Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Mbuji-Mayi, Congo (Kinshasa)

1. Taxis Moto Scams

Avoid overpriced motorcycle taxis by negotiating the fare before riding.

Price Negotiation: Bargain for a fair price to avoid being overcharged.
Knowledgeable Guides: Trust only recommended guides or use apps with set prices.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-lit and crowded areas to minimize the risk of scams.

Identify real police officers by their official uniform and ID cards.

Official Uniform: Look for the specific colors, insignia, and equipment of a police officer.
ID Card Verification: Ask to see their ID cards if unsure.
Stay Safe in Groups: Travel with others and stay aware of your surroundings.

Use reputable exchange locations or banks to avoid receiving fake bills.

Reputable Locations: Exchange money in banks, hotels, or recommended exchange offices.
Check Bills Carefully: Inspect the bills for any signs of tampering or irregularities.
Keep Small Amounts: Carry small amounts of cash to minimize your losses if scammed.

Be cautious around friendly strangers who offer help or directions.

Stay Alert: Trust your instincts and be aware of potential scams.
Ask Locals for Directions: Ask for directions from local police officers or reputable shops.
Travel in Groups: Stay with others and stick together to minimize the risk of scams.

Verify tour guides through a travel agency or reputable service.

Use Reputable Services: Book tours through established and recommended agencies.
Check Credentials: Ask for identification and credentials from the tour guide.
Research Destinations: Research popular tourist destinations before visiting.

Give sparingly to avoid encouraging dependency and potential danger.

Donate Responsibly: Support local organizations that help the needy instead of giving directly.
Stay Aware: Stay vigilant and avoid giving in isolated or dimly lit areas.
Trust Your Instincts: Use your judgment and trust your instincts when deciding to give.

Bargain for fair prices and check items before purchasing.

Price Negotiation: Negotiate the price to get a fair deal.
Check Quality: Inspect items for quality before purchasing.
Ask Locals for Prices: Compare prices with other shops or ask locals for the fair price.

Book accommodations through reputable online services or agencies.

Use Reputable Services: Book accommodations through established and recommended online services.
Check Reviews: Read reviews of the accommodation before booking.
Inspect Before Committing: Visit and inspect the accommodations before committing.

Avoid street food vendors and opt for reputable restaurants.

Reputable Restaurants: Eat at reputable restaurants to minimize the risk of contaminated or counterfeit food.
Cooked Food Only: Avoid eating uncooked or undercooked foods to reduce the chance of contamination.
Stick with Familiar Dishes: Choose dishes you're familiar with to minimize the risk of an upset stomach.

Use ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas and cover your hand while entering PIN.

Secure Locations: Choose ATMs located in banks, hotels, or other secure locations.
Cover Your Hand: Cover your hand while entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your account activity for any suspicious transactions.

Purchase gold and gemstones from reputable dealers and check for authenticity.

Use Reputable Dealers: Buy gold and gemstones from established and recommended dealers.
Authenticity Checks: Check the authenticity of gold and gemstones with a professional appraiser.
Negotiate Fair Prices: Bargain for fair prices to avoid overpaying.

Purchase tickets from reputable sources or authorized agents.

Use Reputable Sources: Buy tickets from established and recommended sources.
Check for Authenticity: Inspect tickets for authenticity before using them.
Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying tickets from street vendors or unauthorized agents.

Protect your credit card information and personal data by being cautious.

Secure Payment Methods: Use secure payment methods like credit cards instead of cash.
Limit Card Usage: Limit the use of your credit card and avoid using it in suspicious locations.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your account activity for any suspicious transactions.

Avoid using internet cafés and use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi.

Rent cars from reputable companies and inspect the vehicle before driving.

Use Reputable Companies: Rent cars from established and recommended car rental companies.
Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any damages before driving.
Check Contract Details: Carefully review the contract and ask questions if unclear.