Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Lapu-Lapu City, Lapu-Lapu, Philippines

All Topics about Lapu-Lapu City All Cities in Philippines

1. Overpriced Taxis Scam

Avoid overpaying for taxis by using meter or negotiating price beforehand.

Meter Usage: Ensure taxi uses meter to charge fair prices.
Know Fare Rates: Learn standard taxi fare rates in Lapu-Lapu City.
Avoid Peak Hours: Avoid traveling during peak hours to prevent overcharging.

Buy genuine souvenirs from reputable shops to support local artisans and get authentic keepsakes.

Reputable Shops: Purchase items from well-known, established souvenir shops.
Ask for Quality Assurance: Inquire about the authenticity and quality of souvenirs before purchasing.
Street Market Caveat: Be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit items, but some may sell genuine souvenirs too.

Exchange money only at authorized money changers or banks to avoid receiving counterfeit currency.

Authorized Money Changer or Bank: Exchange money at officially recognized money changers or banks.
Check Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates before changing money to get a fair deal.
Count Money Carefully: Count and double-check the money you receive to avoid receiving less than agreed.

Enjoy street food safely by choosing well-known vendors and following food safety guidelines.

Well-known Vendors: Choose street food vendors who are popular among locals.
Food Safety Guidelines: Check if the vendor follows proper food handling and storage procedures.
Watch for Hygiene Practices: Observe vendors' hygiene practices, such as wearing gloves and using clean utensils.

Protect your bank information by choosing well-lit, secure ATMs and covering the keypad while entering your PIN.

Well-lit and Secure ATM: Choose ATMs that are located in well-lit areas and have security cameras.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN to prevent potential scammers from seeing it.
Monitor Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your bank account for any unauthorized transactions.

Book accommodations in advance and research hotel reviews to ensure a hassle-free stay.

Booking in Advance: Reserve your accommodations well ahead of time to avoid potential scams.
Hotel Reviews: Check hotel reviews from multiple sources to find a reputable and reliable place to stay.
Contact the Hotel Directly: Directly contact the hotel for any clarifications or concerns about your reservation.

Avoid trusting strangers offering help or friendships too quickly. Be cautious and verify their intentions.

Caution with Strangers: Remain alert when interacting with strangers, especially in tourist areas.
Verify Intentions: Ask for proper identification and verify their intentions before sharing personal information or accepting assistance.
Inform Local Authorities: Contact local authorities if you suspect someone is trying to scam you.

Ask for menu prices in advance and ensure the bill matches before paying.

Ask for Menu Prices: Request price lists for food and drinks before ordering.
Check the Bill Carefully: Thoroughly check your bill for any incorrect or extra charges before paying.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices for meals, especially at street food vendors or small restaurants.

Choose a licensed tour guide or book tours through reputable agencies to ensure you receive quality service.

Licensed Tour Guides: Select tour guides who have proper licenses and are recommended by trusted sources.
Reputable Agencies: Book tours through established, reputable travel agencies.
Research Tour Destinations: Research the tour destinations and attractions to ensure they are legitimate.

Research tour prices in advance and negotiate with tour operators for fair pricing.

Research Tour Prices: Learn the standard prices for tours before booking to avoid being overcharged.
Negotiate with Operators: Negotiate tour prices with operators to find a fair deal.
Check for Additional Fees: Ask about any additional fees, such as entrance fees or transportation costs, before booking a tour.

Only use beach umbrellas provided by reputable rental services to avoid potential scams.

Rental Services Reputation: Choose rental services with a good reputation and positive customer reviews.
Ask for Rental Agreement: Request a clear, written agreement before using beach umbrellas or chairs.
Check the Umbrella Markings: Ensure beach umbrellas have proper identification markings and are clearly visible.

Purchase alcohol from licensed stores or reputable vendors to avoid consuming counterfeit drinks.

Licensed Stores: Buy alcohol from licensed liquor stores or bars.
Check Bottle Seals: Ensure bottle seals are intact and not tampered with before purchasing.
Inspect Labels Carefully: Examine labels for any misspellings, inconsistencies, or other signs of counterfeit products.

Be wary of unsolicited emails and messages asking for personal information. Do not click on links or provide sensitive data.

Avoid Unsolicited Emails: Do not open or respond to suspicious emails or messages.
Secure Internet Connection: Use a secure internet connection when accessing financial information online.
Report Phishing Attempts: Report any suspected phishing attempts to local authorities or your bank.

Be aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure while in crowded areas.

Stay Alert: Remain alert in crowded places where pickpocketing is common.
Secure Belongings: Keep personal belongings secure and hidden from view.
Avoid Wearing Expensive Jewelry: Limit wearing expensive jewelry or accessories to minimize attracting unwanted attention.

Thoroughly inspect rental cars before driving and research rental companies to ensure a reliable vehicle.

Inspect Rental Cars: Carefully inspect rental cars for any damages before accepting them.
Research Rental Companies: Choose reputable car rental companies with positive customer reviews.
Check Car Insurance Coverage: Confirm insurance coverage for the rental car and understand any additional fees or requirements.