Imagine you’re sightseeing in a beautiful European city, and a man approaches you flashing a badge. He claims to be an undercover police officer and asks to see your passport or wallet. What would you do?
How the Scam Works
Scammers dress up like local police officers or detectives. They may:
Flash a fake badge
Claim there’s been a drug problem in the area
Ask to check your identification or currency
Once you hand over your wallet or passport, they may:
Steal cash while pretending to inspect it
Walk away with your ID
Work in teams to distract and rob you
What to Do If Approached
Here are smart steps to avoid being scammed:
Ask for a police station ID number or call the emergency line.
Never hand over your wallet — offer to show ID from a distance.
Stay in public view. Don’t follow them into alleys or side streets.
Where This Scam is Common
Barcelona
Rome
Bangkok
Paris
Final Advice
Always keep your valuables secure, avoid handing over personal belongings to anyone claiming authority without full proof, and report suspicious encounters to the real police immediately.
