Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Jilin, Jilin, China
1. Counterfeit Souvenirs Scam
Beware of fake souvenirs sold at overpriced stalls around Changbai Mountain. Check the quality and authenticity before purchase.
- Know the Local Prices: Research typical prices for souvenirs in Jilin before purchasing.
- Shop at Trusted Locations: Buy souvenirs from reputable shops or markets.
- Check Quality and Authenticity: Inspect your purchase for quality and authenticity before leaving the store.
2. Tourist Trap Restaurants Scam
Some restaurants in Jilong Street inflate prices for food, especially towards tourists. Ensure to verify menu prices and check reviews before dining.
- Avoid Peak Hours and Popular Locations: Dine during off-peak hours or in less crowded areas.
- Check Menu Prices: Ensure prices listed on the menu match what you are charged.
- Review Online Ratings and Reviews: Look up restaurants online to check for customer feedback before dining.
3. Unauthorized Taxi Services Scam
Be cautious when taking taxis that are not licensed by the Jilin Transportation Commission. Always use authorized taxi services or ride-hailing apps.
- Check for Proper Licenses and Identification: Ensure your taxi driver has proper identification, such as a license plate and ID card.
- Use Ride-Hailing Apps: Use trusted ride-hailing apps like Didi or Taxi Hail for safer transportation.
- Avoid Private Cars: Do not accept rides from private cars that are not licensed taxis.
4. Ticket Scalping Scam
Be wary of ticket scalpers outside concert venues and event sites in Jilin. Purchase tickets from authorized outlets only.
- Buy Tickets in Advance: Purchase tickets through official channels before the event date.
- Check Ticket Prices: Compare ticket prices with those listed on the event's website or official outlets.
- Avoid Buying from Unauthorized Vendors: Do not buy tickets from street vendors or unofficial sources.
5. Fake Guides Scam
Some 'tour guides' in Jilin offer overpriced tours and may lead you to fraudulent attractions. Use authorized tour companies or self-guide if possible.
- Check Credentials: Ensure your guide has proper identification, such as a tour guide license.
- Research Tour Companies: Choose a reputable and authorized tour company.
- Self-Guide When Possible: Use maps, guides, or apps to explore on your own when possible.
6. ATM Skimming Scam
Fraudsters may install skimming devices on ATMs in Jilin to steal your card information. Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable establishments.
- Avoid Using ATMs in Isolated Locations: Use ATMs that are well-lit and located near shops, restaurants, or banks.
- Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.
- Monitor Your Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.
7. Wi-Fi Snooping Scam
Cybercriminals may use public Wi-Fi in Jilin to access your personal data. Avoid using public networks for sensitive activities like banking or email.
- Use a VPN: Use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi.
- Avoid Accessing Sensitive Information: Do not access sensitive information on public networks.
- Check Network Security: Verify the network's security by checking for HTTPS in URLs when browsing.
8. Credit Card Theft Scam
Thieves may pickpocket credit cards or skim card information at stores and restaurants in Jilin. Keep a close eye on your belongings.
- Use RFID-Blocking Wallets: Use an RFID-blocking wallet to protect your credit cards from skimming.
- Keep Your Belongings Secure: Avoid leaving bags unattended and keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Monitor Your Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.
9. Scammer Approaches Pretending to be Police Officer Scam
Fraudsters may pose as police officers in Jilin to extort money from tourists. Familiarize yourself with the local police force to avoid falling victim.
- Verify Identity of Police Officers: Ask for identification before cooperating with any police officer.
- Research Local Police Force: Familiarize yourself with the appearance, uniforms, and procedures of the local police force.
- Report Suspicious Incidents: If you encounter suspicious individuals claiming to be police officers, report them to a reputable source.
10. Overpriced Car Rental Scam
Some car rental companies in Jilin may charge excessive prices or hide fees. Research and compare rates before renting a vehicle.
- Compare Prices from Multiple Companies: Research and compare prices from several car rental companies.
- Check for Hidden Fees: Review the contract carefully to ensure no hidden fees are included.
- Choose a Reputable Company: Select a well-known and authorized car rental company.
11. Accommodation Overbooking Scam
Some hotels in Jilin may overbook rooms and require you to pay for an alternative, more expensive accommodation. Book your stay through reputable channels.
- Book Through Trusted Channels: Make reservations through well-known travel websites or the hotel's official website.
- Read Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews and ratings of hotels before making a booking.
- Check Cancellation Policies: Understand the cancellation policy in case of overbooking.
12. Transportation Ticket Overpricing Scam
Some transportation services in Jilin may charge tourists excessively. Purchase tickets through authorized channels or use ride-hailing apps.
- Purchase Tickets Through Authorized Channels: Buy tickets at authorized ticket booths or from reputable sources.
- Avoid Private Cars: Do not accept rides from private cars that are not licensed taxis.
- Use Ride-Hailing Apps: Use trusted ride-hailing apps like Didi or Taxi Hail for safer transportation.
13. Fraudulent Charity Collectors Scam
Some individuals in Jilin may pose as charity collectors to solicit donations. Only support recognized and reputable charities.
- Research Charities Before Donating: Verify the legitimacy of a charity before making a donation.
- Avoid Donating on the Street: Do not give money to collectors on the street; instead, donate through recognized channels.
- Support Reputable Charities: Choose well-known and reputable charities to support.
14. Overpriced Local Services Scam
Some service providers in Jilin may charge tourists excessively for services like repairs or maintenance. Research and compare prices before hiring anyone.
- Research Prices Before Hiring: Gather quotes from multiple service providers to compare prices.
- Check Reviews and Ratings: Review the service provider's reputation by checking reviews and ratings online.
- Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices with service providers to ensure a fair cost.
15. Photography Scam
Some street photographers in Jilin may request excessive fees for photos taken without permission. Avoid giving money unless you are satisfied with the results.
- Ask for Permission Before Photographing: Always ask for permission before taking someone's photograph.
- Bargain Over Prices: Negotiate the price of the photographs to avoid overpaying.
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Photographers: Be cautious when approached by unknown photographers, as they may demand excessive fees.