Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Cincinnati, United States
1. Overpriced Taxi Scam
Watch for overpriced taxi rides at the airport or downtown. Always use official taxis and agree on the price before starting the journey.
- Price Check: Check prices with a local source before your trip
- Official Taxis: Use only official taxis from designated stands
- Price Agreement: Always agree on the price before starting the journey
2. Counterfeit Goods Market
Beware of vendors selling counterfeit goods in some parts of downtown Cincinnati. Stick to reputable stores for branded items.
- Reputable Stores: Shop only at reputable, well-known stores
- Location Awareness: Avoid questionable areas for shopping
- Brand Authenticity: Look for signs of authenticity on branded items
3. Busking Scam
Some street performers may overly insistent or aggressive in seeking donations. Be discerning and support only genuine artists.
- Discernment: Use your judgment about the performance's quality and authenticity
- Genuine Artists: Look for performances that are truly engaging and skillful
- Moderation: Don't feel obligated to donate excessively
4. Ticket Scam
Beware of ticket scalpers or fake ticket sellers around popular venues. Purchase tickets only from authorized sources.
- Authorized Sources: Purchase tickets only from official box offices or websites
- Avoid Scalpers: Don't deal with ticket scalpers or unauthorized vendors
- Ticket Authenticity: Check the authenticity of tickets before using them
5. Pickpocketing in Crowds
Be aware of pickpockets operating in crowded areas such as Fountain Square or the Reds games. Keep your belongings secure.
- Secure Belongings: Keep personal items hidden and secure
- Crowd Awareness: Be extra vigilant in crowded areas
- Security Measures: Consider using a pickpocket-resistant bag or wallet
6. Fake Parking Meters
Be cautious of fake parking meters in downtown Cincinnati. Use only official parking machines or pay for parking at a parking lot.
- Official Parking Machines: Use only officially marked parking machines
- Parking Lot Payment: Pay for parking at a parking lot or garage when necessary
- Time Limit Awareness: Understand and adhere to time limits on parking meters
7. Fraudulent Charity Collectors
Be wary of charity collectors in Cincinnati who may not be genuine. Research charities before donating to ensure your contribution goes to a legitimate cause.
- Charity Research: Research charities before making a donation
- Official Collectors: Only give to collectors wearing official identification
- Donation Method: Use secure and reputable methods for making donations
8. ATM Skimming
Be careful when using ATMs in Cincinnati, as some may have skimmers installed. Use well-lit and official ATMs, and cover your PIN.
- Official ATMs: Use only official ATMs located at banks or within secure areas
- Well-lit Area: Choose well-lit and busy locations for using an ATM
- PIN Coverage: Cover your PIN when entering it at the ATM
9. Shoreline Scams at the Ohio River
Be cautious of individuals offering fishing or sightseeing trips on boats near the Ohio River. Research and book trips through reputable providers.
- Reputable Providers: Book with reputable boat tour operators
- Safety Measures: Check the safety record and equipment of the provider
- Fair Pricing: Compare prices with other reputable providers before booking
10. Overpriced Lodging Scam
Avoid overpriced hotels or vacation rentals by researching and booking accommodations in advance through reputable sources.
- Reputable Booking Sources: Book accommodations only through trusted online travel agencies
- Price Comparison: Compare prices for the same hotel or vacation rental across different sources
- Location Awareness: Choose accommodations in safe and convenient locations
11. Dine & Dash Scam
Be cautious when dining at restaurants with a self-service pay option. Always settle the bill before leaving.
- Self-Service Awareness: Be aware of restaurants that offer self-service pay options
- Settling the Bill: Always settle the bill before leaving a restaurant
- Reputable Restaurants: Choose reputable restaurants with good customer reviews
12. Unlicensed Massage Parlors
Avoid unlicensed massage parlors in Cincinnati that may engage in illegal activities. Only visit reputable spas and massage centers.
- Reputable Spas: Visit only licensed and reputable spas or massage centers
- License Check: Check for the valid license of the massage parlor before visiting
- Customer Reviews: Read customer reviews and check the establishment's reputation
13. Pedicab Overcharging
Be aware of pedicabs that may overcharge or take longer routes in downtown Cincinnati. Negotiate the price before starting the ride.
- Price Negotiation: Negotiate a fair price for your pedicab ride before getting in
- Route Awareness: Be aware of routes and avoid unnecessary detours
- Time Sensitivity: Avoid pedicabs during peak travel times or congested areas
14. Street Performance Scam
Some street performers may ask for excessive donations. Be discerning and support only genuine artists.
- Discernment: Use your judgment about the performance's quality and authenticity
- Genuine Artists: Look for performances that are truly engaging and skillful
- Moderation: Don't feel obligated to donate excessively
15. Fraudulent Tour Guides
Be wary of unauthorized tour guides in Cincinnati. Research and book tours through reputable providers.
- Reputable Providers: Book tours only through trusted travel agencies or online booking platforms
- Official Guides: Ensure the tour guide is officially certified by Cincinnati's Tourism Board
- Tour Quality: Read reviews and check the reputation of the tour provider