Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Calgary, Canada

1. Tourist Information Centre Scam

Scammers may pose as tourist information centre staff to steal personal data or offer fake tours. Be cautious when sharing sensitive info.

Awareness: Recognize that genuine tourist centres do not ask for personal data unnecessarily.
Verification: Verify the authenticity of information centres by checking official city websites or asking local police stations.
Security: Avoid using unsecured Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions, as they can be vulnerable to data theft.

Scammers may impersonate police officers to extort money or personal information. Always ask for proper identification.

Identification: Genuine Calgary Police Service members will always carry and show their badge upon request.
Location: Police officers do not typically ask for money or personal information in public places, but instead invite individuals to the station for further discussions.
Reporting: If you suspect someone is an imposter, contact local police immediately and describe the individual and their actions.

Scammers may install skimming devices on ATMs to steal bank card information. Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit areas.

Bank Location: ATMs located inside banks are generally safer due to increased security measures.
Lighting: Avoid using ATMs in poorly lit areas, as they can be more vulnerable to skimming devices.
Covering: If an ATM looks tampered with or has a suspicious device over the card reader, do not use it and report the issue immediately.

Scammers may operate unlicensed taxis to overcharge customers or take them to unwanted destinations. Always use licensed taxi services.

Licensing: Legitimate Calgary cabs will always display their license number and company name on the vehicle.
Payment: Pay by credit card or through a taxi company's app to have a record of your trip.
Complaints: If you experience any issues with a taxi, report it to the city's taxi commission for further action.

Scammers may place counterfeit coins or tampered receipts in parking meters to avoid payment. Always check for proper functioning of the meter.

Meter Functionality: Ensure the parking meter accepts payment correctly and dispenses a valid receipt.
Time Limits: Observe posted time limits to avoid overstaying and incurring fines or having your vehicle towed.
Parking Signs: Make sure you park within the designated area as indicated by parking signs, or use municipal parking lots with payment kiosks.

Some street performers may demand excessive tips or try to distract you while others pickpocket. Enjoy performances but remain vigilant.

Ask Locals: Ask nearby locals about the authenticity of street performers before making a contribution.
Tip Moderately: Avoid giving large tips, as this may encourage aggressive solicitation or excessive demands.
Focus on Your Belongings: Keep your belongings close at hand and avoid distractions while interacting with street performers.

Scammers may rent a car under false names or tamper with vehicles to avoid returning them in good condition. Use reputable rental agencies.

Rental Agency: Choose a well-known, reputable car rental agency for peace of mind and protection.
Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the rented vehicle before leaving the lot to document any pre-existing damage.
Return Condition: Upon returning the car, carefully check the fuel level and return it with a full tank to avoid excessive charges.

Scammers may offer fake accommodations or steal personal information during the booking process. Use verified Airbnb hosts.

Verification: Verify the host and listing by checking their reviews, response rate, and Superhost status.
Payment Method: Use Airbnb's payment system to ensure your reservation is secure and protected.
Communication: Maintain open communication with the host, discussing details and confirming the booking before arrival.

Scammers may offer low-quality or overpriced food from unlicensed trucks. Only purchase from licensed food trucks.

Licensing: Legitimate food trucks will have a health permit number displayed on their vehicle.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other nearby food trucks to ensure fair pricing.
Hygiene: Look for clean, well-maintained food trucks and check that the food is stored properly.

Scammers may create fake Wi-Fi networks to steal personal information. Use trusted Wi-Fi sources like hotels or cafes.

Security: Avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, as they can be vulnerable to data theft.
Password Protection: Create strong, unique passwords for your devices and accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
VPN Usage: Use a VPN service to encrypt your internet connection and protect your data when using public Wi-Fi networks.

Scammers may sell fake or overpriced tickets to popular events. Buy tickets from authorized vendors only.

Authorized Vendors: Purchase tickets from official event websites, the venue box office, or reputable ticket agencies.
Price Comparison: Compare ticket prices with other sources to ensure fair pricing and avoid overpaying.
Verification: Check the validity of tickets by scanning them at authorized venues or asking staff for confirmation.

Scammers may pose as charity collectors to steal money or personal information. Donate to reputable charities only.

Research: Research charities before donating to ensure they are legitimate and reputable.
Donation Method: Make donations through the charity's official website or by check, rather than in person or with cash.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for your donation to have proof of your contribution and to verify the charity's legitimacy.

Scammers may tamper with bus fare boxes to collect money multiple times. Always validate your ticket before leaving the bus.

Ticket Validation: Validate your ticket by ensuring it has been properly stamped or printed.
Fare Box Functionality: Ensure the fare box accepts and dispenses coins correctly.
Complaints: Report any issues with bus fare boxes or invalidated tickets to the transit authority for further action.

Scammers may offer fraudulent timeshares or high-pressure sales tactics to steal money. Research and be cautious before making a purchase.

Research: Research the timeshare company, its reputation, and any customer reviews before committing.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Avoid high-pressure sales tactics and take time to consider your decision before making a purchase.
Contract Review: Thoroughly review the contract and seek legal advice if necessary to ensure there are no hidden fees or obligations.

Scammers may take payment for a hotel room that does not exist. Use reputable booking websites or contact the hotel directly.

Booking Website: Use well-known, reputable booking websites to ensure your reservation is secure and protected.
Direct Booking: Contact the hotel directly to verify availability and make a reservation through their official website or by phone.
Payment Method: Use secure payment methods like credit cards when making hotel bookings.