Street Scams in Riga, Latvia
Pickpockets, distraction thieves, fake petitions, and street hustles in tourist areas. Below are the street scams scams reported in Riga — 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
10
Total in Riga
How it works
Vecriga (Old Town), the central train station, the bus station, and the Central Market are prime pickpocketing areas. Professional teams use distraction techniques — a stumble, asking for directions — while an accomplice takes wallets and phones.
How it works
Riga Central Market, housed in repurposed Zeppelin hangars on Nēģu iela, draws large crowds that pickpocket gangs exploit systematically. Operatives work in pairs or trios: one creates a distraction (bumping, dropping items, asking directions) while another lifts wallets, phones, or passports from bags and jacket pockets. The market's narrow stalls and crowded aisles make pursuit nearly impossible.
How it works
People approach tourists with clipboards or donation boxes claiming to collect for local charities, disabled individuals, or orphans. Some use official-looking printed materials. The money goes directly to the scammer.
See all scams in Riga
10 total warnings across all categories