Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Jining, China

1. Taxi Scams

Watch out for drivers who refuse to use taximeter or charge excessive prices. Always agree on a fare before starting the journey.

Avoiding Fare Cheating: Always insist on using a taximeter and agreeing on a fare in advance
Recognizing Unlicensed Drivers: Avoid vehicles without official license plates or registration documents
Knowing Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency numbers handy and share your travel details with someone trusted

Be cautious when shopping for electronics, branded goods or souvenirs. Always buy from reputable shops or markets.

Recognizing Counterfeits: Check for signs of poor craftsmanship or unusual prices
Shopping in Reputable Locations: Avoid street vendors and small shops, opt for larger, established retailers instead
Checking for Guarantees: Ensure that your purchases come with a warranty or refund policy

Research tour operators thoroughly before booking. Look for positive reviews and official certifications.

Verifying Certifications: Check if the operator is registered with relevant local tourist authorities
Reading Reviews: Look for customer feedback and experiences online
Comparing Prices: Ensure the pricing is competitive with other reputable operators in Jining

Stick to well-lit, busy areas when using ATMs. Be wary of any unusual card readers or keypads.

Avoiding Skimming: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN and check the machine for tampering
Using Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located within bank branches or reputable hotels
Monitoring Transactions: Check your account balance and transactions regularly to spot any unauthorized withdrawals

Avoid restaurants near tourist attractions. Ask for the price of dishes before ordering and check the bill carefully.

Finding Affordable Eateries: Seek recommendations from locals or explore further from popular attractions
Understanding Menu Prices: Ask for price estimates in advance and confirm before ordering
Checking the Bill: Ensure that the prices on the bill match the menu prices and no extra charges have been added

Avoid eating from unhygienic or suspicious street food vendors. Stick to established markets or recommended stalls.

Recognizing Unsafe Vendors: Look for clean working conditions, proper storage and hygiene practices
Choosing Recommended Stalls: Ask locals for recommendations or opt for busy stalls with long queues
Inspecting Food Safety: Check if food is cooked in front of you and avoid pre-prepared foods

Pre-book your airport taxi or agree on a fare with a licensed driver before starting the journey.

Pre-Booking Taxi Services: Arrange for a pre-paid or fixed-rate airport taxi service
Negotiating Fares: Bargain for a reasonable fare with licensed drivers before starting the journey
Avoiding Unlicensed Drivers: Look for vehicles with official airport signs or badges

Book accommodation through reputable online platforms or agencies. Inspect the property thoroughly upon arrival.

Booking through Reputable Platforms: Choose well-known travel websites for booking accommodations
Inspecting Property upon Arrival: Ensure the property matches the description provided online and check for any damage or issues
Checking Amenities: Confirm that the promised amenities are available upon arrival

Purchase local handicrafts and products from reputable shops or at official markets.

Recognizing Authentic Products: Look for the 'Made in Jining' label or ask for proof of authenticity
Shopping at Official Markets: Visit markets run by local governments or authorities to ensure authentic goods
Avoiding Street Vendors: Opt for larger, established retailers instead of street vendors

Be wary of overly affectionate or needy individuals online. Never share sensitive information or send money to strangers.

Verifying Identities: Perform a reverse image search and cross-check social media profiles
Meeting in Public Places: Avoid invitations to secluded locations or meeting strangers alone
Reporting Suspicious Activities: Inform local authorities if you suspect a scam and keep records of all communications

Avoid rickshaws offering sightseeing tours. Agree on a fare before starting the journey.

Negotiating Fares: Bargain for a reasonable fare with the rickshaw driver before starting the journey
Avoiding Unofficial Rickshaws: Look for rickshaws licensed by local authorities
Staying Aware of Distances: Research travel distances and costs in advance to avoid being overcharged

Purchase tickets from authorized sales points or reliable online platforms. Be wary of individuals offering last-minute deals.

Buying from Authorized Sellers: Buy tickets from official ticket counters, the venue's website or authorized resellers
Avoiding Individual Ticket Sales: Refuse to purchase tickets from individuals offering last-minute deals
Checking Ticket Prices: Research ticket prices in advance and compare with the ones offered by potential sellers

Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Use a VPN service or mobile data when needed.

Using Secure Connections: Use a VPN service or your mobile data whenever possible
Avoiding Public Wi-Fi: Refrain from using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks
Installing a VPN: Install a reliable VPN service on your device before traveling to Jining

Exchange money at banks or reputable exchange centers. Be wary of street vendors offering unfavorable rates.

Exchanging Money at Banks or Exchange Centers: Use licensed exchange centers or exchange your currency at a bank
Avoiding Street Vendors: Refrain from exchanging money with street vendors offering unfavorable rates
Researching Exchange Rates: Research current exchange rates to avoid being overcharged

Donate to recognized charities or official organizations. Be wary of individuals soliciting donations on the street.

Donating to Recognized Charities: Research and donate to established local charities or official organizations
Avoiding Street Solicitors: Refuse to donate to individuals soliciting on the street
Verifying Charity Legitimacy: Check the charity's website or contact local authorities to verify its legitimacy