Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Fresno, California, United States
1. Fake Tour Guides
Unlicensed individuals offering tours in downtown Fresno, often leading to overpriced attractions. Avoid by asking for a city-issued guide badge.
- City-Issued Badge: Official guides will have this identification.
- Attractive Prices: Guides charging too much for tours should raise suspicion.
- Recommendations: Always research or ask locals about tour guides beforehand.
2. Parking Meters Scam
Fraudsters placing fake receipts on vehicles in parking lots, demanding payment. Be vigilant and only use legitimate parking meters or paid parking lots.
- Legitimate Parking Meters: Use only official parking meters found throughout the city.
- Parking Lot Security: Avoid deserted or poorly-lit parking lots.
- Police Presence: Look for police stations nearby to ensure a safe parking environment.
3. Counterfeit Money
Receiving fake bills at restaurants or shops, particularly in areas like Tower District. Always check your money carefully and count it at a bank if needed.
- Know Your Bills: Familiarize yourself with the design of US currency.
- Bank Validation: Exchange or validate your money at a bank if unsure.
- Busy Areas: Counterfeit bills are less common in busier, tourist-heavy areas.
4. ATM Skimming
Criminals using skimmers on ATMs to steal card information. Use bank ATMs or those located inside buildings and be cautious of any tampering.
- Bank ATMs: ATMs operated by banks have additional security measures.
- Inside Buildings: ATMs inside businesses or buildings are less likely to be tampered with.
- Cover Over Card Slot: Check for any signs of a skimmer covering the card slot.
5. Shoreline Park Scams
Unauthorized vendors selling overpriced or counterfeit items at Shoreline Park. Stick to official park merchandise and be wary of aggressive sales tactics.
- Official Merchandise: Only purchase merchandise from authorized vendors.
- Aggressive Selling: Vendors who pressure you to buy should be avoided.
- Park Signage: Look for signs indicating authorized vendors or sales areas.
6. Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots
Malicious hotspots offering free internet access to steal personal information. Use hotel or cellular data instead and avoid unsecured networks.
- Hotel Wi-Fi: Hotels offer secure, reliable Wi-Fi connections.
- Cellular Data: Use your cell phone's data plan to stay connected.
- Secure Networks: Only connect to secure, password-protected networks.
7. Overpriced Taxis
Taxis charging excessive rates or refusing to use meters. Use ride-sharing apps or public transportation whenever possible.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Uber and Lyft provide affordable and trackable rides.
- Public Transportation: Fresno offers reliable public bus services throughout the city.
- Metered Taxis: Insist on using a meter and avoid taxis that refuse to do so.
8. Busking Scams
Street performers demanding excessive tips or pretending to perform to distract from pickpocketing. Enjoy performances but be mindful of your belongings.
- Modest Tips: A few dollars is a reasonable tip for street performances.
- Pickpocketing Awareness: Keep your belongings secure while enjoying street performances.
- Official Busking Areas: Buskers are often only allowed to perform in designated areas.
9. Fraudulent Charities
Fake charities soliciting donations on the streets. Research and donate to reputable organizations to ensure your contributions are being used effectively.
- Reputable Charities: Donate to established, well-known charities.
- Online Donations: Make donations through the charity's official website.
- Ask for Proof: Legitimate collectors should be able to provide proof of their affiliation.
10. Graffiti Art Scams
Fraudsters offering graffiti art tours or lessons that charge exorbitant fees. Visit the popular murals throughout Fresno and do your research for affordable classes.
- Popular Murals: Visit well-known, Instagrammable graffiti art pieces.
- Reputable Classes: Look for affordable, reputable classes or workshops.
- Avoid Aggressive Sales: Decline offers from overly aggressive or pushy individuals.
11. Rental Scams
Fraudulent apartment rentals or vacation homes advertising on popular platforms. Always inspect properties in person and verify listings beforehand.
- In-Person Inspection: Always visit the property before renting.
- Verification of Listings: Check for authenticity through the platform's verification process.
- Local Recommendations: Seek recommendations from locals or trusted sources.
12. Pickpocketing
Thieves targeting tourists in crowded areas. Keep your belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings.
- Valuable Items Security: Keep valuable items (wallet, phone) hidden and secure.
- Crowded Area Awareness: Avoid overly crowded areas or places with poor visibility.
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover losses.
13. Car Break-ins
Thieves breaking into parked cars for valuables. Always lock your car and avoid leaving valuable items in sight.
- Lock Your Car: Always lock your vehicle and roll up windows.
- Valuable Items Safety: Keep valuable items hidden or at home.
- Parking Location: Avoid deserted or dimly lit parking areas.
14. Fraudulent Car Rentals
Rental companies offering cars with hidden damages or excessive fees. Research and compare prices before renting.
- Research Prices: Compare prices from several rental companies.
- Inspection Before Renting: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before driving off.
- Reviews and Ratings: Choose a rental company with positive reviews and high ratings.
15. Social Media Scams
Scammers posing as locals on social media to lure tourists into dangerous situations or scams. Limit personal information shared online and verify any local contacts in person.
- Limited Personal Info: Avoid sharing sensitive information online.
- In-Person Verification: Meet new contacts in person to verify their identity.
- Suspicious Requests: Be wary of any requests for money or personal favors.