---
title: What are common scams to watch for?
description: "[Home](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com) | [Docs](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/) | [Safety Tips](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs-category/safety-tips/) Like in many big cities, Buenos Aires has a few common scams that target tourists. Most are non-violent and rely on distraction, so staying alert is usually enough to avoid problems. Here are the…"
url: "https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/what-are-common-scams-to-watch-for/"
updated: "2025-09-22"
category: Safety Tips
---

# What are common scams to watch for?

[Home](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com) | [Docs](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/) | [Safety Tips](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs-category/safety-tips/)

Like in many big cities, Buenos Aires has a few common scams that target tourists. Most are non-violent and rely on distraction, so staying alert is usually enough to avoid problems. Here are the main ones:

## Taxi overcharging

- Some drivers take longer routes or claim the meter is broken.
- Always choose official **radio taxis** (black and yellow with company signs).
- Using [**BA Taxi**](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ar.gob.buenosaires.bataxi.pasajero&hl=en) app or **Cabify** avoids this risk.

## Fake money swap

- Vendors, taxis, or street exchangers may switch your bill for a counterfeit one and claim it’s fake.
- Only exchange money at **Western Union, banks, or official casas de cambio**.
- Use small bills for everyday purchases.

## Mustard or bird poop scam

- Someone “accidentally” spills something on you, then another person offers to clean it while an accomplice steals your belongings.
- If anything spills, step away quickly and check your bag.

## Pickpocketing & distraction

- Common in **San Telmo market, buses, Subte, and busy streets**.
- Thieves often work in pairs: one distracts, the other steals.
- Keep bags zipped and phones out of sight.

## Street petition or “help me” scams

- Someone approaches with a clipboard or papers asking you to sign something.
- While you’re distracted, an accomplice may pickpocket you.
- Politely decline and keep moving.

## Overpriced tours or fake tickets

- Unofficial sellers near tourist spots may offer tango shows, football tickets, or [day trips](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/best-day-trips-from-buenos-aires/).
- Some are overpriced or completely fake.
- Always book through **official websites, your hotel, or trusted agencies**.

## ATM skimming

- Devices may be attached to ATMs to steal card data.
- Use ATMs inside **banks, shopping malls, or hotels**, not street machines.

**Quick takeaway**: stick to official taxis or apps, [exchange money only at secure locations](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/where-can-i-exchange-money-safely/), keep valuables close, and be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help.

Here’s a practical guide for **safe money handling in Buenos Aires**, especially useful for first-time visitors:

## Currency & Exchange

- **Local currency**: Argentine Peso (ARS).
- [**Blue Dollar rate**](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/what-is-the-blue-dollar-rate-how-access/): A parallel exchange rate often much better than the official one.
- **Best option**: Use **Western Union transfers**—you’ll get close to the blue rate in pesos when you pick up cash.
- **Avoid**: Street exchangers (“arbolitos”) on Florida Street—risks of scams and counterfeit bills.

## Cash vs. Cards

- **Cash is king**: Many restaurants, shops, and taxis prefer pesos.
- **Credit cards**: Widely accepted in upscale places, but smaller shops or markets often refuse.
- **Debit cards/foreign cards**: May charge at the official rate, not the blue rate—less favorable.

## ATMs

- **High fees & low withdrawal limits**: Often not worth using for large amounts.
- **Better use**: For small emergency withdrawals only.
- **Safer ATMs**: Inside banks, shopping malls, or hotels—not on the street.

## Safety with Cash

- Carry **only what you need** for the day (around 20,000–30,000 ARS, depending on activities).
- Keep **small bills** for taxis, kiosks, and markets.
- Split money between your wallet and a hidden spot (money belt, inner pocket).

## Payments in USD

- Some [hotels and tourist services accept USD directly](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/can-i-pay-hotels-in-usd/), sometimes at a better rate.
- Always ask first—some will quote at official rate, which is worse.

## Mobile Payments

- **Mercado Pago** is very popular but usually requires an Argentine bank account.
- Tourists mostly rely on [cash + cards](https://allaboutbuenosaires.com/docs/do-i-need-cash-or-can-i-pay-by-card/).

## Key takeaway:

- Use **Western Union** or casas de cambio for pesos.
- Pay with **cash in pesos** for daily expenses.
- Save **credit cards** for big, secure purchases (hotels, flights, upscale dining).
- Avoid carrying large sums or showing money in public.