Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Sevastopol, Sevastopol, Misto, Ukraine

1. Street Vendors Scam

Avoid overpriced or fake goods at unlicensed street vendors. Watch for exaggerated compliments to lure you in.

Pricing: Always ask for the price before negotiating.
Licensing: Check if vendors have city permits, usually visible on their stalls.
Location: Stick to well-visited and busy areas during daytime.

Avoid unofficial tour guides who offer discounted or free tours. They might lead you to overpriced shops.

Official Guides: Ensure your guide is officially licensed by the city.
Tour Routes: Ask about the tour route beforehand and be wary of unexpected stops at shops.
Payment Method: Pay only after the tour is completed and you're satisfied with the service.

Avoid street money exchangers. They might give less than agreed upon or exchange fake currency.

Location: Stick to established banks and authorized exchange offices.
Rates: Compare rates between different vendors before exchanging.
Documentation: Ensure the exchange office provides a receipt for the transaction.

Watch out for ticket inspectors asking for fines on unmarked buses or trams. They might be fraudulent.

Ticket Price: Always have exact change when boarding public transport.
Marked Vehicles: Only travel on clearly marked and numbered buses or trams.
Ticket Inspectors: Official inspectors carry an ID badge, wear a uniform, and provide proof of their role.

Avoid taxis without a meter or those that refuse to use it. They might overcharge or take longer routes.

Metered Taxis: Only use metered taxis and ensure the driver turns it on.
Licensing: Check for the taxi's license plate number and verify it matches the company's fleet.
Fare Estimation: Use apps or websites to estimate fares before traveling by taxi.

Avoid restaurants that have no customers. They might serve overpriced or poor quality food.

Location: Choose busy, popular restaurants with good reviews.
Menu Prices: Compare prices between different restaurants for similar meals.
Local Cuisine: Try authentic local dishes and avoid exotic, unknown items.

Avoid renting from private sellers who pressure you with a tour before showing the property.

Booking Platforms: Book through trusted online platforms or established accommodation providers.
Property Inspection: Inspect the property thoroughly before committing to rent.
Contract Review: Review the rental contract carefully and avoid signing anything unclear.

Avoid shops with no other customers. They might sell low-quality or fake goods.

Avoid unofficial mobile operators or street vendors selling SIM cards. They might provide poor service or overcharge.

Authorized Shops: Buy SIM cards from authorized shops, usually found in shopping centers.
Official Receipt: Always receive an official receipt for the transaction.
Service Quality: Check reviews online before purchasing a SIM card.

Avoid using ATMs located in isolated or poorly lit areas. They might have skimmers installed.

Location: Use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, busy areas.
ATM Security: Check the ATM for any unusual additions or tampering.
Covering the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.

Avoid bars that have no other customers. They might overcharge or serve watered-down drinks.

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded places like markets or tourist attractions.

Personal Belongings: Keep your belongings close and use anti-theft bags or pockets.
Valuables: Minimize the amount of cash and valuable items you carry.
Awareness: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Avoid paying extra fees for assistance with luggage or seating on the ferry.

Official Fees: Only pay official fees displayed at the ticket counter.
Luggage Handling: Handle your own luggage when boarding and disembarking the ferry.
Seating Arrangements: Choose your own seating and avoid offers for better seating in exchange for money.

Avoid internet cafes with no other customers. They might install keyloggers or spyware.

Location: Choose busy, popular internet cafes with good reviews.
Security Measures: Look for internet cafes with secure connections (HTTPS) and anti-virus software.
Payment Method: Pay only after using the computer and ensure no unauthorized charges.

Avoid city tours that offer discounted or free services. They might lead you to overpriced shops.

Official Tours: Ensure your tour is officially licensed by the city.
Tour Routes: Ask about the tour route beforehand and be wary of unexpected stops at shops.
Payment Method: Pay only after the tour is completed and you're satisfied with the service.