Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Augusta, Georgia, United States
1. Savannah Riverfront Scam
Be wary of individuals offering to guide you on a river tour without proper licensing. Stick to reputable tour operators.
- Unlicensed Guides: These guides often charge exorbitant fees and may not follow safety regulations.
- Overpriced Tours: Legitimate tour operators offer transparent pricing.
- Safety Risks: Unlicensed tours can lead to dangerous situations due to lack of proper equipment and training.
2. Fake Souvenir Shops Scam
Some shops sell counterfeit or low-quality souvenirs. Buy from established stores or the Visitor's Center for authentic items.
- Counterfeit Items: These goods can lead to disappointment and wasted money.
- Quality Issues: Low-quality souvenirs may not last long or break easily.
- Supporting Local Economy: Buying from reputable stores helps support local artisans and businesses.
3. Parking Meter Scam
Some parking spaces may have signs indicating payment is required, but there are no actual meters. Use official city parking lots or look for unmetered spaces.
- Fake Parking Meters: These false meters collect money without providing any service.
- Fines and Towing: Ignoring parking rules can lead to fines or your vehicle being towed.
- Time-Wasting: Searching for real parking meters can consume valuable time during your visit.
4. Taxi Scam
Some taxis may overcharge or take longer routes. Use regulated taxi services like Checker Cab or Yellow Cab.
- Overcharging: Regulated taxi companies have set fares and should not charge more than the meter indicates.
- Unsafe Vehicles: Illegal taxis may have poor maintenance, putting you at risk.
- Route Manipulation: Some unregulated drivers may take longer routes to increase fares.
5. Street Performance Scam
Buskers performing in popular areas might ask for donations aggressively. Appreciate their talents but don't feel obligated to give large amounts.
- Aggressive Solicitation: Some performers can be pushy or intimidating, making it uncomfortable for bystanders.
- Talent Variability: The quality of street performances varies greatly; some are excellent, while others may not meet expectations.
- Scarcity of Cash: Carry small bills for donations to avoid overpaying or being unable to contribute.
6. Peddler Scam
Street vendors may sell counterfeit items or overprice goods. Only buy from authorized vendors in Augusta's Market at the Riverwalk.
- Counterfeit Items: These goods can lead to disappointment and wasted money.
- Quality Issues: Low-quality items may not last long or break easily.
- Authorized Vendors: Buying from authorized vendors ensures you are getting genuine products.
7. Free Tour Scam
Some 'free' tours may ask for large tips or charge hidden fees. Opt for reputable tour operators offering transparent pricing.
- Hidden Fees: Tours that seem free may end up costing more due to additional charges.
- Lack of Quality: Free tours may not provide the same level of service and expertise as paid options.
- Unlicensed Guides: These guides often lack the knowledge and resources to offer a comprehensive tour experience.
8. ATM Scam
Some ATMs in Augusta may charge high fees or skim card information. Use ATMs inside banks or reputable stores.
- High Fees: ATMs outside of banks or stores may charge higher transaction fees.
- Skimming Devices: These devices can capture card information during transactions, leading to fraudulent activity.
- Cash Availability: ATMs inside banks or reputable stores are less likely to run out of cash.
9. Charity Scam
Some individuals may pose as charity collectors but keep the donations for themselves. Donate directly to reputable charities or contact local Augusta organizations.
- Fraudulent Collectors: These individuals may not be affiliated with a legitimate charity.
- Lack of Transparency: Donating to unverified organizations can make it difficult to track how funds are used.
- Supporting the Community: Directly donating to local charities helps support Augusta's most vulnerable residents.
10. Lottery Scam
Unsolicited phone calls or emails claiming you've won a lottery require payment to claim the prize. Ignore these scams and report them to authorities.
- Payment Requirements: Legitimate lotteries do not require upfront payments.
- Personal Information Collection: Scammers may collect personal information for identity theft or other fraudulent activities.
- Lottery Fraud Prevention: Reporting scams helps prevent others from falling victim to these schemes.
11. Internet Café Scam
Some internet cafes may install keyloggers or other malware on computers. Use your own device or a trusted VPN when accessing sensitive information.
- Keylogger Risks: These programs capture keystrokes to steal passwords and personal information.
- Malware Infections: Infected computers can harm your device or collect sensitive data.
- Data Security: Using your own device or a trusted VPN ensures better protection of your personal information.
12. Wi-Fi Hotspot Scam
Unsecured Wi-Fi hotspots can allow hackers to access your device or personal information. Only use password-protected networks when available.
- Data Interception: Unsecured Wi-Fi allows hackers to intercept data transmitted over the network.
- Malware Infections: Infected networks can harm your device or collect sensitive data.
- Password Protection: Using password-protected networks helps secure your personal information and devices.
13. Car Rental Scam
Some car rental companies may charge hidden fees or provide damaged vehicles. Choose well-established rental services like Enterprise, Hertz, or Avis.
- Hidden Fees: Rental companies that seem affordable may end up costing more due to additional charges.
- Vehicle Condition: Damaged vehicles can lead to costly repairs or accidents.
- Reputable Services: Choosing well-established rental services ensures a better customer experience.
14. Accommodation Scam
Some short-term rental properties may have misleading listings or hidden fees. Book with trusted platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.
- Misleading Listings: Listings may not accurately represent the property, leading to disappointment.
- Hidden Fees: Rentals that seem affordable may end up costing more due to additional charges.
- Reputable Platforms: Booking with trusted platforms ensures a better customer experience.
15. Restaurant Scam
Some restaurants may serve poor-quality food or add unnecessary charges. Dine at reputable establishments or ask for recommendations.
- Quality of Food: Restaurants that seem affordable may serve low-quality food.
- Hidden Charges: Some restaurants may add unnecessary fees to the bill.
- Reputable Establishments: Dining at reputable restaurants ensures a better dining experience.