Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Shah Alam, Malaysia

All Topics about Shah Alam All Cities in Malaysia

1. Taxi Scams

Watch out for drivers who avoid using the meter or overcharge. Always agree on a price before starting your journey.

Avoid Unofficial Taxis: Always use registered and metered taxis.
Negotiate Fare Beforehand: Agree on a fare before starting your journey to avoid overcharging.
Stick to Main Routes: If the driver suggests a different route, ask for an explanation.

Beware of fake branded goods sold in certain markets. Always buy from reputable shops or official outlets.

Check for Quality: Check the quality of items carefully before purchasing.
Know Official Outlets: Research official outlets and avoid purchasing from unofficial sources.
Price Too Good to Be True: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Be cautious of ATMs with skimming devices or card traps. Always use well-lit, secure locations and cover your PIN.

Secure Locations: Use ATMs in well-lit, secure areas.
Cover Your PIN: Always cover your PIN when entering it to prevent others from seeing.
Check ATM for Tampering: Examine the ATM for any unusual attachments or signs of tampering.

Avoid street food vendors who use expired ingredients or do not adhere to food safety regulations.

Choose Busy Stalls: Choose street food stalls that are busy and have a good reputation.
Check Hygiene Standards: Ensure the vendor follows proper food handling and hygiene practices.
Avoid Food Offered Directly: Never accept food directly from strangers, even if they claim it's a gift.

Some beggars may scam you by pretending to be in need but are actually part of organized crime groups.

Avoid Giving Cash: Instead of giving cash, consider donating to reputable charities.
Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings when in crowded areas.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect a beggar is part of an organized crime group, report it to local authorities.

Some shops may sell SIM cards with hidden charges or unauthorized access. Always buy from official retailers.

Buy From Official Retailers: Always purchase your SIM card from an authorized retailer.
Check for Hidden Charges: Read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid hidden charges.
Secure Your SIM Card: Register your SIM card with a valid ID to prevent unauthorized access.

Some lodgings may overcharge or provide substandard services. Always book through reputable channels.

Book Through Reputable Channels: Book your accommodation through well-known travel agencies or booking websites.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before making a reservation.
Inspect the Room Upon Arrival: Inspect the room upon arrival to ensure it matches the description and any photos.

Be cautious of ticket sellers who offer fake or expired tickets. Always buy from authorized vendors.

Buy From Authorized Vendors: Always purchase your transportation tickets from authorized vendors.
Check Ticket Expiration Date: Ensure the ticket has not expired before using it.
Stay Alert to Unusual Behavior: If someone insists on selling you a ticket aggressively, they may be trying to scam you.

Some tour guides may charge excessive prices or lead you to places with hidden commissions.

Choose Reputable Tour Operators: Book your tours through well-known and reputable tour operators.
Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price before starting your tour to avoid overcharging.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on reputable tour guides.

Some internet cafés may install keyloggers to steal your personal information. Always use secure connections.

Use Secure Connections: Only use secure connections, such as a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
Avoid Leaving Devices Unattended: Never leave your devices unattended in internet cafés.
Check for Malware Protection: Make sure the computer you're using has up-to-date antivirus software.

Some performers may ask for money and then become aggressive when not given. Be cautious and only give to those who deserve it.

Support Deserving Performers: Give to performers who truly deserve your support.
Avoid Aggressive Behavior: Never give to performers who become aggressive when not given money.
Be Cautious of Scam Artists: Some performers may be scam artists pretending to be in need.

Some money exchange shops may give you less than the agreed-upon amount. Always use reputable shops.

Choose Reputable Shops: Always choose a reputable and licensed money exchange shop.
Count Your Money Carefully: Count your exchanged money carefully to ensure you receive the correct amount.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on reputable money exchange shops.

Some souvenir shops may overcharge for items. Always compare prices before purchasing.

Compare Prices: Always compare prices before purchasing souvenirs.
Bargain for a Better Price: Negotiate the price to get a fair deal.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may overcharge or sell counterfeit items.

Be wary of strangers who offer friendship and then ask for money. Maintain a safe distance.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Avoid getting too close to strangers, especially those who ask for personal information or money.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect someone is trying to scam you, report it to local authorities.
Stay Alert and Aware: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Watch out for emails or text messages that ask for personal information. Never share sensitive data through unsecured channels.

Never Share Sensitive Data: Do not share your sensitive personal information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.
Use Secure Connections: Only share sensitive data through secure connections, such as a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive suspicious emails or text messages, report them to your bank or internet service provider.