Question 1

What is the "Fake Police Officer Inspection" scam in Rome?

Accepted Answer

Plainclothes individuals approach tourists claiming to be police officers or anti-fraud agents, often flashing fake badges. They claim to be investigating counterfeit currency, drug trafficking, or illegal vendors in the area and ask to inspect your wallet or passport. During the "inspection," they steal cash or memorize card details. Some now wear fake official vests and pretend to radio their station to appear more credible. Real Italian police do not conduct random cash inspections of tourists on the street. If approached, refuse politely and insist on being taken to the nearest official police station (questura) to conduct any check. Never hand over your wallet, passport, or any card to someone approaching you unsolicited on the street.

Question 2

What is the "Friendship Bracelet Forced Gift" scam in Rome?

Accepted Answer

Men operating near major tourist sites approach visitors and, without asking, begin tying a woven friendship bracelet onto their wrist while engaging in friendly conversation. Once the bracelet is secured, they demand €10–20 as payment for the "gift." They work in organized groups with lookouts and become aggressively persistent — following, grabbing arms, or causing a public scene — if payment is refused. Documented extensively in 2025 by multiple travel journalists and viral social media posts. Keep both hands in your pockets or held close to your body when passing known scammer areas. Firmly say "No grazie" and do not slow down or make eye contact. If a bracelet is placed on you, immediately remove it and hand it back — you owe nothing.

Question 3

What is the "Fake Petition at Major Sights" scam in Rome?

Accepted Answer

Groups of children or young people approach tourists near the Colosseum and Roman Forum with clipboards, asking for signatures for deaf rights or similar causes. While tourists' attention is on the board, wallets and phones are stolen. Ignore clipboard-wielding groups near all tourist sites. If approached, keep moving and repeat "no" firmly. Never stop to engage — the petition itself is the distraction, not the cause.

Question 4

What is the "Three-Shell Game near Colosseum" scam in Rome?

Accepted Answer

The classic shell game is operated by gangs near the Colosseum and Forum area. Shills win visibly to attract bets. Any tourist who bets loses; the ball is palmed between movements. Walk away immediately from any street gambling. Never bet money on a street game.

Question 5

What is the "Trevi Fountain Rose Seller" scam in Rome?

Accepted Answer

Men near the Trevi Fountain offer single roses to couples, then demand $20–30 once the photo is taken. If refused, they make a scene and may follow couples aggressively to embarrass them into paying. Firmly decline any item offered by street sellers. If a rose is handed to your partner, hand it back immediately before any photo is taken. A polite but definitive "no grazie" while walking away is all that is needed.

Street Scams in Rome

Fake Police Officer Inspection

Friendship Bracelet Forced Gift

Fake Petition at Major Sights

Three-Shell Game near Colosseum

Trevi Fountain Rose Seller

Experienced a scam here?