Street Scams in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Ho Chi Minh City — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Lombok, Palawan, and Mandalay.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
4
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in Ho Chi Minh City
How it works
Riders on motorbikes target tourists walking near Ben Thanh Market, District 1, and Bui Vien Street, snatching bags, phones, and cameras from the shoulder or hand. The bikes move fast and victims are sometimes dragged.
How it works
A man approaches tourists and begins cleaning their shoes without being asked, claiming their shoes are dirty or damaged. Once the unsolicited service is "complete," he demands an exorbitant payment (200,000–500,000 VND) and becomes confrontational if refused.
How it works
Vendors inside Ben Thanh Market physically grab tourists by the arm or block their path to force attention on their stall. Some follow tourists through the market. Others name an outrageous price and then act offended when the tourist tries to leave without buying.
How it works
A person approaches and begins polishing your shoes without asking. When finished, they demand an exorbitant fee — often $20–50 USD for a $1 service. Refusal leads to aggressive harassment or following.
See all scams in Ho Chi Minh City
10 total warnings across all categories