Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
1. Flower Power Scam
A scam where 'kind' strangers offer flowers and then demand payment. Avoid accepting unsolicited gifts.
- Unexpected Gifts: Be cautious of unexpected offers.
- Demand for Payment: Be aware that sometimes gifts come with a price tag.
- Crowded Areas: Scams often occur in busy tourist spots.
2. Taxi Scam
Some taxis might run the meter backward or refuse to use it. Use licensed taxis and insist on meter usage.
- Unlicensed Taxis: Be wary of unmarked or unlicensed vehicles.
- No Meter Usage: Always insist on the meter being used.
- Nighttime Travel: Scams are more common at night or in deserted areas.
3. ATM Skimming
Thieves install devices on ATMs to steal your card information. Use well-lit, busy ATMs and never leave your card unattended.
- Busy Areas: Prefer well-lit, busy locations for using ATMs.
- Card Safety: Never leave your card unattended at the ATM.
- ATM Security Features: Check for any suspicious devices before using the ATM.
4. Street Entertainers Scam
Street performers might pressure you for money or distract you while someone picks your pockets. Enjoy performances but be vigilant.
- Distractions: Be aware of potential distractions around street performers.
- Pressure for Money: Never feel pressured to give money; only if you wish to appreciate the performance.
- Crowded Areas: Scams are more common in crowded tourist spots.
5. Overcharging in Restaurants
Some restaurants might overcharge tourists. Verify prices before ordering and avoid restaurants that do not display menus.
- Price Verification: Always verify prices before ordering.
- Menu Availability: Avoid restaurants without visible menus.
- Reputable Restaurants: Choose reputable, well-reviewed restaurants.
6. Counterfeit Goods
Markets might sell counterfeit goods. Buy from licensed shops or beware of extremely cheap prices.
- Licensed Shops: Buy only from licensed stores.
- Cheap Prices: Be wary of prices that are too good to be true.
- Avoid Markets: If possible, avoid markets where counterfeit goods might be sold.
7. Fake Tours and Activities
Some tours or activities might not deliver what is promised. Research and book only from reputable sources.
- Reputable Sources: Book tours and activities only through well-known, reputable providers.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices with other providers to ensure reasonable rates.
- Read Reviews: Always read reviews and customer feedback before booking.
8. Pickpocketing in Trams
Trams can be crowded and a hotspot for pickpockets. Keep belongings close and be alert.
- Crowded Trams: Be more cautious in crowded trams.
- Secure Belongings: Keep your belongings secure and close to you.
- Pickpocket-Prone Areas: Be aware that pickpockets may target trams in tourist areas.
9. Sim Card Scam
Some shops might sell sim cards with additional charges. Verify the deal before purchasing.
- Verification: Always verify the cost and inclusions of the sim card deal.
- Reputable Shops: Buy from reputable, well-known telecommunication shops.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying sim cards from street vendors.
10. Ferry Scam
Some ferries might overcharge or refuse to use the meter. Use licensed ferries and insist on meter usage.
- Licensed Ferry Services: Always choose licensed ferry services.
- Meter Usage: Insist on meter usage for your journey.
- Time of Travel: Be aware that scams might be more prevalent during peak hours.
11. Car Parking Scam
Some parking lots or attendants might overcharge. Choose official parking areas and confirm prices beforehand.
- Official Parking Areas: Always park in official parking zones.
- Price Verification: Ask for and confirm prices before using car parks.
- Time of Day: Scams are more common during busy hours or at night.
12. Bogus Charity Collectors
Some people pretending to be charity collectors might not be genuine. Research legitimate charities before donating.
- Legitimate Charities: Donate only to well-known, reputable charities.
- Donation Methods: Be wary of collectors who ask for cash instead of donating online or directly to the charity.
- Crowded Areas: Scams often occur in crowded tourist spots.
13. Fake Wi-Fi Hotspots
Public Wi-Fi might not be secure. Use VPNs and avoid logging into sensitive accounts when using public Wi-Fi.
- VPN Usage: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection.
- Avoid Sensitive Accounts: Never log into sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Secure Connections: Only use secure, encrypted connections when using public Wi-Fi.
14. Street Art Scam
Some street artists might pressure you for money or offer counterfeit artwork. Enjoy the art but be cautious.
- Counterfeit Artwork: Be wary of offers for low-priced, high-quality artwork.
- Pressure for Payment: Never feel pressured to buy anything; only if you wish to appreciate the art.
- Busy Areas: Scams are more common in crowded tourist spots.
15. Bogus Guide Services
Unlicensed guides might offer you their services. Use only licensed and reputable guide services.
- Licensed Guides: Always choose licensed and reputable guide services.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices with other guides to ensure reasonable rates.
- Read Reviews: Always read reviews and customer feedback before booking.