Other Tourist Scams in Johannesburg, South Africa
Timeshares, fake police, charity fraud, and miscellaneous scams targeting visitors. Below are the other scams scams reported in Johannesburg — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Nairobi, Accra, and Arusha.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Other Scams Scams
12
Total in Johannesburg
How it works
Criminals smash car windows at traffic lights to grab bags visible on seats or in footwells. This is an extremely common crime in Johannesburg, particularly at lights near tourist areas.
How it works
Street-level or hotel-lobby sellers offer "authentic" Krugerrand gold coins or diamond rough stones at below-market prices. These are almost always fake or severely misrepresented.
See all scams in Johannesburg
12 total warnings across all categories