NEW COUNTERFEIT SCAM
Passing off counterfeits is one of the oldest games in the book. What deserves notice (or a chuckle if it's not happening to you) though is the method in which ruthless characters maneuver the exchange of real currency for bum ones.
While the practice is universal, Istanbul seems to be a magnet for shady characters of all kinds. So buyer, traveler, or whomever beware!
The latest tricks of the trade prey on unsuspecting individuals, but primarily taxi passengers, who pay for goods or services--such as a cab ride-- with big bills.
Here's the scenario: the ride hands over, say, a 50-lira note to the cabbie, who after looking for change out of a thick wad of bills he just produced claims he can't make change. He hands it back. The regular Joe's just been fooled by a sleight of hand as the driver quickly slipped the one he's been given and traded it for a dupe.
Most won't even notice they've been fooled until a bank teller or retailer down the line won't accept the fake bill.
So.... The moral of the story is: Try carrying 20-lira notes or smaller. And, by all means, don't think this only involves cabbies.
STRICTLY SPEAKING: CRIME--GÜNAH (pron. as it's read)