A team of hustlers - Alexis Conran, Paul Wilson and Jessica Clement - try out some notorious scams on members of the public, filmed with hidden cameras. In Ibiza the gang use distraction steals to lift passports; a couple of bargain hunters are taken for a ride; how a strong cup of coffee can help you clean up at the card table; and it's daylight robbery by the police as Alex and Jess go undercover to pull off their latest scam. The participants featured in The Real Hustle have either been set up by their family and friends or believe that they are participating in another television programme. After they have been hustled for real any monies or property taken during the hustle are returned to them and their consent for the item to be broadcast is obtained so that viewers can avoid being ripped off by the same scam.