Question 1

What is the "VND Note-Switching Scam" scam in Ho Chi Minh City?

Accepted Answer

When tourists hand over a 500,000 VND note to pay at market stalls, street food vendors, or souvenir shops, the vendor palms the note and substitutes a 20,000 VND note — which is visually similar in colour — then claims the tourist gave the wrong denomination. The difference represents roughly USD 20, which is significant for a single transaction. Familiarise yourself with Vietnamese banknotes before arriving — the 500,000 VND and 20,000 VND notes are the most commonly confused. Count out notes deliberately and state the denomination aloud when handing money over. Keep small denominations separate.

Question 2

What is the "Unlicensed Street Currency Exchange" scam in Ho Chi Minh City?

Accepted Answer

Street touts near Ben Thanh Market and along Bui Vien Street offer USD-to-VND exchange rates slightly better than bank rates to attract tourists. Techniques include miscounting the Vietnamese dong stack, folding notes to hide the true quantity, or slipping in old or torn notes that local shops will refuse. Exchange currency only at licensed gold shops, bank branches, or airport counters. The legitimate rate advantage at unofficial street changers is rarely worth the risk. Count all notes carefully in a well-lit area before the exchanger leaves your sight.

Question 3

What is the "ATM Skimming and Card Cloning" scam in Ho Chi Minh City?

Accepted Answer

Card skimming devices have been reported on standalone ATMs in tourist areas of District 1, particularly machines located on quiet side streets away from bank branches. Criminals attach a card reader overlay to the slot and a pinhole camera or overlay keypad to capture PIN entries. Fraudulent withdrawals typically appear within 24–48 hours. Use only ATMs attached to bank branches on major streets such as Nguyen Hue Boulevard or in Vincom Center shopping mall on Le Thanh Ton Street. Inspect the card slot and keypad for looseness or unusual attachments before inserting your card. Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN.

Money & ATM Scams in Ho Chi Minh City

VND Note-Switching Scam

Unlicensed Street Currency Exchange

ATM Skimming and Card Cloning

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