Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Montería, Córdoba, Colombia
1. Taxis de Callejo
Unlicensed taxis found at 'callejos', informal transit areas. Avoid these for safety and legal reasons.
- Safety Concerns: Operating without proper regulations may pose risks to passengers.
- Legal Complications: Using unlicensed taxis can lead to issues if involved in an accident or encountering problems with the authorities.
- Lack of Accountability: Official taxis provide more accountability and insurance coverage in case of incidents.
2. Motos Taxis
Motorcycle taxis offering rides around the city. Ensure they're registered and follow safety precautions.
- Safety Precautions: Riders should wear helmets, use reflective gear at night, and follow traffic rules.
- Registration Check: Check the motorcycle's registration number and ask for a receipt to avoid illegal operations.
- Price Negotiation: Agree on the price before starting the journey to prevent overcharging.
3. Bogotá-Montería Flight Scam
Some travel agencies sell flights from Bogotá to Montería that don't exist. Research agencies and flight schedules thoroughly.
- Reliable Agencies: Book with established airlines or authorized travel agencies.
- Flight Schedule Verification: Check the flight schedule on the airline's official website to avoid confusion.
- Customer Reviews: Look at customer reviews and ratings before making a booking.
4. Counterfeit Currency
Beware of receiving fake Colombian Peso bills during transactions. Check notes for security features and exchange only at banks or authorized money exchangers.
- Security Features: Examine the bill's texture, color-shifting ink, watermark, and hologram.
- Authorized Exchange: Exchange money only at banks or official money exchangers to prevent receiving counterfeit bills.
- Cautious Spending: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and always keep small bills handy for smaller transactions.
5. Fake Police Officers
Occasionally, individuals impersonate police officers to rob tourists. Ask for identification if you suspect someone is not a real officer.
- Official Identification: Real police officers carry an official ID card with their name, badge number, and photo.
- Police Station Contact: If unsure, call the local police station to confirm their identity.
- Safety in Numbers: Travel in groups or with a trusted local guide to reduce the risk of encountering such individuals.
6. Coin Trick Scams
Scammers manipulate coins in public places, giving the impression of performing magic tricks. Decline participation to avoid unwanted attention and potential theft.
- Wariness: Avoid participating in such activities as they can be a disguise for pickpocketing.
- Public Gatherings: Scammers may target crowded areas where it's harder to spot suspicious behavior.
- Valuables Safety: Keep personal belongings close and in sight at all times.
7. Pickpocketing at the Market
Be cautious while shopping at local markets as pickpockets operate in crowds. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
- Awareness: Maintain awareness of your surroundings to quickly notice any suspicious activities.
- Zipper Security: Ensure all zippers are securely closed and items tucked inside pockets or bags.
- Valuables Hiding: Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash in visible areas.
8. Phony Guides at Historical Sites
Unauthorized guides might approach you at historical sites offering their services. Verify their credentials and choose official tour operators.
- Official Tour Operators: Look for authorized tour operators with proper licenses and uniforms.
- Credentials Verification: Ask to see the guide's license or certification before agreeing to their services.
- Group Tour Safety: Join group tours instead of solitary explorations for increased safety and company.
9. Overpriced Accommodation Rentals
Some landlords or rental agencies might overcharge tourists for accommodations. Research prices and compare before making a reservation.
- Price Comparison: Compare the price of accommodations with other similar options in the area.
- Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and ratings from previous guests to gauge the quality of the accommodation.
- Legal Contract: Ensure there is a written contract outlining terms and conditions before renting any property.
10. Street Food Scams
Some street food vendors may use substandard ingredients or overcharge tourists. Opt for popular and well-reviewed vendors.
- Popularity: Choose vendors with a long line of customers, indicating good quality food.
- Local Recommendations: Ask locals for their recommendations to find authentic and delicious street food.
- Price Check: Check the prices of popular dishes with other vendors in the area to avoid overpaying.
11. Counterfeit Art Sales
Be wary of purchasing art or handicrafts that seem too cheap. Research the market prices and verify authenticity before buying.
- Market Price Knowledge: Research common prices for local arts and crafts to avoid overpaying or purchasing fakes.
- Artist Verification: Ask about the artist's reputation and verify their authenticity by checking online portfolios or visiting art galleries.
- Certificate of Authenticity: Request a certificate of authenticity for your purchase to ensure its legitimacy.
12. Carnival Scams
Some carnival games are rigged or overpriced. Be cautious when participating and negotiate prices beforehand.
- Game Integrity: Ask around to find out if a game is honestly managed.
- Price Negotiation: Negotiate prices for games and prizes to avoid overpaying.
- Prize Worth: Consider the worth of the prize before participating in a game.
13. Fraudulent Charities
Some individuals or organizations may pose as charities to scam tourists. Research any charity before donating.
- Charity Verification: Look up the charity's name and check their registration status with local authorities.
- Donation Transparency: Ensure that your donation will go directly to those in need, not to intermediaries or administration costs.
- Local Partner Connections: Work with local organizations for a more direct and trustworthy impact.
14. Lottery Scams
Someone might approach you claiming you've won a lottery you didn't enter. Ignore these claims and do not provide any personal information.
- Unsolicited Contacts: Ignore unsolicited contacts or offers from unknown sources.
- Personal Information Safety: Never share personal information, including bank details or passport numbers, with strangers.
- Legitimate Lottery Research: Check with local authorities to confirm if any legitimate lotteries are taking place.
15. ATM Scams
Criminals might tamper with ATMs or skim your card information. Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers and cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
- ATM Location: Choose ATMs located in secure areas like banks or shopping centers.
- Card Safety: Keep your card in sight and cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
- Transaction Monitoring: Regularly monitor your account transactions for any unusual activity.