Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Baoshan, Yunnan, China

All Topics about Baoshan All Cities in China

1. Taxi Scams

Unlicensed taxis may overcharge or take longer routes. Avoid this by using licensed taxis only.

Licensed Taxis: Official taxis are easily identified by their license number and logo on the car.
Meter Use: Legitimate taxi rides should always use a meter for fare calculation.
Avoid Late Night Travel: If possible, avoid traveling alone at night to minimize risk of scams or safety issues.

Some markets sell counterfeit goods. Be cautious and verify authenticity before purchasing.

Price Point: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
No Official Receipt: Legitimate sellers will provide a receipt for your purchase.
Inspection: Examine the goods carefully for any signs of poor quality or inconsistencies.

Unscrupulous currency exchangers may offer poor rates. Always use reputable establishments.

Location: Choose well-established currency exchange centers, preferably in tourist areas.
Check Rates: Compare rates with other reputable exchanges and online resources beforehand.
Verify Identification: Legitimate exchangers will ask for identification to prevent fraudulent activity.

Some accommodations may not deliver on promised services. Research and book with reputable providers.

Online Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to gauge the quality of service.
Official Booking Sites: Book through official accommodation booking sites for added protection.
Visit before Check-In: If possible, visit the accommodation prior to check-in to verify its condition.

Some street food vendors may use substandard ingredients or unsanitary conditions. Be cautious and choose well-known stalls.

Busy Stalls: Choose vendors with a steady flow of customers as they likely offer safe food.
Cleanliness: Look for clean surfaces and food preparation areas in the stall.
Cooking Methods: Avoid vendors who do not cook food immediately before serving.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer poor service or lead you to scam locations. Use only licensed and reputable guides.

Licensing Information: Legitimate tour guides will have a license number and relevant qualifications.
Online Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to gauge the quality of service.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Do not accept unsolicited offers for guided tours, especially on the street.

Some items at night markets may be overpriced or counterfeit. Be cautious and haggle for fair prices.

Haggling: It is common to negotiate prices at Baoshan Night Market.
Knowledgeable Vendors: Ask the vendor for information about the item before agreeing to purchase.
Avoid Alcoholic Beverages: Beware of vendors offering free alcoholic beverages, as they may lead to overpricing or other scams.

Some ATMs in Baoshan may skim your card. Use only well-lit and secure ATMs.

Location: Choose well-lit, secure ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers.
Cover Card Slot: Always cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent keylogging devices.
Check Your Statement: Regularly check your bank statement for any unauthorized transactions.

Some friendly locals may offer help or assistance but lead you to scam locations. Be cautious and verify their intentions.

Avoid Unsolicited Help: Be wary of unsolicited offers for help, especially if they involve money or directions.
Verify Identification: Legitimate locals will not mind showing identification when asked.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.

Some fortune tellers may use tricks to extract money. Be cautious and research beforehand.

Check Credentials: Legitimate fortune tellers will have credentials and a reputation in the community.
Fixed Prices: Ask for fixed prices before starting any readings or sessions.
No Personal Information: Never share personal information during fortune telling sessions.

Some individuals may pose as police officers to extort money. Remain calm and verify their identity.

Uniform and ID Check: Legitimate officers will show a badge, uniform, and proper identification.
Police Station Verification: If in doubt, ask the officer to escort you to the nearest police station for verification.
Do Not Provide Personal Information: Never provide personal information or money without proper verification.

Some individuals may give you a business card with fake contact details. Be cautious and verify information.

Follow-up Contact: Attempt to contact the individual using the provided phone number or email.
Online Presence: Check for an online presence or reviews to verify their legitimacy.
Meet in Public Places: If possible, meet in public places for any business transactions.

Some cyber cafes may install keyloggers or spyware. Use only reputable establishments.

Location: Choose cyber cafes located in busy, well-lit areas for added security.
Use Secure Websites: Always use secure websites (HTTPS) when accessing personal or financial information.
Use a VPN: Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for additional security.

Some bars may overcharge or serve diluted alcohol. Be cautious and verify prices before ordering.

Fixed Prices: Ask for fixed prices before starting your tab.
Check Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with other bars in the area to verify fairness.
Avoid Drinks Served Too Quickly: Beware of drinks served too quickly, as they may be watered down.

Some Airbnb listings may not meet expectations. Research and verify the host before booking.

Online Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers to gauge the quality of service.
Verification Badges: Look for verified hosts and listings for added protection.
Secure Payment Methods: Always use Airbnb's secure payment system to protect your finances.