Menu
Ireland
14 scams
Ireland is an enchanting place to visit. Here you can explore Irish castles, medieval architecture, Celtic art and take in a pint or two during St. Patrick’s Day or at a local pub!
That said, there are some tourist targeted scams and petty crime to watch out for.
Emergency numbers
- Emergency: 112 or 999
- Irish Tourist Assistance Service (for victims of crime): If using local phone number: 1890 365 700; email: [email protected]
Taxi scams in Ireland
6 0How it works: In 2017, the gardai (police) set up check points near Dublin Airport and found dozens of taxis taking tourists on a longer route or detour to inflate…
Read more…
Sob story scammer in Ireland
5 0How it works: There is a very infamous South African scammer by the fake name of Shaun Cash. He tells you a sob story, asks for money and adds you…
Read more…
Petition charity scam in Ireland
5 0How it works: Found all over Western Europe, someone acting deaf and mute will push a clipboard into your face, asking you to sign the form on it to donate…
Read more…
Train seat tissue packet scam in Ireland
3 0How it works: Scammers pre-place tissue packets on train seats. If you touch it, they will heckle you aggressively to pay for it, especially if it’s squeezed or damaged. Places…
Read more…
Gallarus Oratory parking scam in Ireland
2 0How it works: There are signs indicating “free parking” which will bring you to the privately owned visitor centre, where you will be charged 3 Euros to be able to…
Read more…
Restaurant scams in Ireland
2 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: at restaurants/food outlets, by…
Read more…
Snatch thefts in Ireland
2 0How it works: Two versions: strike and run; distract and grab. Possible scenarios: Streets: gangs of young men in shiny tracksuit buttons, white sneakers and baseball caps have been reported…
Read more…
Pickpockets in Ireland
2 0How it works: They work in a gang – one onlooker, one blocks/pushes/distracts/engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a cover (e.g. jacket/newspaper) and escapes. Places…
Read more…
Italian suit scam in Ireland
2 0How it works: Opening: a well-dressed Italian introduces himself as an Italian designer or someone who works for Armani and is here for a trade show. Set-up: he will ask you…
Read more…
Horse carriage scam in Ireland
2 0How it works: Version 1: at the end, you are told that the price is for each person, not per ride. Version 2: you are told that no taxis or…
Read more…