Question 1

What is the "Fake Police Officer Wallet Inspection" scam in Paris?

Accepted Answer

Con artists posing as plainclothes police officers approach tourists on the Metro or near major landmarks, flash a fake or real-looking badge, and demand to inspect wallets, phones, or bags for "counterfeit currency." Accomplices watch nearby and distract or block exits while cash and cards are stolen or switched. Victims are often too intimidated to refuse. Multiple TripAdvisor threads and the US State Department advisory confirm this as an active and ongoing scam in Paris. Real French police (Police Nationale) always wear uniforms when stopping members of the public on the street or Metro. If someone in plainclothes claims to be police, insist on going to the nearest police station (commissariat) to resolve any issue. Never hand over your wallet — offer only your passport or ID card. Call 17 if you feel threatened.

Question 2

What is the "Pickpockets on the Metro" scam in Paris?

Accepted Answer

Organized pickpocket gangs operate heavily on RER B from CDG airport, Metro lines 1 and 6 (tourist lines), and at Châtelet-Les Halles. They target distracted tourists with luggage and phones out. Keep bags in front of your body on the Metro. Put your phone in a zipped pocket. Be especially alert at heavily-used transfer stations. On the RER from the airport, sit in the middle of carriages and keep luggage between your feet.

Other Tourist Scams in Paris

Fake Police Officer Wallet Inspection

Pickpockets on the Metro

Experienced a scam here?