Question 1

What is the "Currency Exchange Shortchanging on Avenida 18 de Julio" scam in Montevideo?

Accepted Answer

At informal currency exchange booths and among street changers operating near Avenida 18 de Julio and the Mercado Ferrando area, visitors exchanging US dollars or Argentine pesos are shortchanged through sleight of hand or miscounted bundles. A common technique involves the exchanger counting the bills openly before handing them over, then palming several notes in the final exchange. The rate offered is typically better than official rates as an initial lure. Use only official casas de cambio with signage and receipts, or withdraw Uruguayan pesos from a Banred or Redbanc ATM inside a bank. Count your bills yourself at the counter before walking away, and never exchange money with individuals approaching you on the street.

Question 2

What is the "Counterfeit Bills in Change" scam in Montevideo?

Accepted Answer

Taxi drivers and market vendors sometimes include fake 200 or 500 Uruguayan peso notes in change, which are refused by shops and banks. Familiarize yourself with Uruguayan peso security features. Check large notes under light before accepting them as change.

Question 3

What is the "Peso-Dollar Confusion at Cambio Counters" scam in Montevideo?

Accepted Answer

Some informal money changers and even a few licensed cambio houses near the Old City give change in Uruguayan pesos when tourists expect Argentine pesos, or vice versa, relying on the visitor being unfamiliar with the different notes. The rate difference is significant: Argentine pesos are worth far less than Uruguayan pesos. In busy periods, staff may count bills rapidly to prevent careful examination. Identify the currency by the word on the note before counting: Uruguayan notes say Banco Central del Uruguay, Argentine notes say Banco Central de la República Argentina. Count all change slowly before leaving the counter.

Money & ATM Scams in Montevideo

Currency Exchange Shortchanging on Avenida 18 de Julio

Counterfeit Bills in Change

Peso-Dollar Confusion at Cambio Counters

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