Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Shenyang, Liaoning, China
1. Temple Street Scam
Street vendors may overcharge tourists for items or offer fake goods. Be wary of inflated prices and unverified merchandise.
- Price Negotiation: Always negotiate prices before purchasing.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in crowded areas for safety and avoid isolated streets or vendors without customers.
- Check for Authenticity: Look for official store seals, ask for receipts and confirm authenticity of goods.
2. Taxi Scam
Some taxis may refuse to use meters or overcharge tourists. Always agree on a price before starting the journey.
- Use Official Taxis: Only take taxis from official taxi stands or recognized companies.
- Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price before getting into the taxi.
- Check for Meter Functionality: Ensure that the taxi has a functioning meter and insist on using it.
3. Currency Exchange Scam
Unlicensed currency exchange vendors may offer poor rates. Use established banks or official money changers for safe and fair transactions.
- Check Exchange Rates: Always check the current exchange rate before making transactions.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Exchange money in safe and busy areas, preferably during daylight hours.
- Use Reputable Establishments: Choose licensed banks or recognized currency exchange offices.
4. Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed tour guides may provide poor service or lead tourists to fraudulent shops. Use licensed tour operators for a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Check for Licenses: Always ask your guide for their license and verify it.
- Use Reputable Tour Operators: Choose licensed tour operators with positive reviews.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in crowded areas for safety and avoid isolated streets or attractions without other tourists.
5. Sim Card Scam
Unlicensed sim card vendors may sell locked or invalid sim cards. Purchase sim cards from official stores for reliable communication.
- Check for Functionality: Test the sim card before leaving the store to ensure it works properly.
- Use Official Stores: Only purchase sim cards from official stores or recognized vendors.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Purchase sim cards in safe and busy areas, preferably during daylight hours.
6. Bar Scam
Some bars may overcharge tourists or serve watered-down drinks. Research popular bars with good reviews and stick to them.
- Check for Reviews: Always check the bar's reviews before visiting.
- Negotiate Prices Beforehand: Ask for price lists and negotiate prices before ordering drinks.
- Stick to Popular Areas: Stay in busy areas known for their nightlife scene for safety and better service.
7. Fake Food Scam
Some restaurants may serve fake or lower quality food. Research popular restaurants with good reviews and stick to them.
- Check for Reviews: Always check the restaurant's reviews before visiting.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in crowded areas known for their food scene for safety and better service.
- Check Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with other restaurants to avoid overpriced items.
8. ATM Scam
Some ATMs may skim your card or offer a fake machine. Use ATMs in banks for safe and reliable transactions.
- Choose Bank ATMs: Always use ATMs located inside banks for maximum safety.
- Cover Pin Entry: Cover your PIN while entering to prevent anyone from seeing it.
- Monitor Account Activity: Check your account balance and transactions regularly for any unauthorized activities.
9. Hotel Scam
Some hotels may overcharge tourists or provide poor service. Research hotels with good reviews and book through reliable sources.
- Check for Reviews: Always check the hotel's reviews before booking.
- Use Reputable Booking Sites: Book through reputable booking sites or directly with the hotel.
- Inspect the Room upon Arrival: Inspect the room for any damages or missing items before settling in.
10. Street Performer Scam
Some street performers may aggressively solicit money or offer fake goods. Watch performances from a distance and avoid interacting directly.
- Watch from a Distance: Always watch performances from a safe distance.
- Avoid Interaction: Do not interact directly with the performer, especially if they seem pushy or aggressive.
- Check for Authenticity: If offered goods, verify their authenticity before purchasing.
11. Friendly Scammer
Locals may approach tourists pretending to be friendly and offer help or assistance. Be cautious and trust your instincts.
- Be Cautious of Overly Friendly Locals: Be aware that some locals may use friendliness as a means to scam tourists.
- Trust Your Instincts: Always trust your instincts and avoid situations that seem suspicious or unsafe.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in crowded areas for safety and avoid isolated streets or attractions without other tourists.
12. Beggar Scam
Some beggars may use emotional manipulation to get money. Do not give money directly but instead donate to reputable charities.
- Avoid Direct Donations: Do not give money directly to beggars.
- Donate to Reputable Charities: Find reputable charities and donate through them instead.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Always stay aware of your surroundings to avoid falling victim to other scams.
13. Photography Scam
Some photographers may claim copyright infringement for taking photos without permission. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or places.
- Ask for Permission: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or places.
- Respect Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions when taking photos.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings to avoid falling victim to other scams.
14. Pickpocketing Scam
Pickpockets may target tourists in crowded areas. Keep your belongings close and secure them in a zippered bag or pouch.
- Keep Belongings Secure: Always keep your belongings secure and close to you.
- Secure Your Bag or Pouch: Use a bag or pouch with a zipper for extra security.
- Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Always stay aware of your surroundings to avoid falling victim to other scams.
15. Counterfeit Goods Scam
Some shops may sell counterfeit goods, such as clothing or electronics. Research the prices and quality of popular brands before purchasing.
- Research Prices and Quality: Always research the prices and quality of popular brands before making purchases.
- Check for Authenticity: Look for official store seals, ask for receipts and confirm authenticity of goods.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Purchase goods in safe and busy areas, preferably during daylight hours.