Question 1

What is the "ATM Card Skimming Near Gamla Stan" scam in Stockholm?

Accepted Answer

Card skimming devices have been reported on ATMs in the high-tourist-traffic area of Gamla Stan and around T-Centralen (Central Station). Criminals attach a thin overlay to the card slot and a pinhole camera or fake keypad to capture PIN numbers. Victims typically do not notice the fraud until unauthorized transactions appear days later. Use ATMs attached to the exterior walls of major banks such as Swedbank, Handelsbanken, or Nordea, and check for any loose or unusual attachments around the card slot before inserting your card. Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. Contactless payment via phone or card is safer than using ATMs at standalone kiosks.

Question 2

What is the "Fake Charity Collectors Demanding Large Notes" scam in Stockholm?

Accepted Answer

Individuals dressed in vests or carrying clipboards approach tourists on Drottninggatan and around Gamla Stan claiming to collect for a charity and request a donation. After a visitor commits to giving, the collector steers them toward donating a 100 or 200 SEK note rather than coins, sometimes retaining change owed. The organisations named are either fabricated or have no licensed street fundraising permit. Sweden requires registered organisations to carry a permit (Länsstyrelsen authorisation) for street collections. Donate only to collectors who can show a current Länsstyrelsen collection permit and a printed organisational ID. Better still, decline politely and donate directly to verified charities online. Never hand over a note larger than 20 SEK to a street collector.

Money & ATM Scams in Stockholm

ATM Card Skimming Near Gamla Stan

Fake Charity Collectors Demanding Large Notes

Experienced a scam here?