How to Spot the "Begging Child" Travel Scam
The "Begging Child" Travel Scam is used in many overseas countries--especially those that are very poor. Begging children are employed to approach tourists, using props like old clothes, cardboard signs or letters and extract money from them.
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Instructions
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Understand that you make yourself an obvious target if you're in a tourist area dressed like a person who is obviously from the West.
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Notice if you're approached by a skinny, young child dressed in tattered clothing. The child will tell you about her need money for food, clothes or other necessities.
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Examine props that the child has to help gain your sympathy. Notes or letters explaining a dangerous or sad situation are not uncommon. Cardboard signs may be pressed against your body to help conceal hands as they go through your pockets and take your wallet and other personal belongings. Know that the robbery will likely only take a few seconds.
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Realize that the child may work with other young accomplices. If you give the child some money, other beggar children may go through your pockets while you are busy listening to her story or handing her something. The first child to whom you give money will also likely signal to the others that you have money. The other children may either try to rob you or try the same begging scam on you moments later.
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Tips & Warnings
If you find that you must give something to the begging child, consider handing over a simple, nutritious meal.
Giving money to a begging child, especially in Asia, may hurt them more than help. Gangs have been known to force the children to act like beggars and keep the money for illegal activity.
