Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Mashhad, Iran
1. Taxi Scams
Avoid fixed-price taxis in Mashhad. Always use approved meters.
- Fixed Prices: Prices are often inflated without using a meter.
- Unapproved Taxis: These taxis may not have insurance or follow safety rules.
- Foreign Tourist Targeting: Foreign tourists are often targeted for overcharging.
2. Fake Guides
Avoid unofficial guides in Mashhad. Only use licensed guides.
- Unofficial Guides: They may charge exorbitant fees and provide misinformation.
- Licensed Guides: They are trained, knowledgeable, and follow legal guidelines.
- Foreign Tourist Targeting: Foreign tourists are often targeted for overcharging or misguiding.
3. Counterfeit Currency
Inspect banknotes carefully for signs of counterfeiting in Mashhad.
- Signs of Counterfeiting: Look for missing security features or poor printing quality.
- Money Exchange Scams: Be wary when exchanging money in informal settings.
- Electronic Payment Scams: Use secure payment methods like credit cards or reputable online services.
4. Souvenir Overpricing
Bargain for reasonable prices when shopping for souvenirs in Mashhad.
- Initial Prices: Prices are often inflated for tourists.
- Bargaining Skills: Improve your bargaining skills to get a fair price.
- Authenticity: Check for authenticity before making a purchase.
5. Sim Card Scams
Buy prepaid SIM cards from authorized dealers in Mashhad.
- Authorized Dealers: They provide genuine SIM cards and follow legal guidelines.
- Unauthorized Dealers: They may sell counterfeit or malfunctioning SIM cards.
- Sim Card Activation Scams: Be wary of anyone offering to activate your SIM card for a fee.
6. Street Food Risks
Avoid street food that looks unhygienic or is served by unlicensed vendors in Mashhad.
- Unhygienic Conditions: Food prepared in unsanitary conditions can cause illness.
- Licensed Vendors: They follow health and safety regulations.
- Traveler's Health: Stomach issues can spoil your travel experience.
7. Tourist Bus Scams
Avoid tourist buses that offer free rides or discounts in Mashhad.
- Free Rides: These offers often lead to shops where you're pressured to buy.
- Discounted Tours: Tours may be low-quality or overpriced later.
- Unlicensed Tour Operators: They may not have proper insurance or follow safety regulations.
8. Gold & Jewelry Scams
Avoid purchasing gold and jewelry from unlicensed vendors in Mashhad.
- Unlicensed Vendors: They may sell counterfeit or low-quality products.
- Authentication: Check for official hallmarks or certifications.
- Pricing: Prices may be inflated, and negotiation is common.
9. Car Rental Scams
Rent cars only from reputable agencies in Mashhad.
- Reputable Agencies: They provide good quality, reliable vehicles.
- Unlicensed Agencies: They may offer poor-quality or unsafe vehicles.
- Insurance: Ensure the car is fully insured for your protection.
10. Hotel Scams
Book hotels from reputable sources in Mashhad.
- Reputable Sources: They provide accurate information about the hotel.
- Unlicensed Hotels: They may be poorly maintained or unsafe.
- Online Reviews: Check online reviews for insights from other travelers.
11. Restaurant Scams
Avoid restaurants that offer 'free' meals or drinks in Mashhad.
- Free Offers: These offers often lead to overpriced bills or pressure to tip heavily.
- Menu Pricing: Check the prices before ordering, as they may be inflated.
- Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommended restaurants to ensure quality and fair pricing.
12. ATM Scams
Use ATMs in banks or shopping centers in Mashhad.
- Bank ATMs: They are more secure and less likely to have skimming devices.
- Shopping Center ATMs: They are also relatively safe, but use caution.
- Outdoor ATMs: They may have a higher risk of skimming or vandalism.
13. Shoe Polishing Scams
Be wary of shoe polishers who demand payment before cleaning in Mashhad.
- Payment Before Cleaning: They may clean only a small area and then demand a high fee.
- Shoe Repair Shops: Visit a reputable shoe repair shop for quality service.
- Appreciation of the Service: Tipping is appreciated, but it's important to agree on the price first.
14. Charity Scams
Be cautious when donating to street charities in Mashhad.
- Street Charities: They may misuse the donations or exploit the poor.
- Reputable Charities: Research charities to ensure they are trustworthy and efficient.
- Local Knowledge: Ask locals for recommendations on reputable charities.
15. Friendly Scams
Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering help or friendship in Mashhad.
- Overfriendliness: They may lead you to potentially dangerous situations.
- Scam Warning Signs: Watch for signs of scams, such as pressure or unusual generosity.
- Staying Safe: Trust your instincts and prioritize personal safety.