Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ciudad Guayana, Venezuela

1. Currency Exchange Scams

Watch for unfavorable exchange rates and hidden fees at unofficial currency exchange booths.

Official Exchange Rates: Stick to official banks or authorized exchange houses.
Avoid Street Transactions: Do not conduct transactions in the streets to avoid potential scams.
Verify Exchange Rates: Always check the current exchange rate before making any transaction.

Be wary of taxi drivers who refuse to use a meter or offer inflated prices.

Use Official Taxis: Choose official taxis with identifiable logos and plates.
Verify Fare Before Starting Journey: Ask the fare before starting your journey to avoid surprises later.
Use Mobile Apps for Taxis: Use mobile apps for booking licensed taxis and have a rough idea of the cost.

Some tour guides may overcharge or lead you to unrecommended places.

Choose Licensed Tour Guides: Check for licenses and recommendations before hiring a guide.
Research Destinations: Research tourist spots to avoid scams and find the best destinations.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices before starting your tour to avoid surprises later.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods, especially in crowded markets.

Buy from Official Stores: Purchase goods from authorized stores or shops.
Check for Quality: Inspect products carefully and be wary of poor quality items.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt to avoid any potential issues with the purchase.

Be cautious when donating to street collections as they may not be legitimate.

Donate to Registered Organizations: Donate to well-known, registered charities rather than individuals.
Check for Identification: Ask for identification from collectors to ensure they represent a legitimate charity.
Research Charities: Research charities before donating to make sure your contribution is used effectively.

Avoid buying SIM cards from unauthorized vendors or street sellers.

Purchase at Official Stores: Buy your SIM card at official stores to avoid fraudulent activity.
Check Activation Fee: Be aware of the activation fee and make sure it's reasonable.
Verify SIM Card: Ensure the SIM card is activated before leaving the store.

Be cautious when buying tickets for events or attractions as they may be fake.

Buy from Official Outlets: Purchase tickets only from official outlets or the venue's website.
Check for Security Features: Inspect the ticket for security features like holograms and watermarks.
Confirm Ticket Validity: Confirm the validity of the ticket with venue staff before entering.

Be aware of skimming devices and people trying to distract you at ATMs.

Use Well-lit and Busy Locations: Choose well-lit, busy areas with surveillance cameras for ATM use.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.
Check ATM for Tampering: Inspect the ATM carefully for any signs of tampering before using it.

Be cautious when booking accommodation as some places may overcharge.

Book through Reputable Websites: Book accommodation through reputable travel websites or agencies.
Compare Prices: Compare prices of various accommodations to find the best deal.
Check for Amenities: Ensure the accommodation offers necessary amenities and services.

Be wary of people who try to build friendships for personal gain or fraud.

Limit Personal Information Sharing: Limit the amount of personal information you share with strangers.
Verify Identities: Verify identities and backstories of new acquaintances before trusting them.
Avoid Financial Transactions: Avoid financial transactions with strangers, especially early in the relationship.

Be cautious when using internet cafes as some may install keyloggers.

Choose Reputable Internet Cafes: Select reputable internet cafes with good reviews.
Use Secure Websites: Always use secure websites (HTTPS) when entering sensitive information.
Protect Your Devices: Use antivirus software and firewalls to protect your devices.

Be cautious when seeking medical services as some providers may be unlicensed.

Verify Licenses: Check for licenses and certifications before seeking medical treatment.
Research Medical Facilities: Research the medical facility's reputation and services offered.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or travelers for recommendations on reliable medical providers.

Be cautious when eating street food as some vendors may use expired ingredients.

Choose Busy Street Food Stalls: Select street food stalls that are busy with customers.
Check Hygiene Standards: Inspect the vendor's hygiene standards, such as cleanliness and food handling.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or travelers for recommendations on good street food vendors.

Be cautious when renting a car as some rental companies may charge hidden fees.

Rent from Reputable Companies: Choose reputable car rental companies with good reviews.
Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any damages before accepting it.
Understand Contract Terms: Carefully read and understand the contract terms before signing.

Be cautious when arranging airport transfers as some drivers may charge inflated prices.

Book in Advance: Book your airport transfer in advance through a reputable company.
Check Fare Before Starting Journey: Ask the fare before starting your journey to avoid surprises later.
Use Official Transfer Services: Choose official airport transfer services for a safe and reliable journey.