Nepal Scams: Tourist, Trekking & Online Fraud Guide
Common scams targeting trekkers and tourists in Nepal, from Everest permit fraud to online job and investment scams, with official reporting channels.
Emergency number: 100 (police) — verify on official sources.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Nepal draws hundreds of thousands of trekkers and pilgrims each year, creating fertile ground for tourist-area scams alongside growing online fraud. Fake trekking permits, dodgy guides, and overcharging guesthouses are well-documented risks, while cybercrime — including task scams, job fraud, and investment schemes — is a rapidly growing problem. The Nepal Police Cyber Bureau at cyberbureau.nepalpolice.gov.np is the primary official reporting channel.
Common scams
- Fake trekking permits and counterfeit park entry tickets
- Online job and task-based income scams
- Investment and crypto fraud via social media
- Phone and internet banking phishing
Tourist-specific scams
- Fake or unlicensed trekking guides collecting fees and disappearing
- Counterfeit permits for Everest and Annapurna treks
- Overcharging guesthouses and lodges on popular trekking routes
- Gem and crystal 'investment opportunity' scams in Kathmandu
Online shopping scams
- Task-based income scams paying small amounts then demanding deposits
- Phishing targeting Nepalese bank users
- Fake lottery and prize notification messages
Job scams
- Fake overseas job offers (particularly Gulf countries) requiring upfront fees
- Fraudulent domestic recruitment agencies collecting fees for non-existent jobs
Romance scams
- Social media romance fraud leading to financial requests
- Dating-app grooming escalating to investment schemes
Investment scams
- Fake forex and crypto platforms promoted via Facebook and Viber
- Ponzi schemes disguised as business investment opportunities
How to report a scam here
- If money was transferred, contact your bank immediately
- Report cybercrime to the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau at cyberbureau.nepalpolice.gov.np or call 01-4219044
- For trekking fraud (fake permits, unlicensed guides), report to the Nepal Tourism Board
- Dial 100 for police emergencies
Local reporting & protection links
Always verify reporting routes and emergency contacts on the official government or agency website for your country.
Bank & payment guidance
Contact your bank using the official number on your card or app immediately. Report cybercrime to the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau at cyberbureau.nepalpolice.gov.np — you can submit a report online with supporting evidence.
Evidence to preserve
- Screenshot all messages, profiles, websites and payment pages
- Save transaction references, account numbers and crypto wallet addresses
- Keep emails with full headers where possible
- Note dates, times, names and phone numbers used
Frequently asked questions
How do I verify a trekking permit in Nepal is genuine?
Official trekking permits are issued by the Department of Immigration for TIMS cards and the Department of National Parks for restricted area permits. Always obtain permits through official government offices or licensed trekking agencies registered with the Nepal Tourism Board.
Sources
- National police and cybercrime portals (verify on official sites)
- FTC / Action Fraud / Scamwatch consumer guidance