Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Porto Alegre, Brazil

1. Fake Taxi Drivers

Avoid unofficial taxi services at the airport or late at night. Always use reputable companies with meters.

Unmetered Fares: Taxis without meters may charge inflated prices.
Unlicensed Drivers: Unlicensed drivers might not know the city well and could potentially take you to a scam location.
Safety Concerns: Riding with unofficial taxi drivers can put your safety at risk.

Check your Brazilian real notes for watermarks and security threads. Be cautious when receiving change in informal settings.

Watermark Check: Authentic notes have watermarks on the right side.
Security Thread: Feel for the thread along the left side of the note.
Informal Settings: Counterfeit money is more common in informal transactions.

Bargain and compare prices at multiple shops before purchasing souvenirs.

Bargaining: Sellers often start with a high price, so be prepared to negotiate.
Comparing Prices: Find out the fair market price of souvenirs before making a purchase.
Reputable Shops: Shop in reputable areas and stores to avoid overpriced or counterfeit items.

Be wary of buskers who request help with a 'sick relative' or other stories. Donate to reputable charities instead.

Storytelling: Scammers often use emotional appeals to solicit money.
Charity Verification: Research local charities before donating to ensure your contribution goes towards a good cause.
Busker's Performance: Genuine buskers perform for the joy of it, not just to solicit money.

Only eat street food from established vendors with clean cooking areas and busy locations.

Clean Cooking Area: Avoid vendors with unclean or unsanitary preparation spaces.
Busy Location: Vendors in busy areas have a higher turnover and fresher food.
Reputation: Established vendors usually have good reviews from regular customers.

Ask for prices before ordering and check the menu. Double-check the bill before paying.

Price Inquiry: It's customary to ask for prices before ordering in some restaurants.
Menu Check: Inspect the menu carefully to avoid overcharging.
Bill Verification: Ensure that the bill correctly reflects the items and prices ordered.

Research exchange rates beforehand and only use licensed money exchange shops.

Predefined Rates: Legitimate exchange shops have fixed exchange rates.
Licensed Shops: Check for a license and proper signage before exchanging money.
Security Precautions: Shops should have security measures in place to protect customers and their money.

Book tours through reputable agencies with positive reviews. Be cautious of unsolicited offers.

Reputation: Research tour companies before booking to ensure a good reputation.
Unsolicited Offers: Avoid guides who approach you unsolicited in the streets.
Positive Reviews: Look for positive reviews from past customers to ensure a quality experience.

Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Awareness: Be mindful of potential pickpockets, especially in crowded places.
Zip Up Bags: Use zip-up bags or purses to keep your belongings secure.
Safety Lockers: Store valuable items in safety lockers at tourist attractions when available.

Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers and be cautious of card-skimming devices.

Location: ATMs inside banks or shopping centers are less likely to have skimming devices.
Card Skimmers: Check for signs of tampering on the ATM before using it.
Cover Your PIN: Use your free hand or a shield to cover your PIN when entering it at an ATM.

Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Use a VPN when necessary.

Secure Connections: Stick to secure, encrypted connections for your online activities.
VPN Usage: Use a VPN to protect your data and privacy when using public Wi-Fi.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Do not conduct sensitive transactions, such as banking or shopping, on public Wi-Fi networks.

Avoid leaving your belongings unattended at the beach. Use designated storage areas if available.

Attendance: Always keep an eye on your belongings while at the beach.
Designated Storage: Use designated storage areas, such as lockers or lifeguard stations, if available.
Valuables: Leave valuable items at your accommodation when possible.

Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before driving away and return it in the same condition.

Pre-Drive Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the car for damage before accepting it.
Condition upon Return: Return the rental car in the same condition as when you received it.
Reputable Agencies: Rent from a reputable agency with positive customer reviews.

Book accommodations in advance and check for reviews to ensure quality.

Advance Booking: Book your accommodation well in advance to avoid any issues.
Positive Reviews: Check for positive reviews from past guests to ensure a good experience.
Reputable Agencies: Book through reputable agencies with a good track record.

Purchase tickets from authorized vendors or the event organizer's website.

Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets from approved ticket vendors or the official event organizer.
Online Purchase: Purchase tickets online to avoid potential counterfeit issues.
Scrutinize Tickets: Check the quality and authenticity of your ticket carefully.