Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Cuttack, Odisha, India

All Topics about Cuttack All Cities in India

1. Auto-rickshaw overcharging

A common scam in Cuttack is auto-rickshaw drivers overcharging tourists. They may claim higher rates or take longer routes.

Some individuals may pose as licensed tour guides in Cuttack to offer substandard or misleading tours. They may ask for excessive fees.

Licensed Guides: Always verify that your guide is registered and licensed by the local tourism department.
Research: Research the destinations you want to visit and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Reviews: Read reviews of guides or tour companies before hiring them.

Beware of shops selling counterfeit goods in Cuttack's markets. These items may appear genuine but are often poor quality.

Authentic Shops: Shop at reputable stores and avoid small street vendors selling expensive items.
Brand Logos: Check for discrepancies in brand logos or packaging as indicators of counterfeit goods.
Local Knowledge: Ask locals about trustworthy shops to purchase authentic goods.

Some money exchangers in Cuttack may provide lower exchange rates or charge additional fees. Be cautious when exchanging currency.

Research Exchange Rates: Research the current exchange rate before exchanging money.
Authorized Dealers: Use authorized dealers or banks for currency exchange.
Negotiation: Negotiate the exchange rate before finalizing the transaction.

Scammers may sell you a SIM card with pre-installed malware or offer excessive rates. Be careful when purchasing a SIM card.

Authorized Dealers: Buy SIM cards only from authorized dealers or the telecom company's official store.
Pre-paid Cards: Opt for pre-paid SIM cards to avoid long-term commitments and hidden charges.
Ask for Help: Ask for assistance if you're unsure about the process or pricing.

Scammers may pressure tourists to make large donations at temples. Be aware of this common scam in Cuttack.

Research Temple Donations: Research the acceptable donation amounts for each temple before visiting.
Pressure Tactics: Ignore anyone who pressures you to make a donation.
Discreet Donations: Place your donation in the designated offering boxes rather than handing it directly to someone.

Some tuk-tuk drivers in Cuttack may collaborate to overcharge tourists or take longer routes. Be cautious when using this transportation option.

Negotiation: Always negotiate the price before starting your journey.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or your accommodation staff for recommendations on trustworthy tuk-tuk drivers.
Use Metered Tuk-tuks: Opt for metered tuk-tuks whenever possible.

Taxi drivers in Cuttack may refuse to use the meter or take longer routes to overcharge you. Be careful when using taxi services.

Metered Taxis: Always insist on using metered taxis.
Fixed Rates: Negotiate a fixed rate before starting your journey if the taxi does not have a meter.
Reputable Companies: Use reputable taxi companies or pre-book your taxi through their official app.

Some street food vendors in Cuttack may use low-quality ingredients or poor hygiene practices. Be cautious when eating street food.

Vendor Reputation: Choose popular and well-known street food vendors.
Cooking Practices: Look for clean cooking environments and avoid vendors who reuse unwashed utensils.
Cooked Food: Opt for foods that are already cooked rather than those being prepared on the spot.

Some hotel owners in Cuttack may overcharge tourists. Be cautious when booking accommodations.

Online Booking: Book your accommodation online through reputable platforms to compare prices.
Negotiation: Always negotiate the price before finalizing your reservation.
Local Knowledge: Ask locals for recommendations on affordable accommodations in Cuttack.

Some beggars in Cuttack may be part of organized scams. Be cautious when giving money to beggars.

Avoid Giving Money: Instead of giving money, offer food or other necessary items.
Avoid Alleyways: Avoid walking through alleyways where beggars tend to congregate.
Stay Aware: Stay alert and avoid appearing distracted or vulnerable.

Some local tour operators in Cuttack may offer poor-quality tours or inflate prices. Be cautious when booking tours.

Research Operators: Research the operator's reputation and reviews before booking a tour.
Fixed Rates: Always negotiate a fixed rate for your tour beforehand.
Group Tours: Consider joining group tours to reduce costs and ensure safety.

During festivals in Cuttack, some scammers may take advantage of the increased crowd and chaos. Be cautious during these times.

Stay Vigilant: Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings during festivals.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid isolated or less crowded areas during festivals.
Local Guides: Consider hiring a local guide to help navigate the crowds and festivities.

Scammers may install fake ATMs in Cuttack that skim your card information. Be cautious when using ATMs.

ATM Safety: Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly monitor your account for any suspicious transactions.

Some hotels in Cuttack may have staff who steal items from guests' luggage. Be cautious when leaving your belongings unattended.

Lock Your Luggage: Always lock your luggage to prevent easy access.
Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers theft.
Valuables Storage: Store valuable items in the hotel safe or carry them with you.