Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Bekasi Kota, Jawa Barat, Indonesia

All Topics about Bekasi Kota All Cities in Indonesia

1. Simcard Street Vendors

Beware of overpriced SIM cards or fake SIMs at street vendors. Visit authorized outlets for official prices.

Official Outlets: Authorized stores offer genuine SIM cards and lower prices
Price Comparison: Compare prices with reliable sources to avoid overpaying.
Store Location: Stay away from street vendors near tourist attractions, opt for outlets in shopping malls or official telecom stores

Avoid using unofficial taxis and negotiate prices before starting your journey.

Unofficial Taxis: Do not take rides from vehicles without proper metered taxi signs.
Negotiation: Always agree on the price before starting your journey.
Official Taxis: Use Blue Bird or Express taxis, which are Bekasi's official taxi companies.

Avoid using ATMs in isolated areas and cover the keypad while entering your PIN.

Isolated Areas: Do not use ATMs in secluded locations.
Cover Keypad: Protect your PIN from prying eyes when using an ATM.
Bank Branches: Use bank branches or well-lit, busy areas for safer transactions.

Exchange currency only at authorized money changers and beware of counterfeit bills.

Authorized Money Changers: Opt for licensed money changers that display official permits.
Counterfeit Bills: Check the authenticity of the bills beforehand to avoid receiving counterfeit currency.
Rates Comparison: Compare exchange rates with multiple outlets to get a fair deal.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods from street markets. Buy official merchandise only.

Street Markets: Do not buy goods from unlicensed street vendors.
Official Merchandise: Look for authorized retailers or official brand outlets to purchase genuine products.
Brand Logos: Inspect the quality of goods and logos, as counterfeit items often have poorer quality and incorrect logos.

Choose your tour guide carefully. Ensure they are licensed and reputable.

Licensed Guides: Verify that the guide has a proper license to operate tours in Bekasi Kota.
Reputable Companies: Research the tour company and read reviews before booking a tour.
Fixed Price Contracts: Agree on a fixed price before beginning the tour to avoid unexpected costs.

Avoid eating from street food vendors that appear unsanitary or unhygienic.

Sanitation: Check for proper storage and handling of food, as well as cleanliness.
Busy Areas: Opt for food stalls located in busy, well-trafficked areas with good hygiene practices.
Cooking Methods: Stay away from vendors using suspicious or unhygienic cooking methods.

Buy souvenirs only from authorized shops or reputable vendors.

Authorized Shops: Look for licensed stores that display official permits.
Reputable Vendors: Research the vendor and read reviews before making a purchase.
Brand Logos: Inspect the quality of souvenirs and logos, as counterfeit items often have poorer quality and incorrect logos.

Book accommodations through reliable sources and read reviews to ensure a safe stay.

Reliable Sources: Use trusted booking websites or travel agents for accommodation reservations.
Reviews: Read reviews from other guests to get an idea of the quality and safety of the lodging.
Location: Choose accommodations located in safe, well-trafficked areas for added security.

Buy tickets only from authorized vendors and check the validity of tickets before use.

Authorized Vendors: Purchase tickets from licensed ticket outlets or official websites.
Valid Tickets: Ensure the ticket has a proper barcode and is not easily torn or damaged.
Ticket Price Comparison: Compare prices with multiple outlets to avoid overpaying for tickets.

Avoid using unsecured cybercafes and beware of viruses or keyloggers.

Secure Cybercafes: Choose cybercafes with up-to-date antivirus software installed.
Password Safety: Do not use the same password for multiple accounts and avoid logging in to sensitive websites at unsecured cybercafes.
Data Backup: Always backup your data to protect against potential data loss or theft.

Avoid massage parlors with suspicious signs or hidden locations. Research the place before visiting.

Suspicious Signs: Stay away from massage parlors with hidden entrances, secretive advertising, or unusual operating hours.
Reputable Parlors: Research the place and read reviews before making an appointment to ensure a safe experience.
Professional Staff: Ensure that the massage parlor employs professional staff with proper certifications and licenses.

Avoid using unsecured internet cafes and beware of viruses or keyloggers.

Secure Internet Cafés: Choose internet cafes with up-to-date antivirus software installed.
Password Safety: Do not use the same password for multiple accounts and avoid logging in to sensitive websites at unsecured internet cafes.
Data Backup: Always backup your data to protect against potential data loss or theft.

Negotiate prices beforehand and avoid overpaying for goods and services.

Price Negotiation: Always agree on a price before starting any transaction.
Market Prices: Research the average prices for goods and services in Bekasi Kota to avoid being overcharged.
Reputable Shops: Purchase goods from authorized shops or reputable vendors instead of street vendors.

Negotiate prices beforehand and avoid overpaying for transportation services.

Price Negotiation: Always agree on a price before starting your journey.
Official Taxis: Use Blue Bird or Express taxis, which are Bekasi's official taxi companies.
Fare Comparison: Compare prices with reliable sources to avoid overpaying for transportation services.