🇿🇦 Border + customs scams in South Africa
2 documented patterns
Cape Town traffic-light smash-and-grab
At certain traffic lights in CBD + Sea Point, attackers smash windows + grab phones / bags from passenger seats while car is stopped. Keep windows up, doors locked, bags out of sight.
OR Tambo arrivals fake-tax-collector
Person in semi-official attire approaches travelers in the arrivals hall claiming a 'tourism levy' of USD 20 is owed in cash. There is no such levy. Walk away or ask for SARS / customs identification.
Last verified 2026-05-09. Report a new scam →