Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Shanwei, China

1. Taxi Overcharging

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by using meter or negotiating price beforehand.

Meter Usage: Ensure the taxi uses a meter to calculate fare.
Negotiation: Agree on a price before starting the journey if no meter is available.
Knowledge of Fare Estimates: Be aware of average taxi fares in Shanwei to avoid overpaying.

Stay away from unofficial markets selling 'bargain' goods, as they may be counterfeit.

Shop at Official Stores: Purchase items only from authorized retailers.
Check for Quality: Inspect goods closely to spot poor craftsmanship or inconsistent branding.
Ask for Receipts: Always ask for receipts when making a purchase, as they can serve as proof of authenticity.

Protect your bank card and PIN when using ATMs to avoid card skimming or theft.

Use Well-Lit Areas: Choose well-lit, busy locations for using ATMs.
Cover PIN Entry: Cover your hand while entering your PIN to prevent anyone from seeing it.
Check ATM for Tampering: Inspect the ATM for any signs of tampering before using it.

Verify tour guides' credentials and choose reputable agencies to ensure a safe and educational experience.

Check Licenses: Ask for the guide's tour guide license.
Research Tour Companies: Look up reviews and ratings of tour companies before booking a tour.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from locals or travel agencies you trust.

Choose well-known street food vendors and avoid eating food that appears expired.

Find Busy Vendors: Look for street food vendors with many customers to ensure freshness.
Check Food Preparation: Inspect the cleanliness of the preparation area before eating.
Avoid Suspicious Foods: Stay away from food that appears old, moldy, or otherwise unappetizing.

Be cautious when using public internet cafes to protect your personal information.

Use a VPN: Always use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) while accessing sensitive information.
Avoid Bank Transactions: Avoid making bank transactions or accessing your bank account on public computers.
Change Passwords Regularly: Change passwords regularly and use strong, unique passwords for each account.

Book accommodations through reputable sites or agencies to avoid fraudulent listings.

Choose Reputable Websites: Book accommodations on well-known travel websites.
Read Reviews: Check the accommodation's reviews and ratings before booking.
Contact Host Directly: Directly contact the host or property manager to confirm details.

Purchase tickets from official outlets to avoid paying inflated prices for events and attractions.

Buy at Official Box Offices: Buy tickets directly from the event or attraction's box office.
Check for Authorized Sellers: Look for authorized ticket sellers and avoid street vendors.
Book in Advance: Book tickets in advance to secure lower prices and avoid scalpers.

Avoid unlicensed massage parlors to prevent exploitation or unsafe practices.

Check for Licenses: Verify that the massage parlor has a valid license.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals or trusted sources for reputable massage parlors.
Inspect the Parlor: Check the cleanliness and overall condition of the massage parlor before entering.

Exchange money at reputable exchange centers or banks to avoid receiving counterfeit currency.

Choose Reputable Exchange Centers: Exchange money at established exchange centers or banks.
Count Your Money: Count your exchanged currency immediately to ensure the correct amount.
Check for Security Features: Inspect the new notes for security features, such as watermarks and holograms.

Negotiate prices with rickshaw drivers before starting your journey to avoid overpaying.

Ask for Quotes: Get quotes from multiple rickshaw drivers before choosing one.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate the price with the driver before starting your journey.
Know Average Costs: Research average rickshaw costs in Shanwei to avoid overpaying.

Be cautious when donating money to street charity collectors and verify their authenticity.

Check for Official Uniforms: Look for charity workers wearing official uniforms.
Ask for Proof of Registration: Ask the collector for proof of registration and verify their authenticity.
Research Local Charities: Research local charities and donate directly to them.

Use established translation agencies or services for accurate translations.

Research Translation Agencies: Choose translation agencies with good reviews and ratings.
Check Certifications: Ensure the agency or translator has proper certifications.
Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals, travel agencies, or other trusted sources.

Choose well-known tour companies for safe and enjoyable tours and activities.

Check Reviews: Check reviews and ratings of the tour company before booking.
Ask About Safety Measures: Ask about safety measures and precautions taken by the tour company.
Verify Licenses and Certifications: Confirm that the tour company has valid licenses and certifications.

Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks to protect your personal information.

Use a VPN: Always use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) while accessing sensitive information.
Avoid Bank Transactions: Avoid making bank transactions or accessing your bank account on public Wi-Fi networks.
Secure Your Device: Keep your device's software and antivirus up to date to protect against malware.