Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Rui’an, China

1. Taxi Overcharging Scam

Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge tourists. Always agree on the fare before starting the journey.

Know the Fare: Ask for the price before getting into the taxi.
Use Metered Taxis: Prefer using metered taxis whenever possible.
Negotiate Price: Negotiate the price for long journeys before starting the trip.

Some locals may pose as tour guides to overcharge tourists. Always book tours through reputable agencies.

Check Credentials: Ask for ID or certification before hiring a guide.
Book Tours Ahead: Book tours with reputable agencies ahead of time to avoid street solicitation.
Research Tour Companies: Research tour companies before booking to ensure they have good reviews and are reliable.

Sellers may offer counterfeit goods at popular tourist spots. Always check for quality before purchasing.

Check Quality: Inspect the product carefully for any flaws or signs of poor craftsmanship.
Buy from Reputable Shops: Purchase goods only from shops with good reviews and a reputation for selling genuine items.
Negotiate Price: Be wary of extremely low prices as they may indicate counterfeit goods.

Some money changers may give tourists less than the agreed rate. Always use reputable exchange services.

Check Rates: Compare exchange rates among different money changers before making a decision.
Avoid Street Exchanges: Avoid exchanging money on the street to minimize the risk of scams.
Use Reputable Services: Use banks or reputable exchange centers for currency exchange.

Criminals may install skimming devices on ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs inside banks or reputable establishments.

Use Secure ATMs: Always choose ATMs that are located inside banks or reputable establishments.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.
Use Credit Cards with Chip and Pin: Use credit cards with chip and pin to minimize the risk of skimming.

Some accommodation providers may offer subpar rooms at high prices. Always check reviews and book through reputable platforms.

Check Reviews: Always read reviews before booking an accommodation.
Use Reputable Platforms: Book accommodations through reputable platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb.
Inspect Room Before Paying: Always inspect the room before paying to ensure it meets your expectations.

Some restaurants may serve food that has been contaminated or of poor quality. Always choose well-reviewed and busy restaurants.

Check Reviews: Always read reviews before dining at a restaurant.
Choose Busy Restaurants: Opt for busy restaurants as they are more likely to have fresh food.
Stick to Cooked Foods: Avoid street foods that may not be cooked properly or contaminated.

Some restaurants overprice their food for tourists. Always ask locals for recommendations.

Ask Locals for Recommendations: Always ask locals for dining recommendations.
Stay Away from Tourist Areas: Avoid restaurants located in tourist areas as they may overprice their food.
Check Prices Before Ordering: Always check prices before ordering to avoid unexpected bills.

Pickpockets may target tourists in crowded areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Keep Belongings Secure: Always keep your belongings close and avoid leaving them unattended.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Use a Hidden Money Belt: Consider using a hidden money belt to keep your valuables safe.

Some beggars may trick tourists into giving them money. Be cautious and only give to legitimate charities.

Be Cautious with Money: Always be cautious when handling money in public.
Avoid Giving Cash to Beggars: Avoid giving cash directly to beggars, opt for donating to a legitimate charity instead.
Research Local Charities: Research local charities before making a donation to ensure they are legitimate.

Some public transport drivers may overcharge tourists. Always validate tickets and be aware of the fare.

Validate Tickets: Always validate your ticket before boarding any form of public transportation.
Know the Fare: Ask for the fare before getting on a bus or train to avoid being overcharged.
Buy Multiple Tickets at Once: Consider buying multiple tickets at once to save money and avoid overpaying.

Some buskers may aggressively demand money or use distractions to steal from tourists. Be cautious and only give to legitimate performers.

Be Cautious with Money: Always be cautious when handling money in public.
Check for a Collection Box: Look for a collection box or designated area for donations before giving money to performers.
Avoid Distractions: Be aware of distractions as some scammers may use them to steal from tourists.

Scalpers may sell tickets for popular attractions at inflated prices. Always buy tickets directly from the venue or official outlets.

Buy Tickets Directly from Venue: Always buy tickets directly from the venue or official outlets.
Avoid Buying from Street Vendors: Avoid buying tickets from street vendors as they may be scalped or counterfeit.
Check Online for Discounts: Check online for discounted tickets or package deals to save money.

Some individuals may find a tourist's lost item and demand payment for its return. Always contact local authorities if you lose an item.

Contact Local Authorities: Always contact local authorities if you lose an item.
Never Pay for a Found Item: Never pay someone for the return of your lost item.
Secure Your Belongings: Always secure your belongings to prevent them from being lost or stolen.

Some internet cafés may install keyloggers on computers to steal personal information. Always use secure networks or your own device.

Use Secure Networks: Always use secure networks when accessing sensitive information.
Bring Your Own Device: Consider bringing your own device to avoid using public computers.
Install a VPN: Install a VPN on your device for added security when accessing the internet in public places.