Street Scams in New York, USA
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in New York — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Las Vegas, Miami, and New Orleans.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
7
Street Scams Scams
10
Total in New York
How it works
Operators run a shell game on folding tables near tourist-heavy areas like Times Square and Midtown. Shills in the crowd pretend to win to lure tourists into betting. The dealer controls the outcome and tourists never win once real money is on the table.
How it works
Street performers near Times Square and popular tourist spots approach tourists claiming to be up-and-coming musicians, hand them a free CD, then aggressively demand $20-$40 in payment and refuse to take the CD back. They may follow or block your path if you try to leave.
How it works
Individuals with official-looking clipboards and vests approach tourists near major attractions claiming to collect donations for deaf children, homeless veterans, or disaster relief. The organizations are fake and the money goes directly to the solicitor.
How it works
Costumed characters (Elmo, Spiderman, Minnie Mouse) near Times Square insist on photos with tourists, then demand $20–40 per person per character when multiple characters surround the group. Aggressive tactics are used when tourists refuse.
How it works
The classic shell game is run near Times Square and Penn Station with shills winning to attract tourists. The game is entirely rigged through sleight of hand. Tourists who think they've spotted the winning card consistently lose.
How it works
Men near Times Square and near the Apollo Theater in Harlem hand tourists a CD claiming it is a free gift from their music group. Once accepted, they demand $10–30 for the "free" album and become aggressive when refused.
How it works
Men in saffron robes near Times Square, Grand Central, and Central Park hand tourists small medallions, cards, or beads, then show donation books with amounts of $20–100. They do not leave until paid.
See all scams in New York
10 total warnings across all categories