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Belgium
10 scams
Here in Belgium, you can see historical landmarks, medieval towns, beautiful canals and enjoy some of the finest chocolates and golden fries washed down with the best Trappist beers.
That said, there are petty crime and some tourist targeted scams to watch out for here.
Note: vast majority of trips are trouble free and there is no need to be paranoid. That said, it always pays to be aware, careful, and prepared.
Emergency numbers
- Fire, ambulance, police: 112
Travel resources
Pickpockets in Belgium
5 3How it works: Version 1: they work in a gang – one onlooker, one blocks, pushes, distracts, or engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a…
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Gold ring scam in Belgium
4 0How it works: A scammer finds a gold ring on the floor, asks if it’s yours. If you say no, the scammer will give it you as a gift, then…
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Petition charity scam in Belgium
4 0How it works: Opening: scammers posing acting deaf and mute ask you to sign a petition. Set-up: the petition will contain pre-filled fake names and donation amounts. If you sign,…
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Fake police in Belgium
1 0How it works: Opening: a scammer posing as a tourist asks you for directions or for help in taking a photo. Set-up: next, accomplices posing as fake police officers accuse…
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Fake diamonds in Belgium
2 0How it works: Version 1: selling treated diamonds instead of natural ones; non-certified diamonds (GIA/HRD); fake diamonds (made of cubic zirconium or metal). Version 2: hiding problems with the diamonds….
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Unlicensed taxis in Belgium
1 0How it works: Some are fine but some will overcharge you with inflated flat fares. Places to beware: Brussels: Brussels Midi Station What to do: Situation: they may be fine,…
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Restaurant scams in Belgium
1 0How it works: Situation: Most food places are fine, it’s generally just a few bad eggs around touristy areas that spoil it for the rest. Set-up: Version 1: overcharging (e.g….
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Taxi scams in Belgium
1 0How it works: Version 1: “forgetting” to turn on the meter and then charging an inflated flat fare. Version 2: at the airport, claiming that a shuttle is cancelled, and…
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Sob story scammers in Belgium
1 1How it works: Street: a scammer claims to have been robbed or have a family member who has fell ill, and asks if you have some money to spare for…
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Snatch thefts in Belgium
1 0How it works: Two versions: strike and run; distract and grab. Possible scenarios: Street, mall, shop, park, transportation hub: distracting and snatching from you, then escaping via a getaway car or…
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