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Common Tourist Scams
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Flashcards
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Taxi Scam
Taxi drivers overcharge or take longer routes to increase the fare. Ensure the meter is running and agree on a fare beforehand.
Fake Police Officers
Scammers posing as police officers demand to check your wallet for counterfeit bills, then steal your money. Always ask for identification and make checks in public places.
Closed Hotel Scam
Taxi drivers claim your hotel is closed and take you to a more expensive one where they get a kickback. Confirm your hotel's status in advance and insist on going to your original destination.
Friendship Bracelet Scam
Scammers place a 'free' bracelet on your wrist, then demand payment. Firmly decline any 'gifts' or avoid interaction.
Restaurant Scam
You are given a menu with reasonable prices, but when the bill comes, prices are higher. Always double-check prices before ordering.
Attraction is Closed Scam
Scammers inform you that a tourist spot is closed and suggest an alternative, often with shopping involved. Verify with official sources before changing plans.
Currency Exchange Scam
Unofficial currency exchanges offer poor rates or intentionally confuse to give less money. Use official exchange bureaus or ATMs.
Fake Tickets Scam
Selling fake admission tickets for attractions or transport. Only purchase tickets from official vendors or websites.
Overpriced Goods Scam
Vendors charge tourists excessively high prices for products. Research usual prices in advance and negotiate or compare before buying.
Pickpocketing
Thieves subtly steal belongings, often in crowded areas. Use money belts, keep valuables secure, and stay vigilant in crowds.
Distraction Scam
A scammer distracts you while an accomplice pickpockets you. Be aware of your surroundings and protect your belongings.
Gold Ring Scam
A scammer 'finds' a gold ring and offers it to you for a price, claiming it's real gold. Don't accept or buy found items.
Spilled Liquid Scam
Someone spills liquid on you, and while helping to clean up, they or an accomplice pickpockets you. Be cautious when strangers approach you after such incidents.
Fake Petition Scam
Scammers ask you to sign a petition and then demand a donation. Politely refuse and keep walking.
Bait and Switch Scam
You book a travel package or hotel based on great photos, but it's of low quality in reality. Use reputable booking platforms and check reviews.
Fraudulent Travel Agencies
Agencies offer non-existent vacations or disappear after payment. Book with well-known travel agencies and verify their legitimacy.
Rental Equipment Damage
Rental services claim you've damaged equipment and demand excessive fees. Take photos of the equipment beforehand as proof of its initial condition.
Wi-Fi Scam
Public Wi-Fi may be set up by scammers to steal personal information. Use VPNs and avoid entering sensitive information on public networks.
Timeshare Scam
Fraudulent timeshare investments are promised at a high return. Research and use legitimate real estate services to avoid scams.
Fake Charities
Scammers collect donations for non-existent charities. Check the legitimacy of a charity before donating.
Fake Souvenir Scam
Souvenirs sold as authentic local craftsmanship may turn out to be cheap, mass-produced items. Buy from reputable shops or artisans.
Inflated Prices for Tourists
Vendors or services charge tourists a higher price than locals. Know the local pricing and insist on standard rates.
Free Tour Scam
Guides offer free tours but then demand payment. Clarify expectations and payment in advance.
Counterfeit Money Scams
Scammers give tourists fake money as change. Familiarize yourself with local currency and check change carefully.
Motorbike Rental Scam
After you return a rented motorbike, the owner demands payment for existing damage. Document any pre-existing damage before renting.
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