Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Irkutsk, Russia

1. Overpriced Souvenir Shops

Avoid being overcharged for souvenirs by knowing the market price beforehand and negotiating.

Market Prices: Research the prices of souvenirs in local markets to avoid overpaying.
Negotiation: Always negotiate prices in souvenir shops to get a better deal.
Scam Alert Apps: Use traveler's scam alerts apps for the city of Irkutsk to stay informed.

Avoid unlicensed taxis and use pre-paid taxi services from your accommodation or airport.

Pre-Paid Taxis: Use pre-paid taxi services to avoid being overcharged.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt and check the price before starting your journey.
Know the Fare: Learn the standard taxi fare in Irkutsk to avoid being overcharged.

Only use licensed tour guides and check their credentials before embarking on a tour.

Licensed Guides: Use only licensed tour guides to ensure authenticity and safety.
Check Credentials: Always verify the credentials of your guide before a tour.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from your accommodation or reliable travel websites.

Exchange money only at official exchange offices and banks to avoid getting counterfeit bills.

Official Exchange Offices: Exchange money only at official exchange offices.
Check Bills: Always check the authenticity of the bills received.
Use ATMs: Use ATMs for smaller transactions and keep a limited amount of cash on hand.

Stay vigilant, especially around popular tourist spots and use a money belt or hidden pouch.

Money Belt: Use a money belt or hidden pouch to secure your valuables.
Awareness: Stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Leave Valuables Behind: Leave unnecessary valuables in a secure location, such as your accommodation.

Book accommodations through trusted websites or agencies to ensure authenticity.

Trusted Websites: Use well-known and trusted accommodation booking websites.
Check Reviews: Always check reviews before booking any accommodation.
Contact the Accommodation: Contact the accommodation directly to verify its authenticity.

Purchase tickets only from authorized sellers or outlets and verify their authenticity.

Authorized Sellers: Only buy tickets from authorized sellers.
Check Authenticity: Always check the authenticity of your ticket before use.
Ask for Receipt: Ask for a receipt when purchasing tickets to ensure they are genuine.

Avoid restaurants near popular tourist spots and check prices before ordering.

Restaurants in Tourist Areas: Avoid dining at restaurants located in tourist areas as they may overcharge.
Check Prices: Always check the prices of meals before ordering to avoid surprises.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals or reliable travel websites for authentic and affordable dining options.

Only use reputable internet cafes and protect your devices from potential threats.

Reputable Internet Cafes: Use only well-known and reputable internet cafes.
Protect Devices: Use a VPN to protect your device and personal information while using public Wi-Fi.
Check for Surveillance: Look for surveillance cameras in the internet cafe to ensure security.

Use ATMs located at banks or reputable shopping centers and check for any signs of tampering.

ATMs at Banks or Reputable Centers: Only use ATMs located at banks or reputable shopping centers.
Check for Tampering: Always check the ATM for signs of tampering before using it.
Use during Daylight: Use ATMs during daylight and avoid using them at night for added security.

Pay with credit cards or exchange money before going out to bars and clubs.

Credit Cards: Use credit cards whenever possible in bars and clubs.
Exchange Money Beforehand: Exchange enough money before heading to bars and clubs for the night.
Avoid Large Transactions: Make small transactions when paying with cash to minimize loss in case of counterfeit bills.

Avoid donating to charity collectors on the street and research legitimate charities instead.

Legitimate Charities: Research reputable local charities before visiting Irkutsk.
Donate at the Source: Donate directly to the source, such as a shelter or hospital.
Street Collectors: Avoid giving money to street collectors in Irkutsk.

Keep your business cards secure and avoid exchanging them with strangers.

Secure Business Cards: Keep your business cards in a safe place to prevent loss or theft.
Avoid Strangers: Only exchange business cards with trusted individuals and colleagues.
Use Digital Alternatives: Use digital alternatives, such as LinkedIn or email, for networking.

Avoid playing arcade games with unusual rules and always check the cost beforehand.

Unusual Rules: Avoid arcade games with unusual or unclear rules.
Check Cost: Always check the cost of playing a game before starting.
Stick to Reputable Arcades: Play arcade games at reputable and popular locations only.

Know the market price for items before bargaining and be cautious of sellers asking for excessive money.

Market Prices: Research the market prices for flea market items.
Bargain Fairly: Always bargain fairly and avoid offering an excessive amount.
Trust Your Instincts: If a seller's request seems too aggressive or suspicious, trust your instincts and walk away.