GACS Safe TravellerNew York City tourist scams: what to watch for, how to react
NYC's tourist scams are more polished than dangerous: CD/mixtape shakedowns in Times Square, fake ticket sellers, and the 'Elmo' character shakedown. Pickpocketing is real on the subway but far less than European tourist cities.
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Top 5 scams in New York City
Times Square 'free CD' / mixtape
A rapper hands you a CD, then demands $20–$50 once it's in your hand.
How it works
In Times Square, a self-described 'rapper' hands you their CD 'as a gift.' Once you take it, they insist you pay for it — often calling friends over to intimidate. Some also press for a Cash App or Venmo transfer instead of cash.
How to avoid it
- Do NOT accept anything handed to you in Times Square. Keep hands in pockets.
- Say 'no thanks' and drop it back into their hand if they push.
- Avoid making eye contact with anyone actively selling in the square.
If it happens: do this now
- Drop the CD on the ground and walk away.
- If they physically block you, walk toward the NYPD officers stationed at every corner of Times Square.
- Do NOT hand over your phone to make a Venmo transfer — this is often a phone-theft variant.
Costumed character photo shakedown
Elmo / Spider-Man / Minnie poses with your kid, then demands $20–$40 per photo.
How it works
Costumed characters in Times Square approach families, pose with kids before parents can react, then demand large 'tips.' Many are aggressive; some have been arrested for assault.
How to avoid it
- Keep small children close in Times Square. Do not let characters approach without asking.
- Tips are voluntary — $1–$2 is the norm if you actively posed.
- Look for 'Please tip' signs — if there's no clear tip jar, expect a demand.
If it happens: do this now
- Give $2–$5 if you posed. Walk away firmly if they demand more.
- Alert NYPD officers on any Times Square corner.
Fake ticket sellers (Broadway / attractions)
'Discount' Broadway or Empire State tickets from street sellers are fakes.
How it works
Sellers in Times Square, near Empire State Building, and outside major attractions offer 'discount' tickets that turn out to be invalid, expired, or for a different show.
How to avoid it
- TKTS booth in Times Square is the ONLY legit discount source for Broadway.
- Empire State, One World, Statue of Liberty — buy on the official .com or from the box office.
- Ignore anyone selling tickets on the sidewalk.
If it happens: do this now
- If already scammed, dispute the charge with your card issuer — Chase and Amex are aggressive on this.
- Report to NYPD Times Square Precinct (Midtown South, +1 212 239 9811).
Subway swipe helpers (JFK / Penn Station / Times Square)
Someone offers to 'swipe you through' with their MetroCard, then charges $10–$20 for a $2.90 ride.
How it works
At JFK AirTrain, Penn Station, and busy subway stops, hustlers stand near ticket machines and offer to 'help' with your MetroCard. They swipe you through with their own card and demand cash — often blocking the turnstile until you pay.
How to avoid it
- Use OMNY (tap credit/debit card or phone directly at turnstile). No MetroCard needed.
- Avoid the machines during rush hour if you can. Ask an MTA station agent (booth) for help.
- Never hand cash or your card to anyone at the turnstile.
If it happens: do this now
- Say 'no thanks' firmly and step away.
- Report aggressive hustlers to MTA at 511 or to any station agent.
Restaurant tip auto-add + suggested tip
Bill shows '18% gratuity included', then the tip line suggests 22–25% on top.
How it works
Some tourist-zone restaurants (Little Italy, Times Square) auto-add 18% service, then the card slip's suggested tip line starts at 20% of the post-service total — adding a second tip. Also common: pre-set tip on the payment tablet.
How to avoid it
- Check the itemised bill for 'gratuity', 'service', or 'auto-grat' BEFORE signing.
- Ask the server to reset the terminal's suggested tip to 0 if service is already included.
- NYC restaurant tip norm is 18–20% on the pre-tax subtotal.
If it happens: do this now
- Refuse to sign a doubled-tip bill. Ask for the manager.
- If already charged, dispute with your card issuer within 60 days.
Emergency numbers in United States
Local police & anti-fraud authorities
NYPD Times Square (Midtown South Precinct)
+1 212 239 9811
357 West 35th St — 24/7
NYC Consumer & Worker Protection
311
Bill / restaurant / merchant complaints
Most countries have a consulate in Midtown Manhattan. Search 'your country consulate NYC'.
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GACS Safe Traveller — New York City, United States. Updated 2026-07-14. Source: https://gacs.app/safe-traveller/new-york-city
© 2026 GACS — Global Anti-Crime & Safety. Published as a public safety guide. Content updated monthly from government advisories, local police guidance, and verified traveler reports.
Sources: US State Department, UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice, Australian Smartraveller, local police advisories, and reports verified by GACS. Content updated monthly.
