Pickpocket & DistractionAmsterdam, Netherlands

Fake police in the Red Light District asked for ID and wallets

Scam date: 2025-06-13 Reported: 2026-07-16

Two men flashed "police" wallets in the Red Light District and said they needed to check our IDs and bags for drugs. They "inspected" my wallet and two €50 notes disappeared. Dutch police don't do wallet inspections on the street.

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Transport

Schiphol taxi driver claimed a €75 "zone fare" for a €40 ride

📍 Amsterdam, Netherlands

🗓️ Scam date: 9 October 2025

📝 Reported: 13 August 2026

Taxi at Schiphol quoted €75 flat because "zone fare applies at night". The metered ride to our hotel was €41. He also wanted cash only. Take the train or book a taxi through the official Schiphol desk.

Accommodation

Airbnb host asked us to pay a €300 deposit by bank transfer

📍 Amsterdam, Netherlands

🗓️ Scam date: 19 February 2026

📝 Reported: 22 May 2026

After booking, the host sent a message that a €300 deposit was required by bank transfer "to confirm the booking" and sent a payment link. It was a cloned listing. Payments for Airbnb only ever happen through Airbnb itself.