Question 1

What is the "Fake Petition Charity Clipboard Scam" scam in Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

Scammers, often working in pairs, approach tourists with official-looking clipboards and ask them to sign a petition for a cause such as children's charity or disability rights. After signing, they pressure you aggressively for a cash donation. The organization is fake. Never sign petitions from street solicitors. Politely say no thank you and keep moving without breaking stride. Legitimate charities do not solicit this way on the National Mall.

Question 2

What is the "Metro Phone Snatching" scam in Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

Thieves target distracted riders on the DC Metro, particularly on the Red Line between Gallery Place-Chinatown and Union Station stations during rush hour. A thief will wait near the doors and snatch a phone from a passenger's hand just as the doors are closing, then exit the car. The crime is difficult to prevent once underway because the train departs before the victim can react. Keep your phone in a pocket or bag while riding the Metro, especially near the doors. If you must use your phone, stand or sit away from the doors and keep a firm grip. Be especially alert in the final seconds before doors close.

Question 3

What is the "Fake Monk Bracelet Scam" scam in Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

Individuals dressed in Buddhist monk robes approach tourists on the National Mall and near major monuments. They slide a beaded bracelet onto your wrist as a gift, then aggressively demand a cash donation. This is an organized operation, not real monks. Do not accept any item placed on your body or handed to you by a stranger. Politely decline and keep walking. If a bracelet is forced onto your wrist, remove it immediately and hand it back.

Question 4

What is the "Three-Card Monte / Shell Game" scam in Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

A classic street con documented by the DC Metropolitan Police Department. A dealer uses sleight of hand with three cards or shells, and planted shills pretend to win to lure spectators into betting. The mark can never win. Common in tourist-heavy areas near monuments. Never bet money on street games of chance. The game is rigged. Walk away regardless of how easy it looks. Shill players in the crowd are part of the act.

Question 5

What is the "Unsolicited Free CD Pressure Scam" scam in Washington DC?

Accepted Answer

An individual claiming to be an aspiring musician hands you a CD as a free gift, sometimes autographing it on the spot to make it feel personal. The moment you accept it, they demand payment and become aggressive or block your path if you refuse. Do not accept any item handed to you unsolicited on the street. If someone places a CD in your hands, hand it back immediately. Say no thank you firmly and keep walking.

Street Scams in Washington DC

Fake Petition Charity Clipboard Scam

Metro Phone Snatching

Fake Monk Bracelet Scam

Three-Card Monte / Shell Game

Unsolicited Free CD Pressure Scam

Experienced a scam here?