A holidaymaker has issued a stark warning to anyone planning a trip to Paris after she and her family narrowly escaped falling victim to a Metro scam orchestrated by a so-called 'friendly stranger'. Nichola, who posts on TikTok as @fiftyinbloom, recounted the incident in a viral video, urging travellers to remain alert when navigating the French capital's public transport system.
How the Scam Unfolded
Nichola explained that while her family was struggling with a ticket machine at a Metro station, a well-dressed older man approached them, speaking fluent English. He offered to help, leading them to another machine where he claimed to purchase tickets for their planned day trip. The total displayed was €97 (£83), which Nichola deemed too expensive. Despite her objections, the man pressed the payment button, and three tickets emerged. However, Nichola noted that no payment confirmation appeared on the screen, raising her suspicions.
The man then escorted the group to a disabled access gate, scanning something to let them through. Crucially, they never used the tickets he had supposedly bought. On the platform, the man demanded €97, claiming he had paid with his card. When Nichola refused, he suggested €90 and pressured them to accompany him to an ATM, requesting that only one family member go with him. Nichola firmly declined, saying 'Not on my watch.'
The 'Friendly Stranger' Scam
Upon researching the incident, Nichola discovered it is a known ploy called the 'friendly stranger scam'. Scammers exploit tourists' confusion in unfamiliar surroundings, offering assistance with ticket machines to build trust. According to Nichola, the tickets they received appeared blank and unprinted, suggesting they may have been invalid. She admitted she had been suspicious from the start, advising others to trust their instincts if something feels off.
A TikTok user commented that they had experienced the same scam, with the fraudster wearing a counterfeit Metro badge to appear credible. Another user recommended using the Bonjour app to buy digital tickets (€30 or £25 for all-day access) directly on a phone, avoiding physical tickets and potential scams.
Impact and Advice
After the ordeal, Nichola and her family opted for a bus instead of the Metro, fearing further trouble. She hopes her story will help other tourists stay safe. 'At this point, it was all clicking into place,' she said, describing the moment she realized the man's intentions. The incident highlights the need for vigilance, especially during the busy summer season when scammers target unsuspecting visitors.
