Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ba‘qūbah, Diyālá, Iraq

1. Money Changer Scams

Avoid unofficial money changers in crowded markets. Use authorized bureaus for best exchange rates.

Unauthorized Money Changers: They often give less currency than agreed.
Crowded Markets: Scammers thrive in confusion and busy areas.
Authorized Bureaus: They offer reliable exchange rates and customer protection.

Avoid taxis without meter. Always agree on fare before starting the journey.

Avoid guides who approach you unexpectedly. Use recommended and registered tour guides.

Unexpected Approach: May lead to high fees or misinformation.
Recommended Guides: They offer reliable service and fair pricing.
Registered Tour Guides: They have a license and are accountable for their service.

Avoid overpriced items. Know the local prices before bargaining.

Overpriced Items: Sellers may charge inflated prices for unsuspecting tourists.
Local Prices: Knowing the local market price helps in fair bargaining.
Negotiation Skills: Helps to get a reasonable price without overpaying.

Choose well-lit and crowded ATMs. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Buy sim cards at authorized stores. Avoid offers for 'cheap' or 'free' sim cards.

Avoid restaurants near tourist attractions. Look for local favorites.

Tourist Attraction Restaurants: They may overcharge and offer low-quality food.
Local Favorites: They offer authentic cuisine at reasonable prices.
Food Quality: Ensures a tasty and safe dining experience.

Be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering help. Limit personal information sharing.

Overly Friendly Strangers: They may be scammers trying to gain trust.
Personal Information Sharing: Limiting it can help prevent identity theft and fraud.
Caution: Helps to avoid falling for scams and frauds.

Book hotels from reputable sources. Check room charges beforehand.

Book excursions through reputable travel agencies. Confirm the details beforehand.

Reputable Travel Agencies: They offer secure and reliable services.
Excursion Details: Helps to avoid misinformation or hidden charges.
Safe and Enjoyable Excursions: Ensures a memorable and worry-free experience.

Always ask for identification. Never hand over valuables to strangers posing as police officers.

Ask for Identification: Helps to confirm their authenticity.
Never Hand Over Valuables: Police will not demand valuables on the spot.
Stay Calm and Collect Information: Helps to deal with potential scams effectively.

Choose trusted internet cafés. Avoid leaving personal items unattended.

Trusted Internet Cafes: They offer secure and reliable service.
No Unattended Personal Items: Prevents theft and loss of personal belongings.
Secure Internet Access: Protects against malware, hacking, and spying.

Rent cars from reputable car rental companies. Check the vehicle condition beforehand.

Reputable Car Rental Companies: They offer reliable service and secure cars.
Vehicle Condition: Ensures a safe and trouble-free journey.
Insurance Coverage: Protects you from potential accidents or damages.

Exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange centers. Avoid street vendors.

Banks and Authorized Exchange Centers: They offer reliable exchange rates and security.
Street Vendors: They may provide counterfeit or tampered currency.
Fair Exchange Rates: Ensures you get the best possible value for your money.

Only donate to reputable and recognized charities. Avoid street beggars and unsolicited collections.

Reputable Charities: They ensure your donation reaches the intended recipients.
Recognized Charities: They are registered and authorized to collect donations.
Avoid Street Beggars: Your donation may not reach the intended recipients.