These tourist scams with colorful nicknames can wreak havoc on your travel. Here’s what to know before you go to prevent your dream trip from turning into a disaster.
1. “Friendship Bracelet”
The ‘friendship bracelet’ scam is popular in tourist-heavy areas. Scammers approach you, often in a friendly manner, and tie a bracelet around your wrist, then demand payment.
To avoid this, be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited gifts or services, and keep your hands in your pockets if possible.
2. “Fake Police Officer”
Another common scam is the ‘fake police officer.’ In this scenario, individuals posing as police officers ask to see your passport or wallet, claiming to check for counterfeit money or illegal items—then proceeding to steal your valuables.
To protect yourself, always ask for identification if you feel uncomfortable.
3. “Overcharging Taxi”
One prevalent travel scam is the ‘overcharging taxi driver.’ This scam often involves taxi drivers who refuse to use the meter or claim it is broken, then charge exorbitant fares. Or, they may intentionally take long routes to increase your fare.
To avoid this, always insist on using the meter or getting out of the vehicle if it’s “broken”. Also, you can look up a direct route in advance and request that route before starting your journey. Make sure to use reputable ride-sharing apps where available.
4. “Closed Attraction”
The ‘closed attraction’ scam involves a local telling you that a popular tourist site is closed, often directing you to a different location where they receive a commission.
To prevent falling for this, verify opening hours online or at your accommodation, and be wary of unsolicited advice from strangers.
5. “Fake Wi-Fi”
The ‘fake Wi-Fi hotspot’ scam targets travelers looking for internet access. Scammers set up unsecured Wi-Fi networks in public places to steal your personal information.
Protect yourself by using a virtual private network (VPN) and avoiding accessing sensitive information on public networks.
6. “Currency Exchange”
The ‘currency exchange’ scam can occur when exchanging money in unfamiliar locations. Scammers might give you counterfeit bills or shortchange you.
To avoid tourist scams like these, use official currency exchange services or ATMs, and familiarize yourself with the local currency to spot discrepancies.
7. “Spilled Drink”
The ‘spilled drink’ scam involves a stranger ‘accidentally’ spilling a drink on you, then offering to help clean it up while an accomplice steals your belongings.
To protect yourself, be vigilant in crowded places and keep your valuables secure and close to your body.
8. “Fake Ticker Seller”
The ‘fake ticket seller’ scam involves individuals selling counterfeit tickets to events or attractions. These tickets are often sold at discounted prices to lure tourists.
To avoid this, purchase tickets directly from official websites or authorized vendors.
9. “Souvenir Swindler”
Another common ploy targets tourists by presenting an extravagant offer—a seemingly valuable item, such as jewelry or art, at a fraction of its real cost.
At first glance, these vendors offer a bargain so enticing that it feels foolish to pass up. However, the truth often reveals that the goods are either counterfeit or significantly lower in quality than represented.
Always scrutinize deals that appear excessively generous. In many cases, these too-good-to-be-true offers are just that—illusions designed to separate you from your money. Ask the seller for documentation or proof of authenticity, and be wary if they resist or offer fabricated paperwork.
Listen to Your Inner Alarm
Trust your instincts. In addition to these common tourist scams, if something feels off or makes you uncomfortable, it’s important to listen to that feeling. Scammers often rely on their targets ignoring their gut feelings. If you sense something is wrong, remove yourself from the situation and seek assistance from a trusted source.
You can successfully outsmart scammers by staying on high alert, acquiring street smarts, and recognizing the red flags of these deceptive scams.
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