Question 1

What is the "Unofficial Blue Rate Money Changers" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

Street-level arbolitos (informal money changers) approach tourists in Mendoza's central pedestrian zone offering parallel exchange rates above the official bank rate. While some transactions proceed, many involve counterfeit notes mixed into bundles, deliberate short-counts, or sleight-of-hand where pesos are palmed mid-count. During periods of Argentine economic instability the spread between official and blue rates is large, making the scam highly attractive to operators. The practice is illegal and leaves tourists with no recourse against losses. Decline all street currency exchange approaches. Use official casas de cambio with posted rates or withdraw from ATMs. If using informal channels, never allow the other party to handle the cash during counting.

Question 2

What is the "ATM Surveillance and Follow-Robbery" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

The Canadian government travel advisory for Argentina specifically warns that criminals in Mendoza surveil ATMs and currency exchange bureaus, then follow targets who have just completed a transaction. Unlike express kidnappings — which involve forced entry into a vehicle — this variant is a swift street robbery: the victim is followed on foot for a block or two until they reach a quieter spot, then robbed of the cash just withdrawn. The tactic is particularly common near the informal exchange offices (cuevas) on Peatonal Sarmiento and near supermarket ATMs in the city centre. After withdrawing money or completing a currency exchange, walk directly into a busy shop or café rather than continuing down the street. Use ATMs inside banks during business hours rather than street-facing machines. Vary your route after withdrawals and avoid counting cash at the ATM or exchange office. Travel with a companion where possible, as pairs are rarely targeted.

Question 3

What is the "Credit Card Fraud and Card Skimming" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

Credit card fraud is a documented risk in Mendoza, with multiple TripAdvisor forum reports specifically naming the city alongside Patagonian tourist areas. The most common method involves restaurant or bar staff taking the payment card away from the table for processing — during which details can be skimmed or additional charges added. A separate method involves ATM card skimming devices placed on machines in shopping centres. Fraudulent charges typically appear days or weeks after the transaction. Never allow your payment card out of your sight. Request that staff bring the card terminal to your table, or accompany them to the payment point. Use contactless payment or keep a dedicated low-balance travel card. Check your bank statements daily while in Argentina. Prefer ATMs inside bank branches during business hours over standalone mall or street machines.

Question 4

What is the "Deliberate Short-Change at Currency Exchange" scam in Mendoza?

Accepted Answer

Even at seemingly legitimate exchange offices (cuevas) along Mendoza's Peatonal Sarmiento pedestrian zone, deliberate miscounting of pesos is a documented risk. Cashiers use rapid hand movements, distraction, or bundle the notes in ways that make counting difficult, delivering consistently short amounts. Tourists unfamiliar with Argentine peso denominations — particularly given frequent changes in note values during periods of high inflation — are primary targets. This is distinct from street-level arbolito scams and occurs at fixed indoor exchange points that appear professional. Always check the current blue dollar rate before visiting any exchange office. Count every note individually before leaving the counter, and do not allow the cashier to rush you. Bring a calculator or use your phone openly to verify the total. If the count is short, point it out immediately before leaving the premises.

Money & ATM Scams in Mendoza

Unofficial Blue Rate Money Changers

ATM Surveillance and Follow-Robbery

Credit Card Fraud and Card Skimming

Deliberate Short-Change at Currency Exchange

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