UK Ferry Tickets

Amsterdam is a great venue for a short break, but be wary if anyone approaches you claiming to be a policeman and asks to see your money and credit cards.

Apparently, an increasing number of men, usually from eastern Europe, are pretending to be plain-clothed policemen in the city. They show false identity cards, tell unsuspecting tourists that they are looking for counterfeit cards and money, and ask to see the contents of their wallet for verification.

After the fake inspection, everything is supposedly returned, but victims soon discover that some cards and money are missing.

The Foreign Office warns people that the fake officers never wear a uniform and like to show shiny police badges. It says travellers should call 0900 8844 to get in touch with their nearest police station if they are suspicious.

As they might say on Crimewatch, don’t let it put you off visiting Amsterdam. It’s a great city, there are fraudsters operating everywhere in the world, and the chances of you being targeted are slim.

Have you fallen victim to this scam?

Guest Article by Jeremy Skidmore

Friday, March 30th, 2007