Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Jiexiu, Shanxi, China

1. Tourist Information Center Scam

Be wary of 'helpful' locals at the Tourist Information Center offering overpriced tours or selling fake tickets.

Official Center: Only trust information from the official Jiexiu Tourism Bureau.
Verified Tours: Always verify tour operators are registered with local authorities.
Authentic Tickets: Ensure tickets are from authorized vendors or the official websites of attractions.

Avoid unmarked taxis or those without a meter. Demand receipts for proof of payment.

Beware of cheap souvenirs or antiques that seem too good to be true; they may be fakes.

Genuine Shops: Shop at reputable stores in the city center.
Authentic Labels: Look for signs of authenticity, such as manufacturer labels or certifications.
Local Artisans: Support local artisans and craftspeople for genuine items.

Avoid street exchange booths; instead, use authorized banks or hotels for currency exchanges.

Authorized Exchanges: Choose banks and hotels for secure and legitimate transactions.
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates before finalizing the transaction.
Secure Environment: Ensure your surroundings are safe and secure during exchanges.

Be cautious of overly friendly vendors offering low prices; they may try to upsell or shortchange you.

Reputable Vendors: Shop at well-established market stalls with a good reputation.
Negotiate Prices: Bargain for prices, but be realistic and walk away if the vendor refuses to negotiate.
Inspect Goods: Thoroughly inspect your purchases before paying.

Avoid street food vendors with no customers; some may overprice their dishes.

Busy Vendors: Choose busy restaurants or street vendors with a steady stream of customers.
Menu Prices: Check the prices on menus before ordering to avoid unexpected surprises.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on affordable yet delicious eateries.

Be cautious of hotel deals that seem too good to be true; some hotels may be run-down or unsafe.

Reputable Hotels: Book your stay at well-known, reputable hotels.
Online Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before making a reservation.
Secure Lodgings: Ensure your lodgings have proper security measures in place.

Avoid unlicensed guides offering cheap services; they may take you to overpriced locations or scams.

Official Guides: Hire licensed and registered guides through the local tourism bureau.
Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from hotels, hostels or other reliable sources.
Verified Credentials: Check the guide's credentials and licenses before hiring them.

Be cautious of people collecting for charity in the streets; many may be scammers.

Official Charities: Only donate to officially recognized charities.
Proper Documentation: Ask for proper documentation proving the charity's legitimacy.
Secure Transactions: Donate through secure channels, such as online donations or at official collection points.

Avoid street vendors selling SIM cards; instead, purchase from authorized retailers.

Authorized Retailers: Buy your SIM card from authorized mobile carrier stores.
Data Packages: Check the prices and data packages offered before finalizing the purchase.
Proper ID Verification: Provide only your passport or other official identification during the SIM card purchase.

Be cautious when booking accommodations online; some listings may be fake or overpriced.

Reputable Sites: Book through trusted accommodation platforms.
Verified Listings: Check for verified listings with positive reviews from previous guests.
Secure Payments: Use secure payment methods, such as credit cards or trusted online payment services.

Beware of cheap or over-the-counter medications; they may be counterfeit.

Prescription Medication: Obtain prescription medication from licensed pharmacies only.
Brand Name Medications: Choose brand name medications over generic equivalents when possible.
Pharmacy Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from your hotel or local clinic.

Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas like tourist attractions and public transportation.

Secure Wallets: Use a money belt or wallet with a strap to secure your valuables.
Zippered Pockets: Keep your phone, passport, and cash in zippered pockets or bags.
Awareness: Remain aware of your surroundings and be cautious in crowded areas.

Avoid ATMs in isolated locations or those that seem tampered with; use well-lit and busy ATMs instead.

Well-Lit ATMs: Choose ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas.
Secure Transactions: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN and check for any suspicious devices around the machine.
Limited Withdrawals: Limit your withdrawals to what you need and monitor your account regularly.

Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks; they may be used for data theft.

Secure Connections: Use your mobile hotspot or a VPN when accessing sensitive information.
Public Wi-Fi Safety: Avoid logging into financial accounts or sharing personal details on public Wi-Fi.
Trusted Networks: Connect to known and trusted networks, such as those offered by hotels or coffee shops.