Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kharkiv, Ukraine

1. Taxis in Kharkiv

Avoid overpriced or fraudulent taxi services by using regulated taxi companies or apps like TaxiMeter.

Regulation: Ensure the taxi is marked with the official 'АКТ' sign and has a meter.
Apps: Use apps like TaxiMeter for transparent pricing and easy payment.
Avoidance of Fraud: Be wary of drivers trying to take longer routes or claim higher prices.

Exchange money at reputable exchange offices and avoid those near tourist spots for better rates.

Location: Choose exchange offices away from major attractions for fairer rates.
Reviews: Check reviews online or ask locals for recommendations.
Commission Fees: Compare commission fees between exchange offices before exchanging money.

Purchase goods only from established street vendors or stores and negotiate prices before paying.

Established Vendors: Look for vendors with a fixed location, displaying their products openly.
Negotiation: Be prepared to negotiate prices and walk away if the price is too high.
Avoid Counterfeit Goods: Be wary of counterfeit or low-quality goods, especially when buying branded items.

Select reputable bars and restaurants with visible menus, regulated prices, and no hidden fees.

Visibility of Menu: Ensure the menu is clearly displayed and prices are listed.
Regulated Prices: Check that the prices on the menu match the standard prices for the city.
No Hidden Fees: Ask about service charges, taxes, or other hidden fees before ordering.

Use official public transport services and validate tickets to avoid fines.

Official Services: Choose buses, trams, or trolleybuses with 'ГПС' on the front.
Validating Tickets: Validate your ticket upon entering the public transport vehicle.
Avoiding Fines: Beware of undercover officers who may issue fines for invalid or missing tickets.

Be cautious at markets when buying goods and be aware of common scams such as short-changing.

Caution: Stay alert, especially during busy times or in crowded areas.
Short-Changing: Count your change carefully and match it to the amount displayed on the price tag.
Haggling: Negotiate prices confidently and walk away if you feel pressured or uncomfortable.

Rent cars only from reputable companies with clear contracts and conditions.

Reputable Companies: Choose well-known rental companies with good reviews.
Clear Contracts: Read and understand the contract before signing it.
Condition Check: Check the car's condition before driving away and report any damage.

Use secure public Wi-Fi spots or a VPN to protect your personal data.

Secure Spots: Choose Wi-Fi spots in cafes, libraries, or hotels with good reputations.
VPN: Use a VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your data.
Password Protection: Never share passwords or sensitive information over public Wi-Fi.

Use ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas and be cautious of card skimmers.

Location: Choose ATMs inside banks, shopping centers, or other secure locations.
Card Skimmers: Check the machine for any unusual parts or loose components.
PIN Protection: Cover your PIN while entering it and be aware of anyone nearby.

Give to legitimate charities or organizations instead of directly giving money to beggars.

Legitimate Charities: Research local charities and donate through their official channels.
Avoid Direct Payments: Do not give money directly to beggars, especially children.
Safety: Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious when giving or donating money.

Visit reputable tourist attractions and research ticket prices beforehand to avoid overpaying.

Reputation: Choose well-known tourist attractions with good reviews.
Prepaid Tickets: Purchase tickets online or in advance to avoid overpaying at the gate.
Official Prices: Compare ticket prices with those listed on official websites.

Avoid transportation scams by using registered and numbered minivans or marshrutkas.

Registration: Check that the minivan or marshrutka has a registration plate.
Numbered Vehicles: Ensure the vehicle is numbered and operated by a registered company.
Avoid Unlicensed Drivers: Be wary of unlicensed drivers who may demand higher prices or take longer routes.

Use licensed guides or reputable tour companies to avoid fraudulent guides.

Licensed Guides: Look for a guide with an official ID and badge.
Reputable Companies: Choose tour companies with good reviews and transparent pricing.
Avoiding Overpricing: Negotiate prices beforehand and avoid guides who demand excessive fees.

Bargain for reasonable prices at shops in the old town while staying aware of scams.

Bargaining: Negotiate prices confidently and be prepared to walk away if necessary.
Scam Awareness: Stay alert for common scams such as overpricing or short-changing.
Avoiding Counterfeit Goods: Be cautious of counterfeit or low-quality goods, especially when buying branded items.

Avoid giving your business card to anyone who does not need it or ask for unnecessary information.

Need: Only give your business card when necessary, such as during a professional meeting.
Personal Information: Avoid giving out personal or sensitive information on your business card.
Scam Prevention: Be wary of anyone asking for unnecessary personal or business details.