13 Tourist Scams Every Traveler Should Avoid
Traveling is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but it also has its challenges — such as avoiding scams. Crafty schemes to take your money, goods, or peace of mind can even catch the most experienced traveler.
Here are some of the most common scams to be on the lookout for, and how to play your cards right as you explore the world. With the right preparation, and some awareness, you’ll be able to avoid turning your dream vacation into a financial nightmare.
The Broken Taxi Meter
Picture this: You hail a cab and all of a sudden the meter ‘isn’t working’ and the driver charges you a flat inflated fee for the ride. Airports and train stations are common places for this scam. Don’t accept a ride without the meter or without agreeing on price first. Better still, use ride hailing apps or a trusted taxi service so that you don’t have to deal with this.
The Friendship Bracelet Trick
There’s the person who gifts you a bracelet, ties it on your wrist before you can say no, and then demands you pay for it afterwards. If you refuse to pay, things can get out of hand pretty quickly. So, your best defense is to be polite about it, but firm, and walk away quickly.
The Distraction Pickpocket
A classic tool in the hands of a pickpock is distraction. You’re at a street performance, someone ‘accidentally’ spills something on you or a kid tugs at your sleeve, before you can say ‘jack’ an accomplice surreptitiously helps himself to your wallet or phone. Keep your valuables in a hard-to-reach place like a money belt, and watch what’s going on around you.
The Overpriced Souvenir Shop
You’ll get taxi drivers and tour guides who will tell you to stop at a local shop en route. The driver or guide pockets a commission, as a result, and the prices charged at these shops are exorbitant. If you can, research the trusted shops or markets beforehand, and stick to your plan rather than allowing others to steer you off course.
The Fake Police Officer
You’re approached by a person in uniform, who says they are police and are investigating counterfeit money, or drugs. They will ask to see your wallet and pretend to look at it and steal your cash or your credit cards. This is not how real police work. If you’re not sure, politely ask to see their badge, or offer to go to the police station with them.
The Free Photo Scam
Someone asks if they can take your picture because you’re at a famous landmark. They take your camera or phone, snap the shot, then demand an outrageous fee to return your camera or phone. Or they may try to make you pay for the “service.” It is always recommended to keep to selfies or ask other tourists to help.
The Closed Attraction
You visit a popular tourist spot, and it’s ‘closed for maintenance’, ‘holiday’. But they recommend an alternative tour or attraction, usually for a hefty fee. Before leaving, check hours and updates at official websites to avoid stories like this.
The Flirty Local
This scam is usually targeted to solo travelers. A local friend starts chatting you up, and then suggests taking you to a fantastic bar or club. Then you get intimidated by bouncers and make you pay a sky high bill after a few drinks. Go to places recommended by reliable sources and obey your instinct.
The Money Exchange Swindle
Some scammers try to pull off one of these tricks: They give you counterfeit money, shortchange you, or do some other confusing thing to try to get you to part with more of your cash. Don’t go to street exchangers, use official banks or a licensed exchange office. On top of that, and even better, you can withdraw local currency from ATMs in safe locations.
The “Found” Ring
A gold ring is ‘found’ by someone who insists it’s yours. When you deny ownership, they come back with an invitation to buy it from them at a ‘discount’. Of course, the ring is worthless. Politely decline and walk away—you don’t need a fake trinket and the headache that comes with it.
The Rental Damage Claim
You rent a scooter, bike or car, and return it only to be accused of damaging it. The cost the rental agency wants for the repair is steep, it’s premeditated scam! To avoid this, take pictures of the vehicle before hiring and stick to reputable rental agencies.
The “Helpful” Local at ATMs
Do you have an unfamiliar ATM fight? A helpful” stranger is another example – they come to your rescue, but also memorize your PIN or switch your card for a fake card. Refuse offers of help gently and shield keypad when punching your PIN. Choose ATMs in well-lit, busy areas, too.
The Fake Wi-Fi Scam
You get into a cafe or airport and there is a free Wi Fi network that begs to be connected to. That’s because it is—scammers use these phony networks to swipe passwords and credit card information. Stay on official Wi – Fi networks and if you want to go the extra mile, sign up to a VPN.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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