Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Port Said, Būr Sa‘īd, Egypt

1. Street Vendors Scam

Avoid overpriced goods or counterfeit items from street vendors. Prices can be inflated or fake products sold.

Price Check: Compare prices at multiple vendors before buying.
Bargain Skill: Negotiate the price to get a fair deal.
Authenticity Confirmation: Look for official shops or brands to ensure authentic goods.

Some taxi drivers might take longer routes or overcharge. Be aware of unofficial taxis.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer cheap services but lead to overpriced attractions or shops.

Licensed Guide: Ask for a licensed guide, either from the local tourist office or a reputable tour company.
Attraction Research: Research attractions and their prices beforehand to avoid overpaying.
Reputable Company: Book tours with reputable companies to minimize the risk of scams.

Be cautious of friendly strangers offering help or inviting you somewhere, as they may lead to scams or dangers.

Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts and avoid the situation.
Stick with Trusted Companions: Stay in groups or travel with trusted companions.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter suspicious activity, report it to local authorities or your embassy.

Restaurants might overcharge tourists for food and drinks. Check prices before ordering.

Menu Prices: Look for a menu with listed prices before ordering.
Local Prices: Compare the prices of food and drinks to what locals are paying.
Payment Method: Pay with local currency to avoid exchange rate issues.

Some sellers may provide an unactivated or expired SIM card. Buy from reputable shops only.

Activation Confirmation: Confirm that the SIM card is activated and functional.
Official Shop: Buy from official shops or telecom company outlets to minimize risks.
Data Package: Ensure the SIM card comes with a data package if needed.

Some exchange offices may give you less currency or counterfeit money. Use reputable exchanges.

Official Exchange Offices: Exchange money at official banks, hotels, or authorized exchange offices.
Currency Verification: Verify the authenticity of the exchanged currency before leaving the exchange office.
Rate Comparison: Compare rates at multiple exchange offices to get a fair deal.

Some hotels or hostels may overcharge tourists. Research and book in advance.

Online Booking: Book accommodation online through trusted platforms to avoid overpaying.
Local Price Comparison: Compare prices with local rates or what other travelers are paying.
Reputation: Stay at reputable accommodations to minimize the risk of scams.

Some people may find a 'lost' item of yours and ask for compensation. Ignore such requests.

Discard Lost Items: If you lose an item, avoid attempting to recover it.
Avoid Giving Money: Never give money to strangers for 'finding' your lost items.
Contact Authorities: Report any lost items to local authorities or embassy.

Some ferry operators may overcharge for tickets or refuse service without a ticket. Buy in advance and check prices.

Advance Booking: Book your ferry tickets in advance through trusted platforms or travel agencies.
Official Ticket Price: Ensure you're paying the official ticket price.
Avoid Buying from Strangers: Never buy ferry tickets from strangers or unofficial sellers.

Skimming devices can be placed on ATMs to steal card information. Use well-lit and secure ATMs.

Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your accounts for any unauthorized transactions.

Some tourist attractions may overcharge tourists. Research prices in advance.

Advance Research: Research the cost of local sights and compare with what locals pay.
Official Entrance Price: Ensure you're paying the official entrance price.
Reputable Tour Operators: Book tours with reputable tour operators to avoid overpaying.

Some car rental companies may try to sell damaged cars or charge for damages already present.

Some beggars may pretend to be in need but are part of organized scams. Be cautious and help responsibly.

Local Charities: Donate to local charities instead of giving money directly.
Avoid Alleyways: Avoid dark alleyways and potentially dangerous areas.
Help Responsibly: If you choose to help, do so cautiously and safely.

Some people may ask for money in exchange for allowing photography. Be aware of local customs.

Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions regarding photography.
Free Photography: Ask permission before taking photos, and do not offer money unless it is customary.
Report Unusual Requests: If someone asks for an unreasonable amount of money for photography, report the situation.