Most Common Tourist Scams in Paris (& What to Do)

Paris attracts millions of visitors every year, but its busy tourist areas also attract scammers who prey on distracted newcomers. If you’re planning a trip, knowing what to expect can help you avoid the most common traps.

This guide brings together detailed advice from travelers who’ve been through it.

The Bracelet Scam at Sacré-Cœur

One of the most common scams happens at the base of Sacré-Cœur. Men approach tourists with smiles or casual greetings and quickly grab a wrist to tie on a bracelet.

Often, several of them work together, surrounding the person to create pressure. Once the bracelet is on, they demand payment, sometimes asking for €20 or more.

Travelers who experienced this said it felt intimidating enough that they preferred to pay and leave rather than argue.

If you’re walking through Montmartre, it helps to keep your hands in your pockets and move with purpose. Avoid eye contact with groups of men hanging around the steps or paths.

If someone tries to grab you, pull away immediately and say “No” in a loud, firm voice without stopping.

Fake Petitions and Charity Scams

Another popular scam involves young people approaching with clipboards, asking you to sign a petition for a charity cause.

While you’re signing, they ask for a donation, or worse, someone else tries to pick your pocket. These setups often happen around Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and other busy sites.

The safest move is not to engage at all. A firm “Non merci” while continuing to walk is enough. Locals often treat unsolicited petitions the same way and don’t even slow down.

The Gold Ring Trick

The gold ring scam plays out near tourist sites and along riverbanks. Someone “finds” a gold ring on the ground just ahead of you and picks it up dramatically.

They offer it to you, claiming it’s valuable. If you accept it or even show interest, they ask for money in return.

If you see someone waving a ring at you, don’t interact. Just walk away. The moment you hesitate, the pressure starts.

Rose Sellers and Forced Gifts

Couples are often targeted by men offering roses near popular viewpoints and along the Seine.

The scammer hands the rose to a woman as if it’s a gift. Once it’s accepted, he immediately demands payment. Refusing to pay can lead to uncomfortable scenes.

It’s best to refuse any item being handed to you, no matter how charming the approach may seem. Smiling and saying “Non merci” firmly is enough. Do not take anything into your hands.

Street Games That Are Rigged

Near the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées, you might spot groups gathered around someone playing a shell game or cup-and-ball trick.

These are not real games. The players, winners, and crowd are often all part of the scam. The goal is to lure passersby into betting and losing quickly.

Many travelers recommend not even pausing to watch. If you notice a crowd forming around a street performance, especially one involving betting or guessing games, it’s best to steer clear.

Where Scams Happen Most Often

Scams cluster around the places tourists go. Sacré-Cœur and its steps, the Eiffel Tower base, Notre-Dame’s plaza, and the sidewalks of the Champs-Élysées are the busiest areas.

You might also encounter scammers near major train stations, especially Gare du Nord. If you find yourself near a landmark and notice groups loitering rather than sightseeing, that’s a warning sign.

Travelers say scammers are easy to spot once you know what to look for: they approach too eagerly, move directly toward you, and often work in small groups.

How to Move Like a Local and Avoid Being Targeted

One thing experienced travelers agree on: scammers often pick their targets based on body language.

Walking confidently, not pausing to look confused, and keeping your hands close to your body make you a less appealing target.

Avoid standing still near landmarks, keep a steady pace, and ignore unsolicited greetings. If someone tries to talk to you, a quick “Non merci” while continuing to walk sends a clear message that you’re not an easy mark.

Paris is a city where refusing strangers is normal, not rude.

What to Do If You’re Targeted

Even careful travelers sometimes get caught off guard. If you realize a scam is happening, the best move is to stay calm and walk away without further interaction. Most scammers will not physically pursue you if you don’t engage.

If you feel surrounded or threatened, raising your voice can help. Yelling “Police!” loudly can make scammers back off quickly.

Walking toward a vendor stall, open café, or group of legitimate tourists is a good move if you feel unsafe.

Are These Scams Dangerous?

Most Paris scams rely on social pressure, not violence. Scammers want fast money with low risk. Physical attacks are rare. The danger usually lies in intimidation and confusion rather than any real threat.

That said, it’s always better to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Pickpocketing sometimes happens alongside scams, so keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowds.

What to Know About Paris Police

Police presence is strong around major landmarks, but they usually don’t intervene in low-level tourist scams unless violence or serious theft occurs.

Also, beware of fake police scams! Real Paris officers will never demand cash fines on the street.

If you feel unsafe or witness a crime, heading to a nearby police station or dialing emergency services (112) is the appropriate response.

Smart Ways to Carry Your Money and Valuables

A few simple precautions can save you a lot of trouble. Use zippered bags you can wear across your body, preferably with the opening in front of you.

Keep wallets and phones out of back pockets. Don’t flash cash when paying for small purchases.

Many travelers recommend using a small money belt under your clothes for passports and backup cards, especially if you plan to be in crowded places.

Learning and Moving On

Getting scammed for €10 or €20 can sting, but many travelers see it as a cheap lesson. What matters is that you recognize the signs earlier next time.

Paris is a magnificent city, and a small encounter with a scammer shouldn’t ruin your trip. The important thing is to stay alert, stay firm, and keep your experiences positive.