Question 1

What is the "Card Cloning and PIN Re-Entry Fraud in Old Town Bars" scam in Riga?

Accepted Answer

The UK FCDO specifically warns that tourists drinking in Riga bars and nightclubs have later found fraudulent transactions on their cards after staff took the card out of sight or asked them to re-enter their PIN claiming the first payment failed. Canadian government advice echoes this, warning of compromised keypads and irregular card readers in Latvian venues, and TripAdvisor Riga forum threads describe cards being charged far more than purchased or used later for online purchases. Unlike simple bill-padding, the goal is harvesting card data for repeat charges after you leave the venue. Never let your card leave your sight in any Riga bar; tap-to-pay from your phone with a virtual card number where possible. Refuse any request to re-enter your PIN for a 'failed' transaction, ask for a printed receipt, and turn on instant transaction notifications before a night out. Check statements the next morning and freeze the card at the first unknown charge.

Question 2

What is the "Unofficial Currency Exchange Shortchange" scam in Riga?

Accepted Answer

Street-level money changers operating informally near the Central Market and in Old Town offer exchange rates above official rates to attract tourists, then use sleight of hand to shortchange customers during the count, or quote one rate verbally and apply a worse rate in the transaction. Latvia uses the Euro so any offer to exchange Lats (the pre-2014 currency) is a straightforward fraud. Use only bank ATMs or official exchange bureaux with posted rates and receipts. Never exchange money with individuals on the street. If anyone mentions Latvian Lats, walk away immediately — Latvia has used the Euro since 2014.

Question 3

What is the "ATM Skimming and Card Fraud" scam in Riga?

Accepted Answer

Standalone ATMs in the Old Town and near the Central Market have been targeted with card skimming devices. Card fraud is also reported at some bars and restaurants where cards are taken away from the table for processing. Use ATMs inside bank branches only. Cover your PIN with your other hand. At restaurants, insist the card terminal is brought to your table — never hand your card to staff who walk away with it. Check your statements daily while in Riga.

Money & ATM Scams in Riga

Card Cloning and PIN Re-Entry Fraud in Old Town Bars

Unofficial Currency Exchange Shortchange

ATM Skimming and Card Fraud

Experienced a scam here?