Question 1

What is the "Stari Most Bridge Diver Betting Scam" scam in Mostar?

Accepted Answer

Handlers on the famous bridge take bets from tourists on whether the diver will jump. Whether the dive happens depends on what people bet — it's a rigged system designed to extract money. Watch the diver from a distance without engaging with handlers. If you want to tip a legitimate diver, do so directly after a completed jump.

Question 2

What is the "Camera Drop Scam" scam in Mostar?

Accepted Answer

A local asks you to photograph them around the Old Bridge area, then deliberately drops the camera on return and blames you for the damage, demanding payment. Decline to handle strangers' cameras. Offer to take photos on your own phone instead.

Question 3

What is the "Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas" scam in Mostar?

Accepted Answer

Pickpockets work the crowded Kujundžiluk bazaar and bridge viewpoints, especially when tourists are distracted taking photos of the iconic arch. Keep valuables in front pockets or a zipped crossbody bag. Be especially alert when stopping to take photos in busy areas.

Question 4

What is the "Counterfeit Copper Souvenir Goods on Kujundžiluk Bazaar" scam in Mostar?

Accepted Answer

In the Kujundžiluk (Coppersmith Street) bazaar, vendors sell items presented as hand-hammered Bosnian copper — trays, coffee sets, decorative plates, and jewellery. Many items are mass-produced imports from China or Turkey with a copper-coloured coating that wears away within weeks. Vendors display one genuine hand-crafted piece prominently but fulfil orders with the cheaper substitute kept behind the counter. Prices are quoted as if for authentic artisan work. Look for the visible hammering marks and slight irregularities that indicate genuine hand-worked copper. Ask whether the item was made locally and request to see the full set rather than the display piece. Compare prices across multiple stalls before buying, and be sceptical of any vendor who produces your chosen item instantly from a large identical stack.

Street Scams in Mostar

Stari Most Bridge Diver Betting Scam

Camera Drop Scam

Pickpocketing in Crowded Areas

Counterfeit Copper Souvenir Goods on Kujundžiluk Bazaar

Experienced a scam here?