Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Davao, Philippines

All Topics about Davao All Cities in Philippines

1. Taxi Overcharging

Some taxi drivers in Davao may try to overcharge tourists. Always agree on a fare before starting the journey.

Know Fixed Rates: Familiarize yourself with the official fixed rates for taxis.
Use Metered Taxis: Always choose metered taxis to avoid overcharging.
Negotiate Fare: If the taxi doesn't have a meter, always negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

Unlicensed tour guides may approach tourists offering their services. Stick to licensed guides from reputable companies.

Check License: Ask for the guide's license and verify its validity.
Use Reputable Companies: Book tours through reputable travel agencies or companies.
Avoid Solicitation: Ignore unsolicited offers from guides who approach you on the street.

Some exchange shops may give less money than agreed. Always check exchange rates beforehand and count your change.

Check Rates: Compare exchange rates at different shops to get the best deal.
Use Licensed Shops: Always use licensed currency exchange shops.
Count Your Change: Count your change carefully to ensure you've received the correct amount.

Some shops may overprice souvenirs for tourists. Always bargain and compare prices at different shops.

Bargain Prices: Always try to negotiate the price of souvenirs.
Compare Prices: Compare prices at different shops before making a purchase.
Avoid Street Vendors: Shop at established stores or markets to avoid overpriced souvenirs.

Some shops may sell counterfeit products. Always buy from reputable stores or markets.

Check Store Reputation: Research the store's reputation before making a purchase.
Check Labels: Look for signs of counterfeit products, such as missing logos or low-quality labels.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors are more likely to sell counterfeit goods.

Some ATMs in Davao may have skimmers installed. Always use ATMs in banks or well-lit areas.

Use Bank ATMs: Always use ATMs located inside banks or secure, well-lit areas.
Cover Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.
Monitor Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any unusual activity.

Some restaurants or shops may use credit card skimmers. Always pay attention when using your card.

Check Skimmer Devices: Look for signs of skimmer devices, such as unusual card readers.
Pay Attention: Always pay attention when using your credit card to prevent skimming.
Monitor Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any unusual activity.

Davao is generally safe, but pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Always keep your belongings secure.

Keep Belongings Secure: Always keep your belongings close and in a secure location.
Avoid Distractions: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, especially in crowded areas.
Don't Flash Valuables: Avoid flashing valuables like jewelry or large amounts of cash.

Some beggars may use tricks to get money. Always be cautious when giving money.

Avoid Giving Money: Avoid giving money to beggars, especially if they seem suspicious.
Report Suspicious Behavior: Report any suspicious behavior or scams to local authorities.
Help Locally: If you want to help, consider donating to a reputable charity instead.

Some people may pose as representatives of a charity to collect money. Always verify the authenticity of charities.

Check Authenticity: Always verify the authenticity of any charity before donating.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Don't give money to street solicitors, especially if they seem suspicious.
Donate Through Reputable Channels: Donate through reputable channels like official charity websites or banks.

Some people may try to befriend you for financial gain. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers.

Be Cautious of Strangers: Be cautious of overly friendly strangers, especially those who ask for money.
Don't Share Personal Information: Never share your personal information with strangers.
Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious activity or scams to local authorities.

Some cybercriminals may try to steal your personal information through phishing emails. Never click on suspicious links.

Never Click Suspicious Links: Always be wary of clicking links in unsolicited emails.
Use Secure Connections: Always use secure connections when accessing your bank or personal accounts online.
Report Phishing Emails: Report any suspicious emails to your email provider and local authorities.

Some people may pose as police officers to extort money. Always ask for identification if you're unsure.

Ask for Identification: Always ask for identification if someone claims to be a police officer.
Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious activity or scams to local authorities.
Stay Calm and Collect Information: Stay calm, collect as much information as possible, and then report the incident to authorities.

Some hotels may overbook rooms, leaving tourists without a place to stay. Always book through reputable channels.

Book Through Reputable Channels: Always book your hotel room through reputable travel agencies or websites.
Check Reviews: Check reviews of hotels before booking to avoid scams.
Have a Backup Plan: Always have a backup plan, such as another hotel or hostel, in case of issues with your booking.

Some landlords may rent out uninhabitable or misrepresented properties. Always inspect the accommodation before paying.

Inspect the Accommodation: Always inspect the accommodation before paying for it.
Check Reviews: Check reviews of accommodations to avoid scams.
Use Reputable Agencies: Always use reputable agencies or websites when renting accommodation.