Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Nanjing, China

1. Taxi Scam: Overcharging

Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge tourists, especially at night or from unofficial ranks.

Avoid Unofficial Ranks: Always take taxis from official taxi ranks.
Use Taxi Meter: Ensure the taxi meter is turned on and being used correctly.
Know Fixed Prices: Know common fixed prices for popular tourist destinations.

Some markets in Nanjing sell counterfeit goods. Be cautious when shopping.

Check Labels: Legitimate brands will have official labels and packaging.
Price is Too Good to be True: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Shop at Reputable Stores: Buy from reputable stores or shopping centers.

Some vendors may ask for an exorbitant activation fee for tourist SIM cards.

Buy from Official Vendor: Buy your SIM card at official telecom company stores.
Check Fee Before Purchase: Ask for the cost before purchasing a SIM card.
Negotiate Price: Feel free to negotiate the activation fee.

Criminals may use card skimming devices on ATMs to steal your card information.

Choose Well-lit, Busy Areas: Choose ATMs in well-lit, busy areas.
Cover Input Keypad: Cover the input keypad with your hand when entering your PIN.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account for unusual activity.

Some street food vendors may contaminate food to make tourists sick.

Choose Busy Stalls: Choose stalls that are busy and have many customers.
Avoid Unusual Food: Avoid foods that are unfamiliar or not popular in Nanjing.
Check Hygiene Levels: Look for good hygiene practices, such as gloves and clean surroundings.

Some tour guides may overcharge tourists for their services.

Ask for Recommendations: Ask your hotel or local tourism office for recommendations.
Check Credentials: Make sure the guide has a valid license and ID.
Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price before the tour begins.

Scammers may exploit language barriers to trick tourists.

Some cybercafes may install spyware on your device.

Use Trusted Cybercafes: Choose cybercafes that are clean and busy.
Use a VPN: Always use a VPN to protect your online activity.
Update Your Device: Regularly update your device's operating system and security software.

Night markets can be popular locations for pickpockets.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings secure, preferably in a pickpocket-proof bag.
Stay Alert: Remain aware of your surroundings and people around you.
Don't Carry Valuables: Leave valuable items, such as extra cash and unnecessary cards, in a safe place.

Some rickshaw drivers may overcharge tourists for their services.

Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price before the ride begins.
Check Rates: Know the average rate for rickshaw rides in Nanjing.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from your hotel or local tourism office.

Criminals may pose as police officers to scam tourists.

Ask for ID: Legitimate police officers will always show identification.
Stay Calm and Don't Share Information: Remain calm and do not share sensitive information.
Go to a Police Station: If you are unsure, go to the nearest police station for assistance.

Some beggars may use distractions to steal from tourists.

Stay Alert: Remain alert and aware of your belongings.
Avoid Distractions: Do not get distracted by beggars or people acting strangely.
Keep Your Belongings Secure: Keep your belongings secure, preferably in a pickpocket-proof bag.

Some individuals may use dating apps or sites to scam tourists.

Verify Identity: Always verify the person's identity before meeting.
Don't Share Personal Information: Do not share sensitive personal information.
Meet in Public Places: Always meet in public places and tell someone where you are going.

Some ferry operators may overcharge tourists for their services.

Check Rates: Know the average rate for ferry rides in Nanjing.
Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price before the ride begins.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from your hotel or local tourism office.

Some temples may have overpriced donation boxes.

Research Temple Customs: Learn about the customs of Nanjing's temples.
Ask Locals: Ask locals what is an appropriate donation amount.
Give What You Comfortable With: Feel free to give what you are comfortable with, but do not feel pressured.