Is a stranger who claims to have found cash and wants to share it with me running a scam?
Yes. This is a classic street-based confidence fraud known as the pigeon drop or found money scam.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
The pigeon drop is one of the oldest known confidence tricks. A stranger approaches you saying they found a wallet, envelope, or bag of cash and proposes splitting it with you. But first, they say, you both need to put up some 'good faith money' while they check with a lawyer or manager about what to do. Once you hand over your cash, the stranger and any accomplice disappear and the found money turns out to be fake or non-existent. The entire interaction is scripted by a professional fraudster. The core mechanic — using the prospect of free money to persuade you to hand over real money — is the same principle as advance fee fraud. No genuine finder of lost cash would approach a random stranger with this proposal.
Common red flags
- Stranger approaches you about found cash and proposes sharing
- A second person (an accomplice) appears to validate the story
- You are asked to provide 'good faith' money before splitting anything
- Urgency to decide quickly before the opportunity is lost
- Interaction moves toward an isolated location
What to do now
- Politely decline and walk away immediately
- Do not provide any cash, cards, or personal information
- Report the approach to police if it felt threatening
- Warn others nearby if you feel it is safe to do so
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I genuinely find lost cash or a wallet?
Hand it to the nearest police station or lost property office. The law in most countries requires found money to be declared and held for the rightful owner.