Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Fuyang, Anhui, China
1. Fuyang Taxi Scams
Watch out for drivers who refuse to use the meter or overcharge. Always agree on a price before starting your journey.
- Avoiding Fake Taxis: Recognize official taxis by their license plate and company logo.
- Bargaining Skills: Negotiate the price beforehand to avoid overcharging.
- Emergency Contact: Have the hotel or local embassy's contact information in case of issues.
2. Counterfeit Market Goods
Be wary of fake branded goods sold at markets. Only purchase items from reputable shops or stores.
- Recognizing Fakes: Learn to spot signs of counterfeit products such as low quality materials or missing serial numbers.
- Ask for Receipts: Always request receipts for your purchases to help verify their authenticity.
- Buy from Trusted Sources: Stick to shopping areas with a good reputation, or buy directly from the manufacturer when possible.
3. ATM Skimming
Thieves may install skimming devices on ATMs to steal your card information. Use machines in well-lit, busy areas and cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
- Recognizing Skimmers: Check for unusual attachments or devices on the ATM before using it.
- Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account balance and transaction history for unauthorized activity.
- Use Bank's ATMs: Use ATMs operated by your bank to reduce the risk of skimming.
4. Tourist Trap Restaurants
Some restaurants may overcharge tourists for food and drinks. Stick to recommended eateries or ask locals for suggestions.
- Recognizing Tourist Traps: Avoid areas with a high concentration of restaurants selling similar menus.
- Ask for Recommendations: Get advice from locals or your hotel staff about good, affordable eateries.
- Check Prices Before Ordering: Ask for price lists before ordering to avoid unexpectedly high bills.
5. Friendship Scams
Locals may offer friendship or romantic attention in exchange for money. Maintain a healthy skepticism and be cautious when meeting new people.
- Recognizing Friendship Scams: Be aware of individuals who quickly try to establish a close relationship and start asking for favors or money.
- Ask for Advice: Share your intentions with trusted friends or family members before meeting someone new.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your intuition and remove yourself from the situation.
6. Street Performer Scams
Some performers may insist on payment for entertainment that was not agreed upon. Only tip for exceptional performances and never feel obligated.
- Avoiding Unwanted Payments: Watch performances carefully to see if they try to trick you into paying.
- Negotiate Beforehand: Agree on a fee before the performance starts, if any payment is expected.
- Walk Away Politely: Politely decline performances that you do not wish to watch or don't want to pay for.
7. Ticket Scalping
Scalpers may try to sell fake or overpriced tickets for attractions and events. Buy tickets directly from authorized sources.
- Recognizing Fake Tickets: Check for official holograms, barcodes, and security features on the ticket.
- Ask for Official Receipts: Request a receipt when buying tickets to verify their authenticity.
- Buy Directly from Venue or Authorized Agents: Purchase tickets only from the official box office or authorized agents.
8. Unlicensed Guides
Unlicensed guides may offer cheaper services but lack the knowledge to provide a quality experience. Only use licensed guides for sightseeing tours.
- Recognizing Unlicensed Guides: Ask for identification and check for a valid guide license.
- Check with Local Tourism Board: Use tour companies recommended by the local tourism board for guided tours.
- Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from other travelers or your hotel staff for reputable guides.
9. Transportation Scams
Some buses and trains may offer 'express' services that charge higher fees but stop at fewer stations. Stick to regular transportation options.
- Recognizing Express Services: Check schedules and pricing for all transportation options before boarding.
- Ask for Clarification: Ask drivers or conductors about the route and destination if unsure.
- Stick to Established Routes: Opt for transportation services with a proven track record and regular schedules.
10. Accommodation Scams
Some accommodations may overcharge or offer subpar conditions. Research and book through trusted sources.
- Recognizing Overpriced Accommodations: Compare prices with other accommodations in the same area to identify overpricing.
- Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from fellow travelers or your hotel staff about good, affordable accommodations.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to understand the quality of service and conditions.
11. Sim Card Scams
Some phone shops may sell fake SIM cards or overcharge for services. Only buy from official retailers or your mobile network operator.
- Recognizing Fake SIM Cards: Check for the company logo, official packaging, and serial numbers on the SIM card.
- Ask for Official Receipts: Request a receipt when buying a SIM card to verify its authenticity.
- Buy Directly from Network Operators: Purchase SIM cards only from authorized retailers or your mobile network operator's stores.
12. Currency Exchange Scams
Some exchange centers may offer lower rates or charge hidden fees. Only use reputable exchange services.
- Recognizing Dishonest Exchange Centers: Look for licensed, official exchange centers with good reviews.
- Check Rates Beforehand: Compare exchange rates with other services in the area to identify better deals.
- Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt when exchanging currency to verify the transaction and rate.
13. Street Food Scams
Some street food vendors may use subpar ingredients or overcharge. Stick to popular, well-reviewed stands.
- Recognizing Unsanitary Conditions: Look for clean cooking areas and fresh ingredients.
- Ask for Recommendations: Get suggestions from locals or your hotel staff about good street food vendors.
- Check Prices Beforehand: Compare prices with other street food stands to avoid overpaying.
14. Bogus Charity Scams
Some people may pose as charity collectors but are actually scammers. Only donate to reputable charities or causes.
- Recognizing Bogus Collectors: Look for official identification and ask for more information about the charity.
- Donate Directly to Reputable Charities: Research charities before donating, or give directly through their official websites.
- Avoid Giving Cash: If possible, donate via check, credit card, or mobile payment to reduce the risk of theft.
15. Car Rental Scams
Some rental companies may charge hidden fees, offer damaged vehicles, or insist on high deposits. Research and compare providers before renting a car.
- Recognizing Dishonest Rental Companies: Check reviews from other customers to identify trustworthy rental companies.
- Compare Prices and Services: Research different rental providers and compare prices, services, and conditions.
- Inspect the Vehicle Beforehand: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for damage before renting to avoid charges later.