Britons have been issued a fresh travel warning for Japan after a surge in reports of a scam targeting tourists.
The British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) issued the alert on Tuesday morning, warning tourists were being targeted by a malicious drink spiking and credit card fraud.
Japanese Police have highlighted four areas of Tokyo as being particularly high risk: Kabukicho, Roppongi, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro.
Under the scam, tourists are approached by street touts speaking English who lure victims into bars and nightclubs where their drinks are spiked.
Victims report waking up with no memory of the night before with tens of thousands of pounds missing from their accounts.
The FCDO warned: “There are increased reports of drink spiking and credit card fraud.
“Victims have described waking up with no memory of what happened and discovering large amounts of money billed to their credit card.
“The amount of money taken ranges from hundreds to tens of thousands of pounds.
Victims report waking up with no memory of the night before, with tens of thousands of pounds missing from their accounts
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“Risks are higher in all entertainment and nightlife districts across Japan.
“In particular, the Japanese police have identified the following areas in Tokyo as high-risk zones:
- Kabukicho
- Roppongi
- Shibuya
- Ikebukuro
“Most British victims have reported being targeted in Kabukicho, a popular tourist destination in Shinjuku.
“Victims claim to be approached in English by street touts known as ‘kyakuhiki’.
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Kabukicho has been highlighted as one of four areas in Tokyo with high risk
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“Do not follow street touts into bars.”
The FCDO notes tourists can reduce the risk and impact of spiking by:
- not accepting drinks from strangers
- not leaving drinks unattended or asking a trusted friend to keep an eye on your unfinished drink
- not following street touts into bars
- securing your finances against fraudulent transactions
- only carrying what you need and securing spare cash, cards, and valuables at your accommodation
Tourists have been advised that prostitution and street touts are illegal but commonplace in Japan
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Tourists have been advised that prostitution and street touts are illegal but commonplace in Japan, especially in the high risk areas outlined above.
The FCDO advises Britons not to accompany street touts to bars or clubs.
“Street touts often encourage people to enter an establishment by misrepresenting the services on offer.
“You may incur an entry charge so do not enter on the promise of a free drink or to have a look, as you may not be free to leave.”
As a result, a number of British nationals have been arrested at clubs and bars following disputes with staff and doorpersons over excessive bar bills.
To avoid altercations, Britons have been told to “ensure you see a menu with prices before you enter a bar or restaurant.
“Keep track of what you order and confirm the price of admission to clubs on entry.”