Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Mesa, Arizona, United States
1. Taxis from Mesa-Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport
Be cautious of unlicensed taxis outside the official taxi queue at Mesa-Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Use only licensed taxis or ride-sharing services for a safe and reliable ride.
- Recognizable Logo: Official licensed taxis display a recognizable logo and have their license number displayed.
- Safety Measures: Licensed taxis are equipped with safety measures such as seat belts and functioning emergency equipment.
- Payment Options: Official taxis accept various payment options, including credit cards and cash.
2. Downtown Mesa Street Performers
While enjoying street performances in downtown Mesa, beware of individuals asking for money who are not part of the performance. Stick to donating through official collection jars.
- Official Attire: Official performers wear attire that identifies them as part of a group or have name badges.
- Organized Setup: Official performances are set up with sound equipment and have a visible collection jar for donations.
- Local Information Desk: For any concerns or to confirm the legitimacy of a performance, visit the local information desk in downtown Mesa.
3. Lost Tourist Scam
Be wary of individuals offering help to lost tourists in Mesa. They may try to lead you to a shop or attraction and request payment for 'assistance'. Stay aware of your surroundings and use a reliable map or GPS.
- Reliable Navigation: Use a reliable navigation app or print out maps from a reputable source.
- Official Information Desk: Visit the official information desk at Mesa attractions for any questions or assistance.
- Emergency Services: Contact local emergency services if you feel threatened or need immediate help.
4. Fake Tour Guides
Some unauthorized individuals may offer tour services around Mesa, potentially leading to scams. Stick with registered and reputable tour companies for an enjoyable and safe experience.
- Official Registration: Registered tour guides display their official registration number or badge.
- Reputable Company: Research the tour company's reputation and read reviews before booking.
- Payment Security: Pay through secure channels, such as credit cards or reputable online platforms.
5. Attraction Entrance Scams
At some attractions in Mesa, unauthorized individuals may try to sell fake tickets or overcharge for entrance fees. Purchase your tickets only from the official booth or online ticket outlets.
- Official Ticket Booth: Buy tickets directly from the official ticket booth at the attraction.
- Online Tickets: Purchase tickets online through the attraction's official website or authorized ticket vendors.
- Overcharging Awareness: Know the standard ticket prices and be wary of anyone trying to sell tickets at a higher price.
6. Mesa Festival Scams
During Mesa festivals, some individuals may take advantage by pickpocketing or selling counterfeit merchandise. Keep your belongings secure and purchase items only from authorized vendors.
- Authorized Vendors: Buy festival merchandise and food from officially licensed vendors.
- Secure Location: Keep your belongings in a secure location, such as a backpack with a lock or a hidden money belt.
- Emergency Contacts: Carry emergency contact information and know local authorities' phone numbers for any issues.
7. Dining Establishment Scams
Some restaurants in Mesa may overcharge or serve low-quality food. Research popular dining spots and check online reviews before eating out.
- Online Reviews: Read online reviews from reliable sources to find good restaurants in Mesa.
- Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with other restaurants offering similar dishes to ensure fair pricing.
- Payment Security: Pay using credit cards or secure mobile payment apps for added security.
8. Accommodation Scams
Be cautious when booking accommodations in Mesa, as some listings may be fraudulent or low-quality. Use reputable booking sites and read reviews before making a reservation.
- Reputable Booking Sites: Book accommodations through reputable online travel agencies.
- Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews and ratings to ensure a positive guest experience.
- Payment Protection: Choose booking options that offer payment protection in case of cancellations or issues.
9. Car Rental Scams
When renting a car in Mesa, be wary of hidden fees, damaged vehicles, or fraudulent rental agencies. Use reputable companies and read the rental agreement carefully.
- Reputable Rental Companies: Rent a car from well-known and reputable car rental companies.
- Careful Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the rental vehicle for any damages before signing the agreement.
- Agreement Review: Read and understand the rental agreement to avoid hidden fees or charges.
10. Motel Scams
Some motels in Mesa may have poor conditions, overcharge, or engage in fraudulent activities. Stay at well-known and reputable motels for a safe and comfortable stay.
- Reputable Motels: Choose well-known and reputable motels to ensure a good stay.
- Cleanliness: Inspect the room for cleanliness and any potential safety hazards before unpacking.
- Payment Security: Pay using credit cards or secure mobile payment apps for added security.
11. Grocery Store Scams
Be wary of overcharging, expired items, or tampered products when shopping at grocery stores in Mesa. Shop at reputable chains and check expiration dates before purchasing.
- Reputable Chains: Shop at well-known and reputable grocery store chains.
- Expiration Dates: Check expiration dates on products before purchasing to ensure freshness.
- Payment Security: Pay using credit cards or secure mobile payment apps for added security.
12. Parking Scams
Some parking lots in Mesa may charge excessive fees or have unofficial attendants asking for payment. Use official city parking facilities or reputable garages.
- Official Parking Facilities: Use official city parking facilities or reputable garages.
- Payment Kiosks: Pay at a kiosk or meter instead of handing cash to unofficial attendants.
- Time Limits: Understand time limits and fees for each parking facility.
13. Public Transit Scams
When using public transit in Mesa, be wary of pickpocketing or unofficial ticket collectors. Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors and keep your belongings secure.
- Authorized Vendors: Purchase tickets only from authorized ticket vending machines or drivers.
- Secure Storage: Store your belongings securely in a backpack with a lock or a hidden money belt.
- Emergency Contacts: Carry emergency contact information and know local authorities' phone numbers for any issues.
14. ATM Scams
Some ATMs in Mesa may have skimming devices or charge excessive fees. Use ATMs located at banks or reputable businesses and be wary of any unusual equipment.
- Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located at banks or reputable businesses for added security.
- Observant Behavior: Check the ATM for any unusual equipment before using it and be observant of your surroundings.
- Transaction Limits: Understand transaction limits per day to avoid excessive fees or declined transactions.
15. Charity Scams
Some individuals may claim to be collecting for charity but are actually fraudulent. Verify the legitimacy of charities before donating or consider donating online.
- Verified Charities: Donate only to verified and reputable charities.
- Charity Registration: Look for official registration numbers or certifications of the charity.
- Secure Donation Methods: Donate online through the charity's secure website or authorized donation platforms.