Common tourist scams in Paris

Is Paris safe for tourists? Like any big city, Paris does have a lot of scams targeting tourists. I’ve been to Paris multiple times and have witnessed and experienced these myself. BUT, don’t let this deter you! Once you read this blog and know what to expect, you can avoid them easily and enjoy your Paris trip!

The sign-up donation scam
In this scam, the scammer will approach you and ask if you would sign their clipboard in support of some cause. You start to sign the petition with your name, email etc and then you see it asks for a donation amount. Other times, they will straight-up ask if you want to donate an amount to their charity. But here’s the thing - they’re not part of a registered charity at all! I hate to generalise, but often those doing this particular scam are young Romani women. They’re absolutely everywhere across Paris - including right at the airport when you arrive. 

The friendship bracelet scam
This scam targets tourists especially around the base up to the Sacré-Cœur Cathedral in Montmartre. More often than not, it will be men, and they will strike up a conversation with you as a means to grab your hand. Before you know it, they’re knotting a friendship bracelet on your wrist. Once it’s on, they ask for payment - with the hopes that you feel obliged or scared into paying for it. Often they might not be asking for much, so if you’d rather pay, that’s fine. But if not, avoid conversing with strangers in this area, keep your hands close and simply give them a polite smile and move past. If they do try to grab your hand, give a polite but firm “non”. 

This is a tricky one as often scammers like these are migrants from struggling countries and I am sure it’s tough to eke out a living in a city like Paris. On the other hand, you’ll see other migrants selling tourist souvenirs, drinks and other small items for cheap around the main sites. These sellers are not aggressive and don’t invade your personal space. The same can NOT be said for the bracelet scammers. 

The cup scam
Around the Eiffel Tower and other key sites in Paris you will see classic scam “games” like “guess which cup the ball is under”. It’s fun, draws a crowd, and often you will see people winning. But, guess what? These people are plants who are in on the scam. Don’t waste your money. Unlike the bracelet scam which might be a few euros, I’ve seen tourists in Paris losing 20, 50, 100 euros on these games!

A reminder
Tourist scams in Paris are to be expected, just like in any popular travel destinations. Locals and police know who they are and will often shoo them away or warn you. Just be smart, ignore them, exercise common sense and focus on enjoying your trip in Paris. 

Have you come across other scams in Paris? Or maybe elsewhere in Europe? Comment below and share you experience