The Smiling Buddha Scam

2 ratings
4 July 2012

In Southeast Asia, some people resort to imitating Buddhists monks to scam unsuspecting tourists. Here’s what you need to know to avoid being duped by a fake monk.

Story by: 

Arienne Parzei

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Southeast Asia has its share of travel scams, but there’s one in particular that seems to pop up in almost all the countries in the region: the fake monk.

Dressed in the same richly saffron-coloured robes as their legitimate counterparts, these fake monks hit up tourist hot spots looking to collect alms. Collecting alms is customary for practicing monks, who usually go out daily to collect food. But these fake monks aren’t interested in edible alms; they’re looking for money, either directly or through a “donation” in exchange for a bracelet, prayer beads or a Buddha image.

It's unfortunate that some people in Southeast Asia resort to imitating Buddhists monks to scam unsuspecting tourists. Here's what you need to know to avoid getting scammed.This is an easy scam to spot and even easier to avoid as long as you’re aware of Buddhist monks’ practices.

I came across this informative poster while visiting a temple in Melaka, Malaysia, titled, “Don’t Be Conned: Eliminate the Bogus Monk.” Here are five ways to help you avoid getting hit up by a fake monk:

  1. No selling items, including Buddha images, prayer beads and relics
  2. Alms bowls are not for collecting money
  3. Mahayana monks do not go for alms round
  4. No alms round after 12 p.m. for Theravada monks
  5. A monk will only use his alms bowl to receive food and medicine

It’s a shame that there are those willing to exploit the practices of a religion and prey on tourists who don’t fully understand them. As travellers, it’s important to be respectful toward other cultures and religions and to be aware of some of the practices and traditions—so that your kindness and generosity aren’t exploited.

It's unfortunate that some people in Southeast Asia resort to imitating Buddhists monks to scam unsuspecting tourists. Here's what you need to know to avoid getting scammed.

DON’T GET SCAMMED! FOLLOW OUR FULL SERIES OF TIPS & STORIES TO HELP YOU AVOID THE WORST TOURIST SCAMS!

Arienne Parzei

Arienne Parzei is a Canadian who loves learning about different cultures first hand. She moved to South Korea in 2009 for two years, teaching English. That was followed by an eight-month backpacking trip through 11 countries including China, Australia and New Zealand. She shares her travel experiences, advice, and tips on her website SeeYouSoon.ca, inspiring others to get out and explore our incredible planet.