Fake Nuns and Monks in Greece: Tourists, Beware the Scam of the Year!
Where Are the Scammers Hiding? Fake nuns and monks are running rampant in Greece’s hottest tourist spots! Hospitals, churches, resorts, Halkidiki beaches, Thessaloniki’s Olympic region, even Aristotle Square near the White Tower – these are the playgrounds for these scams. Real nuns never sell blessed items outside monasteries, but these fake “sisters” and “monks” don’t care about rules.
How Does the Scam Work? Dressed in outfits that only look like real monastic robes at first glance, these scams are organized and dangerous. Usually in pairs, one tries to convince you to buy rosaries, crosses, or icons, while the other pickpockets you! If you refuse, they don’t back down – they start cursing and shove items into your hands, claiming they’re free, then aggressively demand money for the “monastery.”
Police Are Trying, But the Problem Grows Greek police arrest them when they manage to catch them, but these scammers pop up again like some never-ending con game. In recent months, Thessaloniki has seen a rise in fake monks – men joining this lucrative “business.”
Why Should You Care? These scams target the most vulnerable – kind-hearted, trusting people of faith. Fake nuns and monks not only cheat tourists but also damage the reputation of real church orders and monasteries. Real nuns rarely leave monasteries and never sell blessed items on beaches or streets.
How to Spot Them? Pay attention to their clothing – real monastic attire is specific and hard to fake. Be suspicious of anyone shoving items into your hands and demanding money aggressively. If you spot these people, call the police immediately.
The Bottom Line Greece is a beautiful country, but tourists must stay alert. Fake nuns and monks are the new threat at tourist destinations. Don’t get scammed! If you’ve encountered these fraudsters, share your story – maybe your comment will save someone else.
And next time someone shoves a rosary in your hand on the beach, remember – not all that glitters is gold, and not every nun is the real deal!
Source: Blic, Greek Info
