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Russia
16 scams
Russia has a rich history and culture – here, you can visit magnificent orthodox churches, top museums as well as take in a show at the majestic Bolshoi or Marinksy Theatre.
However, there are a number of potential pitfalls such as tourist targeted scams to watch out for.
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: 101
- Police: 102
- Ambulance: 103
- General emergency: 112
Travel resources
Taxi scams in Russia
6 2How it works: Taxis here do not use meters. If you do not speak Russian, you will probably be quoted an inflated flat fare. For instance, a Chilean journalist was…
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Ballet ticket rip-offs in Russia
5 1How it works: Situation: the two best theatres in Russia are the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow and the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. Tickets sell out fast due to resellers…
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Fake/overpriced amber in Russia
6 0How it works: Situation: amber is a resin of tree sap that has been fossilized over 2.5-4 millions of years and amber memorabiliais popular as a souvenir. Set-up: however, most…
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Photo taking scams in Russia
6 1How it works: Version 1: you may encounter people dressed in costumes (e.g. as Catherine and Peter at St. Isaac’s Cathedral) who pose with you seemingly for free or jump…
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Unlicensed taxis in Russia
5 0How it works: Taking a ride from an unlicensed taxi puts you at risk of extortion, kidnapping and assault. Further, they probably would not have any insurance coverage. Places to…
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Would you like a drink bar scam in Russia
4 0How it works: Opening: a girl approaches, asks for directions then asks if you want to get drinks together at her favourite bars in the area. Set-up: at the bar,…
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Pickpockets in Russia
3 0How 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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Fake alcoholic drinks in Russia
3 0How it works: Situation: this has been going on for years. 2006: police raided a warehouse in Voronezh: vodka was found to contain brake fluid, anti-corrosion solution and cologne! Then,…
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Unofficial guides in Russia
3 0How it works: Opening: while queuing at tourist attractions, unofficial guides claiming to have a genuine tourist license will offer to bring you around or to help you skip the…
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Tour operator scams in Russia
2 1How it works: Version 1 (typical fraudulent operators): the standard practice include offering low price tours to tempt and getting you to then pay upfront. Once you do, the operator…
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Restaurant scams in Russia
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: Version 1: charging a…
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Drink spiking in Russia
2 0How it works: There have been reports of tourists who find their drinks spiked with drugs (GHB in particular) causing them to pass out. They are then robbed or assaulted….
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SIM card scam in Russia
2 0How it works: During the 2018 World Cup in Russia, there were individuals posing as staff of the telecoms company MTS selling used/lowest-tier SIM cards to visitors at premium prices….
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Money exchange scam in Russia
2 0How it works: Situation: there are reports of scams when dealing with money exchange street booths and individuals who ply the streets. Scam 1: using a rigged calculator. Scam 2:…
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Fake ticket officials/inspectors in Russia
2 0How it works: Fake officials: scammers in uniform offer to escort you to the right platform, then ask for a 1,000 RUB fee. Fake ticket inspectors:they find fault with your…
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