Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kanpur, India

1. Rickshaw Rides Scam

Watch out for overpriced rickshaw rides, especially near tourist spots. Negotiate the price before starting.

Price Gouging: Rickshaw drivers often charge tourists exorbitant prices.
Avoiding Negotiation: Some drivers refuse to negotiate, demanding high fees.
Unfamiliarity with Locations: Tourists may not know the fair price for rickshaw rides.

Be cautious of taxis posing as auto-rickshaws offering cheaper fares. These vehicles are often unlicensed and overpriced.

Be aware of watered-down or fake versions of popular street foods. Look for busy stalls with good reviews.

Watered Down Foods: Some vendors may use less expensive ingredients.
Fake Street Foods: Unscrupulous vendors may sell counterfeit food.
Foodborne Illness Risks: Eating contaminated street food can cause foodborne illnesses.

Some hotels and homestays may overcharge tourists for subpar accommodations. Research prices and read reviews before booking.

Poor Quality Accommodations: The accommodations may not meet the standard promised.
Overcharging: Tourists may be charged more than local residents for the same rooms.
False Advertising: Some properties may falsely advertise their amenities or services.

Be wary of unofficial tour guides promising discounts. Insist on a licensed guide to ensure a quality experience.

Unlicensed Guides: These guides may not have the necessary knowledge or training.
Discount Scams: Some unofficial guides may offer discounts but provide poor service.
Safety Concerns: Touring with an unlicensed guide can be risky, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Beware of fake or low-quality souvenirs being sold at inflated prices. Buy from reputable shops or markets.

Counterfeit Goods: The souvenirs may be copied, poor quality, or even dangerous.
Inflated Prices: Tourists are often charged more for souvenirs than locals.
Lack of Authenticity: Some souvenirs may not accurately represent Kanpur's culture or history.

Be cautious when exchanging currency, as some exchange offices may offer unfavorable rates. Research rates beforehand.

Unfavorable Exchange Rates: The exchange rate offered may be significantly worse than the market rate.
Hidden Fees: Some exchange offices may charge additional, hidden fees.
Unsafe Exchange Locations: Exchanging currency in secluded or unregulated areas can be risky.

Avoid buying SIM cards from street vendors. Go to authorized mobile network stores for a legitimate purchase.

Faulty or Stolen SIM Cards: Street-bought SIM cards may be faulty, stolen, or used in fraudulent activities.
Unauthorized Access: Unauthorized access to your device can compromise personal information and privacy.
Lack of Support: Authorized stores offer support for SIM card-related issues, unlike street vendors.

Beware of tuk-tuks offering tours at low prices. These vehicles are often overpriced and may not deliver on their promises.

Overcharging: The fares for the tuk-tuk rides are usually higher than expected.
Unfulfilled Tour Promises: Tourists may be taken to poorly maintained or closed attractions.
Safety Risks: Riding in an unlicensed tuk-tuk can pose safety risks.

Be wary of people offering help with luggage or tickets at bus stations. Stick to authorized ticket counters and handle your own bags.

Overcharging for Tickets: Unauthorized ticket sellers may charge more than the regular price.
Lost or Stolen Belongings: Handing over your luggage to strangers increases the risk of losing or having it stolen.
Safety Concerns: Bus stations can be busy and chaotic, making it easy for pickpockets to operate.

Be cautious when buying transportation tickets from street vendors. Always use authorized ticket booths.

Counterfeit or Faulty Tickets: Street-bought tickets may be fake, expired, or invalid.
Overcharging for Tickets: Street vendors often charge more than the regular ticket price.
Lack of Support: Authorized booths offer support for ticket-related issues, unlike street vendors.

Be cautious when approached by people asking for donations. Research local charities and their causes before giving.

Fraudulent Charities: Some organizations may use donations for personal gain instead of the intended cause.
Pressure Tactics: Scammers may pressure you into giving money or goods immediately.
Lack of Transparency: Some charities may lack transparency about how donations are used.

Be aware of taxis refusing to use meters or demanding higher fares. Always agree on a price before starting the ride.

Price Gouging: Taxis may charge tourists more than locals for the same rides.
Refusal to Use Meters: Some taxi drivers refuse to use meters, demanding a higher fare instead.
Unsafe Driving Practices: Taxis may engage in unsafe driving practices to save time or earn more money.

Be cautious when approached by strangers offering help or assistance. They may be trying to scam you.

Scams Disguised as Help: Strangers may offer help with directions, luggage, or other tasks, but have ulterior motives.
Distraction Tactics: Scammers may distract you while an accomplice steals from you or pickpockets your belongings.
Personal Safety Risks: Accepting help from strangers can pose personal safety risks, especially for women and solo travelers.

Watch out for scammers targeting you at bus stands. Be cautious when buying tickets or interacting with strangers.

Overcharging for Tickets: Unauthorized ticket sellers may charge more than the regular price.
Counterfeit or Faulty Tickets: Street-bought tickets may be fake, expired, or invalid.
Scams Disguised as Help: Strangers may offer help with directions, luggage, or other tasks, but have ulterior motives.