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On the Street and in Public Place
Keep your valuables secure – pickpockets operate in crowds (metro, markets, train stations).
Avoid dark alleys at night – especially in unfamiliar areas.
Don't carry large amounts of cash – use cards (student card ) or mobile payments.
Be cautious with strangers – do not agree to "lucrative offers" (currency exchange, "free" tours).
In Transport
Metro and buses – keep an eye on your bags and phones, especially during rush hour.
Taxis – only order through official apps (Yandex Go).
Do not get into cars with a "Taxi" sign on the windshield – these may be illegal carriers.
In the Dormitory and Apartment
Lock the door with a key – even if you're leaving for a short time.
Do not let strangers into your room – even if they introduce themselves as municipal service employees (always check their IDs).
Keep your documents in a safe place – it's best to make copies of your passport and visa.
Types of Fraud and How to Avoid It
Financial Scams
- "Urgent currency exchange" – scammers offer a favorable exchange rate but give counterfeit bills or disappear with your money.
- How to avoid: Only exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices.
- "Help with registration/visa" – pseudo-lawyers take money for "document processing" and disappear.
- How to avoid: Resolve all matters through your university or official migration services.
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Phone and Internet Scams
- "Call from the bank/police" – they ask for your card details or to transfer money.
- How to avoid: Never give out your PIN, CVV code, or SMS passwords.
- Fake rental websites – they ask for an advance payment for an apartment that doesn't exist.
- How to avoid: Rent housing only through verified agencies or inspect the apartment in person.
Street Scams
- "Free" souvenirs or help – they may demand money after you have taken the item.
- How to avoid: Politely refuse and walk away.
- "Document check" – fake police officers demand your passport and extort money.
- How to avoid: A real police officer is required to show their ID. If in doubt, call 102 (police).
Who to Contact in Emergency Cases?
Emergency Phone Numbers:
- Police – 102 (from a mobile)
- Ambulance – 103
- Fire Service – 101
- Unified Emergency Number – 112 (works even without a SIM card)
Contacts for International Students:
- University Migration Department – can help with visa and registration issues.
- Institute of International Education – please report any serious problems here.
- Embassy/Consulate of your country – provides support in difficult situations.
- MIA (Ministry of Internal Affairs) Hotline for Migrants: +7 (495) 667-74-47
Useful Tips
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Download the "Госуслуги Москвы" (Moscow City Services) app – it contains information on safety and emergency services.
Save your curator's/advisor's contact details – at the university, you will have a helper for adaptation.
Learn basic Russian phrases ("Pomogite!" - Help!, "Vyzzovite politsiyu!" - Call the police!, "Gde posol'stvo?" - Where is the embassy?).
Moscow is a hospitable city, but it's important to be vigilant. If you follow the basic safety rules, studying here will be comfortable and safe. If you have any problems – do not hesitate to seek help from the university or law enforcement agencies.
