. Thieves work in groups, using distractions like bumping into you or asking for directions while an accomplice takes your wallet or phone.
How it works
Individuals — sometimes working in pairs — approach tourists on Grafton Street or around St. Stephen's Green with clipboards, requesting signatures for a petition or charity donation. While the tourist's attention is on the clipboard, an accomplice moves in from behind or the side to lift wallets, phones, or unzipped bags. Some operatives also pressure tourists into making on-the-spot cash donations before walking away.
How it works
Street sellers in tourist areas approach visitors claiming to be selling authentic ancient Irish coins, jewelry, or artifacts at a bargain price. The items are worthless fakes.
See all scams in Dublin
11 total warnings across all categories