Question 1

What is the "SEPTA Market-Frankford Line Phone Snatch" scam in Philadelphia?

Accepted Answer

On the Market-Frankford El (the elevated and subway sections of SEPTA's Blue Line), thieves target riders who are visibly using smartphones near the doors, particularly in the moments just before doors close at stations. A person will grab the phone and exit or remain on the train as doors close, leaving the victim with no recourse. The stretch between 69th Street Terminal and 30th Street Station sees the most incidents, with particular concentration around the Frankford Transportation Center and Kensington stops. Keep your phone pocketed or held firmly with both hands when near train doors. Avoid standing close to the doors while using your phone. Be especially alert in the final seconds before doors close, and use a wrist strap or phone grip if you frequently use your phone while commuting.

Question 2

What is the "SEPTA Fare Card Loading Scam" scam in Philadelphia?

Accepted Answer

Near busy Center City SEPTA stations, scammers offer to help load value onto SEPTA Key cards. They take your card and cash, load a minimal amount or nothing, and pocket the difference. Variants include selling pre-loaded cards that are actually empty. Load your SEPTA Key card yourself at official kiosks or the SEPTA sales office. Do not hand your card to strangers. Purchase cards only from official sources.

Other Tourist Scams in Philadelphia

SEPTA Market-Frankford Line Phone Snatch

SEPTA Fare Card Loading Scam

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