Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Benxi, China

1. Taxi Scam Alert

Avoid overpriced or scammed taxi rides by using official taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing.

Price Fixing: Be aware of fixed prices before starting your journey.
Official Taxis: Recognize official taxis by their license plate colors and logos.
Ride-hailing Apps: Use reputable ride-hailing apps to ensure a fair price and secure payment.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit or low-quality goods from street vendors. Visit certified shops for genuine souvenirs.

Quality Control: Ensure items are made of high-quality materials and have proper labels.
Certified Shops: Look for authorized shops that sell authentic Benxi souvenirs.
Warranty or Guarantee: Check for warranties or guarantees on your purchases.

Avoid ticket scams by purchasing tickets at the official ticket booths of tourist attractions.

Official Booths: Recognize official ticket booths by their signage and staff uniforms.
Online Tickets: Purchase tickets online from the official websites of tourist attractions.
Ticket Quality: Check that your ticket is genuine and has all necessary details.

Avoid being overcharged during currency exchange by using authorized exchange services.

Authorized Exchange Services: Look for banks, hotels or official exchange kiosks.
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates between different services before deciding.
Security: Ensure that the service provides a secure environment for your transactions.

Avoid poor-quality accommodations or scams by booking through reputable online platforms.

Online Reputation: Check the accommodation's online reviews before making a reservation.
Payment Method: Choose accommodations that offer secure payment methods.
Location: Ensure the accommodation's location meets your requirements.

Avoid being overcharged or served low-quality food by researching popular and reliable restaurants.

Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews, ratings, and customer feedback before dining.
Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with those of other restaurants in the area.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on popular and affordable restaurants.

Avoid eating contaminated or low-quality street food by choosing busy and reputable food stalls.

Busy Stalls: Look for busy food stalls with a high turnover of customers.
Cleanliness: Check the cleanliness and hygiene standards of the food stall.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on popular and safe street food vendors.

Avoid transport scams by using official public transportation services or apps.

Official Services: Recognize official buses, trams, and trains by their logos and signage.
Ticketing Machines: Use ticketing machines or validated tickets to avoid fines.
Ride-hailing Apps: Use reputable ride-hailing apps to ensure a fair price and secure payment.

Avoid unlicensed guides by booking tours through reputable travel agencies.

Travel Agencies: Book your tour through a well-established and reputable travel agency.
License Check: Confirm that your guide is properly licensed by asking for their credentials.
Tour Itinerary: Ensure the tour itinerary is comprehensive and tailored to your preferences.

Avoid ticket scams or overpriced goods during local festivals by researching the event's official website.

Official Website: Find out more about the festival and its activities on the official website.
Ticket Outlets: Purchase tickets from authorized ticket booths or online platforms.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for tips on how to enjoy the festival without being scammed.

Avoid identity theft or data loss by using trusted internet cafes and securing your devices.

Secure Internet Cafes: Choose internet cafes with good security measures in place.
Use Secure Devices: Use your own device or a trusted VPN connection for sensitive activities.
Data Backup: Back up your important data before using public computers.

Avoid skimming and other ATM scams by using bank ATMs or in well-lit areas.

Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located at banks or inside shopping centers.
Well-Lit Areas: Choose ATMs in well-lit and public areas for added security.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.

Avoid being overcharged or scammed at bars by researching popular and reliable venues.

Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews, ratings, and customer feedback before visiting.
Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with those of other bars in the area.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on popular and affordable bars.

Avoid room-related scams by booking through reputable online platforms or directly with the hotel.

Online Reputation: Check the hotel's online reviews before making a reservation.
Payment Method: Choose accommodations that offer secure payment methods.
Direct Booking: Book your room directly with the hotel for better communication and transparency.

Avoid being scammed by street performers by researching their reputation before giving money.

Reputation Check: Look up reviews and feedback about the street performer online.
Free Performance: Enjoy a free performance before deciding to give money.
Genuine Talent: Evaluate the performer's talent and whether they deserve your support.