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TRAVEL SCAM
Rome, Italy
African Bracelet Scam
Scammers place a bracelet on tourists’ wrists and use guilt or pressure to demand payment.
High Risk
COMMON LOCATIONS
Tourist areas, Colosseum, busy streets
HOW IT HAPPENS
HOW THE SCAM WORKS
1. Scammer starts friendly conversation;
2. Puts bracelet on wrist without permission;
3. Claims it’s a free gift;
4. Uses emotional story and pressure to ask for money.
WATCH FOR THIS
WARNING SIGNS
- Friendly approach with compliments;
- Bracelet placed without consent;
- Says “free gift” then asks for tip;
- Follows or pressures you
STAY SMART
HOW TO AVOID IT
- Ignore completely and do not engage;
- Do not accept items from strangers;
- Avoid eye contact;
- Walk away without responding
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