Street Scams in Mumbai, India
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Mumbai — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like New Delhi, Jaipur, and Colombo.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
2
Street Scams Scams
11
Total in Mumbai
How it works
Touts near the Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus approach tourists claiming that a major attraction is "closed today for a government function" or "under renovation." They then offer to take visitors to an alternative site — usually a shop or overpriced private tour — collecting a commission from the business. The attraction is virtually never actually closed.
How it works
Children or adults approach tourists with packaged goods (pickle, sweets, incense) claiming to be selling for school or charity. If you buy, you may be followed by others; if you refuse, some become abusive.
See all scams in Mumbai
11 total warnings across all categories