Street Scams in Hong Kong, China
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Hong Kong — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Kyoto, Beijing, and Shanghai.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
6
Street Scams Scams
11
Total in Hong Kong
How it works
Electronics and camera shops in Tsim Sha Tsui advertise DSLR cameras and lenses at prices below market rate. When a tourist tries to purchase the item, staff claim the advertised model is sold out and aggressively push a more expensive bundle with unwanted accessories. Some shops have locked doors and refused to let customers leave until they agree to a purchase.
How it works
In Mong Kok and areas around Ladies Market, street vendors and shop touts offer to show tourists counterfeit luxury handbags, watches, and jewellery presented as authentic or high-grade replicas. Prices start low but vendors are skilled at upselling to much higher amounts, and the quality is almost always poor.
How it works
In electronics markets in Sham Shui Po and some tourist shops, counterfeit phone chargers, cables, and adapters are sold at attractive prices. These items carry no safety certification, frequently fail within days, and can pose a fire or electric shock risk.
How it works
Vendors at the Yau Ma Tei Jade Market on Battery Street sell stones advertised as genuine jade that are in fact dyed quartzite, glass, or low-grade serpentine. Sellers exploit the chaotic open-air stall layout and tourist unfamiliarity with jade grading to pass off imitations at inflated prices. Certificates of authenticity shown are often homemade and meaningless. The deception only becomes apparent when the piece is appraised elsewhere.
How it works
Markets in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po sell counterfeit designer handbags, watches, and clothing. While quality varies, items are sold as "genuine" at significant prices. Importing fakes back home can result in confiscation.
How it works
Individuals dressed as Buddhist monks approach tourists in busy areas like Mong Kok or near the Star Ferry terminal, offering a blessing and small prayer card, then requesting a donation. They are not affiliated with any monastery and target tourists specifically.
See all scams in Hong Kong
11 total warnings across all categories