Question 1

What is the "Counterfeit pesos from informal 'blue dollar' exchange" scam in Salta?

Accepted Answer

Informal money changers (cuevas, hotel contacts and street touts) offering the attractive 'dolar blue' rate slip high-quality counterfeit peso notes into the bundle, knowing tourists rarely check unfamiliar bills before walking away with their cash. Exchange only at established casas de cambio or reputable cuevas recommended by your accommodation, count and inspect every note yourself, and feel for the raised lettering and the transparent window/watermark before handing over your dollars.

Question 2

What is the "Banknote switcheroo / short-count when paying" scam in Salta?

Accepted Answer

A taxi driver, market vendor or money changer takes your real peso note, flicks it, and hands back a counterfeit claiming it's fake or they have no change, or counts a large stack of low-value notes quickly and slips out several so you receive less than agreed. Pay with small denominations when possible, watch the note leave your hand, and recount any change or exchanged cash slowly in front of the person before you leave or close the door.

Question 3

What is the "ATM 'pay in your home currency' (DCC) markup" scam in Salta?

Accepted Answer

ATMs in Salta prompt you to be charged in your home currency instead of pesos; accepting this 'dynamic currency conversion' applies the machine operator's poor exchange rate plus a hidden markup on top of the already low withdrawal cap and fixed fee. Always choose to be charged in Argentine pesos, decline the conversion offer, withdraw the maximum allowed to spread the fixed fee, and prefer ATMs inside bank branches during the day.

Money & ATM Scams in Salta

Counterfeit pesos from informal 'blue dollar' exchange

Banknote switcheroo / short-count when paying

ATM 'pay in your home currency' (DCC) markup

Experienced a scam here?