Street Scams in Prague, Czech Republic
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Prague — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Mykonos, Barcelona, and Krakow.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
3
Street Scams Scams
12
Total in Prague
How it works
On Prague's crowded trams (particularly lines 22 and 17 along the tourist corridor from Vinohrady through Mala Strana) and at busy metro interchange stations like Muzeum and Mustek, coordinated teams of 2-3 operate a relay method: one member creates a distraction or jostles the target at the doors, a second lifts the wallet or phone, and a third takes the item off the vehicle before the victim realizes anything is missing. The exchanges are practiced and take under 10 seconds. Peak risk is during rush hour and when tourist-heavy trams are standing-room-only.
How it works
Men claiming to be plainclothes police approach tourists near Old Town Square, claiming to be checking for counterfeit money or drugs. They inspect wallets, note currency amounts, and may take money claiming it is "suspicious."
How it works
Men posing as plainclothes police flash unofficial-looking ID badges and demand to inspect your wallet for counterfeit currency, using the opportunity to steal cash or note your PIN for later ATM fraud.
See all scams in Prague
12 total warnings across all categories