Question 1

What is the "Old Quarter Shoe Repair Ambush" scam in Hanoi?

Accepted Answer

While walking in the Old Quarter, individuals crouch and begin polishing or "repairing" tourists' shoes without permission, then demand large payments for the unsolicited service. Do not stop when someone crouches near your feet. Walk away immediately if someone touches your shoes without your consent.

Question 2

What is the "Motorbike Snatch-and-Grab" scam in Hanoi?

Accepted Answer

Thieves on motorbikes target pedestrians walking along Hanoi's streets, snatching phones, handbags, cameras, and jewellery in drive-by grabs. Victims on the street or who are hailing a vehicle are specifically targeted. The US State Department, UK FCDO, and Australian Smartraveller all list motorbike snatch theft as a primary safety risk in Hanoi, with incidents reported both day and night. Carry bags on the side away from traffic and hold them firmly against your body. Keep your phone in a pocket rather than holding it while walking near roads. Never resist a snatch — injuries from being dragged are more serious than property loss. Avoid displaying cameras, expensive jewellery, or large amounts of cash on the street.

Question 3

What is the "Dong Xuan Market Counterfeit Goods Bait-and-Switch" scam in Hanoi?

Accepted Answer

Vendors at Dong Xuan Market and the surrounding streets show tourists high-quality sample goods — branded electronics, clothing, or silk — but swap them for inferior counterfeits during packaging. Payment is collected before the swap is discovered, and vendors deny any substitution. In some cases, the stall vacates the area immediately after the transaction. Inspect every item in the bag before handing over money. Do not accept sealed bags or boxes you cannot open on the spot. For any significant purchase, buy from established shops with fixed addresses rather than market stalls.

Question 4

What is the "Street Vendor Weighing Scam" scam in Hanoi?

Accepted Answer

Women carrying fruit baskets on shoulder poles invite tourists to try carrying the baskets for a photo. Once on your shoulders, the vendor demands a large fee for the photo and for touching the goods. Refusal leads to a scene. Politely decline before the basket is placed on you. Once it is on your shoulders you are considered to have agreed. Be especially cautious around Hoan Kiem Lake where these vendors congregate.

Question 5

What is the "English Practice Coffee Scam" scam in Hanoi?

Accepted Answer

University students approach tourists — typically around Hoan Kiem Lake or in the Old Quarter — claiming they need to practice their English as part of a school assignment. They invite the tourist to a nearby cafe or restaurant, where a "brother" or associate arrives selling overpriced food or drinks. The bill arrives at many times the normal rate, and it is unclear who is expected to pay. This scam is documented across TripAdvisor Hanoi forums and multiple Vietnam travel guides as a long-running and recurring tactic. Be cautious of unsolicited invitations to cafes or restaurants from strangers, even if the initial conversation feels genuine. If you do agree to have coffee with locals, choose the venue yourself and confirm prices before ordering. Check the bill carefully before paying.

Street Scams in Hanoi

Old Quarter Shoe Repair Ambush

Motorbike Snatch-and-Grab

Dong Xuan Market Counterfeit Goods Bait-and-Switch

Street Vendor Weighing Scam

English Practice Coffee Scam

Experienced a scam here?