Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Wuxi, Jiangsu, China

All Topics about Wuxi All Cities in China

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overcharging and unofficial taxis by using authorized taxi services. Always agree on the fare before starting the journey.

Official Taxis: Use official taxi services identified by distinctive markings.
Fare Agreement: Avoid disputes by agreeing on the fare before starting your journey.
Unfamiliarity: Be aware that unofficial taxis may exploit travelers' unfamiliarity with Wuxi.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods in street markets. Opt for authorized shops or malls instead.

Authorized Shops: Shop at stores with proper licenses and certifications.
Quality Assurance: Ensure products meet quality standards by buying from authorized shops.
Risk of Legal Issues: Purchasing counterfeit goods could lead to legal problems upon return home.

Avoid ATMs in secluded areas or with suspicious modifications. Use well-lit and secure ATMs affiliated with banks.

Secure Location: Opt for ATMs located in well-lit, public areas.
Bank Affiliation: Use ATMs directly connected to banks or recognized financial institutions.
Card Skimming: Be aware of card skimming devices installed on unsecured ATMs.

Avoid purchasing SIM cards from street vendors. Go to authorized retailers or mobile network operator stores.

Authorized Retailers: Purchase SIM cards from authorized retailers or mobile network operator stores.
Proper Registration: Ensure proper registration and validation of your SIM card to avoid fraudulent use.
Data Security: Protect your data by avoiding the purchase of SIM cards from unauthorized sources.

Avoid unofficial tour guides. Always use licensed tour guides provided by reputable travel agencies.

Licensed Guides: Use only licensed and registered tour guides.
Reputable Agencies: Book tours through established and reputable travel agencies.
Guide Misinformation: Unlicensed guides may provide inaccurate or misleading information.

Avoid street food vendors with poor hygiene practices. Opt for establishments with good cleanliness standards.

Cleanliness: Choose restaurants and food stalls that maintain good sanitation and hygiene.
Cooking Practices: Avoid establishments with improper cooking methods or practices.
Food Allergies: Communicate your food allergies and dietary restrictions clearly to vendors.

Avoid overpriced accommodations. Book hotels or hostels through reputable online travel agencies.

Reputable Agencies: Book your accommodation through trusted and established online travel agencies.
Fair Prices: Avoid accommodations with prices significantly higher than the market average.
Location: Choose accommodation located in safe and central areas of Wuxi.

Avoid using unsecured internet cafes. Opt for reputable establishments with privacy guarantees.

Reputation: Choose well-known and reputable internet cafes.
Privacy Protection: Ensure the establishment offers privacy protection for your data.
Data Theft: Avoid internet cafes with a history of data theft or unauthorized access to users' devices.

Avoid carrying valuable items openly. Use secure pockets or bags. Be aware of crowded areas with pickpockets.

Secure Storage: Store valuables in secure pockets or bags.
Avoid Distractions: Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, especially in crowded areas.
Reporting Incidents: Immediately report incidents to local authorities if you become a victim of pickpocketing.

Avoid interacting with suspicious police officers. Always request identification when in doubt.

Legitimate Identification: Request to see official identification from any police officer who approaches you.
Reporting Incidents: If unsure, seek help from a reputable local or report the incident to your embassy.
Common Scenarios: Be aware of common scenarios where fraudulent police officers may approach you.

Avoid restaurants that do not display prices. Opt for transparent establishments with price lists.

Price Transparency: Choose restaurants that clearly display their prices.
Menu Misinformation: Be wary of hidden charges or misleading information on menus.
Ask for Clarification: Ask restaurant staff to clarify prices and any additional charges before ordering.

Avoid purchasing transportation tickets from unofficial vendors. Opt for authorized ticket sales points.

Authorized Sales Points: Purchase tickets from designated and authorized ticket sales points.
Fare Fraud: Be aware of unscrupulous individuals selling fake or overpriced transportation tickets.
Safe Travel: Ensure a safe and legitimate travel experience by purchasing authorized tickets.

Avoid donating to unofficial charities or collectors. Opt for recognized and legitimate organizations.

Legitimate Organizations: Donate only to recognized and legitimate charitable organizations.
Avoid Solicitation Scams: Be wary of individuals soliciting donations without proper identification or documentation.
Transparency and Accountability: Choose organizations that demonstrate transparency and accountability in their fundraising efforts.

Avoid engaging with street performers who demand payment. Opt for performances that are genuinely free.

Free Performances: Choose performances that do not require payment.
Avoid Solicitation: Avoid performers who solicit payment or demand compensation.
Support Local Artists: If you wish to support local artists, choose venues that pay performers fairly and transparently.

Avoid using counterfeit currency. Inspect notes for security features such as watermarks or holograms.

Security Features: Inspect banknotes for security features like watermarks, holograms, and microprinting.
Change Genuine Notes: Exchange counterfeit notes immediately for genuine ones at authorized exchange points.
Avoid Suspicious Transactions: Be wary of suspicious transactions and avoid accepting counterfeit currency.