Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Chizhou, China
1. Tourist Trap Restaurants
Restaurants near popular attractions often overprice meals. Be aware of this to avoid overspending.
- Location: Restaurants close to tourist sites are more likely to overcharge.
- Menu Pricing: Look for restaurants with reasonable prices for the local area.
- Recommendations: Ask locals or use trusted online resources for restaurant recommendations.
2. Fake Taxis
Unlicensed taxis may charge higher prices. Use only official taxi services in Chizhou.
- Official Logos: Look for official logos on the vehicle and driver's uniform.
- Meter Usage: Insist that the taxi uses the meter to calculate the fare.
- Safety: Unlicensed taxis may not adhere to safety regulations.
3. Counterfeit Goods Market
Markets selling branded goods at suspiciously low prices may be selling counterfeits. Buy only from reputable stores.
- Price: If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
- Store Reputation: Avoid small, unknown stores and opt for larger, established ones.
- Quality: Counterfeit goods may not have the same quality as genuine items.
4. ATM Skimming
Criminals use skimmers on ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs in banks or well-lit, busy areas.
- ATM Location: Avoid using ATMs in secluded or poorly lit areas.
- Card Insertion: Check the card slot for any signs of tampering before inserting your card.
- Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.
5. Scam Tours
Tour operators may offer low prices but skimp on services. Research tour companies thoroughly.
- Price: If a tour price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Reviews: Check online reviews for the tour company before booking.
- Inclusions: Ensure that all inclusions are listed and understand what is not included.
6. Street Performers Scams
Performers may insist on payment for performances. Ignore unsolicited performances or negotiate the price.
- Ask Locals: Ask locals about common scams in the area.
- Negotiation: Negotiate the price before the performance begins.
- Payment Method: Only use local currency and avoid using large bills.
7. Currency Exchange Scams
Unofficial currency exchangers may offer poor exchange rates. Use official exchange offices or banks.
- Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates between different establishments.
- Location: Avoid exchanging currency in tourist areas or on the street.
- Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on trusted exchange offices.
8. Gold and Jade Scams
Scammers may sell fake gold or jade at high prices. Only buy from reputable stores with guarantees.
- Price: Gold and jade are valuable, so their prices should be reasonable.
- Guarantee: Ensure that the store offers a guarantee or refund policy.
- Store Reputation: Avoid small, unknown stores and opt for larger, established ones.
9. Bicycle Rental Scams
Renting a bicycle can lead to hidden charges or damaged bikes. Inspect the bike before renting.
- Condition of Bike: Inspect the bike thoroughly before riding.
- Rental Agreement: Read and understand the rental agreement carefully.
- Payment Method: Use a reputable payment method like a credit card.
10. Public Wi-Fi Scams
Public Wi-Fi may be used to steal personal information. Only use secure, encrypted networks.
- Network Name: Avoid using unsecured or suspicious network names.
- Security Protocol: Use a VPN to secure your connection and protect your data.
- Avoid Personal Information: Avoid logging into personal accounts or entering sensitive information.
11. Hotel Scams
Some hotels may overcharge for services or have hidden fees. Research hotels thoroughly before booking.
- Price: Compare prices between different hotels.
- Reviews: Check online reviews for the hotel before booking.
- Inclusions: Ensure that all inclusions are listed and understand what is not included.
12. Lost Item Scams
Finders of lost items may demand money for return. Keep valuables safe and secure.
- Valuable Items: Keep valuable items in a safe or hotel safe.
- Report Loss Immediately: Report lost items to the police and your embassy immediately.
- Avoid Paying for Return: Do not pay for the return of your lost item.
13. Ticketing Scams
Counterfeit or overpriced tickets may be sold for attractions. Only buy tickets from official sources.
- Price: Compare prices between different ticket vendors.
- Source: Only buy tickets from official sources or at the attraction's box office.
- Authenticity: Check the ticket for authenticity before using it.
14. Street Food Scams
Some street food vendors may use poor ingredients or overcharge. Choose reputable vendors.
- Ingredients: Look for fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Reputation: Avoid small, unknown vendors and opt for larger, established ones.
- Price: Compare prices with other street food vendors.
15. Language Barrier Scams
Scammers may take advantage of the language barrier. Learn basic phrases or travel with a translator.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Learn basic phrases to communicate effectively.
- Travel With a Translator: Consider traveling with someone who speaks the local language.
- Ask Locals for Help: Ask locals for help when communicating with vendors or service providers.