Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Tokyo, Japan
1. Fake Ticket Sales
There are scams involving fake tickets for events, tourist spots, or transportation. These are sold around busy areas or online.
- Location: Purchase tickets only from official outlets or websites.
- Verification: Check the authenticity of tickets and sellers.
- Payment Method: Use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection.
- Timing: Buy tickets early to avoid last-minute buying from scammers.
- Price: Be wary of tickets that are significantly underpriced.
2. Bar Scam
In certain districts, bars may overcharge tourists or add unexpected fees to the bill.
- Area Selection: Research bars and their reviews online.
- Pricing: Ask for a menu with prices before ordering.
- Payment Disclosure: Only pay for what you ordered, and discuss any extra fees immediately.
- Company: Visit bars with trusted companions.
- Time: Avoid late hours where disputes are harder to resolve.
3. ATM Skimming
Devices on ATMs can steal your card information.
- ATM Type: Use ATMs inside banks or reputable establishments.
- Card Insertion: Keep an eye on the card slot for suspicious attachments.
- Transaction: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
- Frequency: Check your bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions.
- Evidence: Report any suspicious ATMs to the bank immediately.
4. Fake Police Scams
Imposters pose as police, demanding fines for fake offenses.
- Identification: Ask for official police identification.
- Payment: Never pay fines directly on the spot.
- Communication: Call the local police station to verify legitimacy.
- Language: Be cautious if the "officer" speaks poor Japanese or English.
- Assistance: Seek help from locals or nearby shop owners.
5. Rental Listing Scams
Fake rental listings can trap newcomers or tourists.
- Platform: Use established rental platforms with verified listings.
- Inspection: Visit the property in person before paying any deposit.
- Agreement: Have a written contract for the rental.
- Contact: Deal with property managers who have a local office.
- Fees: Be wary of upfront fees not typical in the area.
6. Restaurant Scams
Bogus charges may appear on your restaurant bill.
- Menu Clarity: Confirm prices before ordering.
- Receipt Check: Review bills closely for accuracy.
- Group Payments: Ensure contributions add up if dining with others.
- Service Charge: Ask beforehand about any service fees.
- Dispute: Politely question unexpected charges immediately.
7. Pickpocketing
Crowded Tokyo attractions are hotspots for pickpockets.
- Awareness: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
- Bag Position: Keep belongings securely close to you.
- Distraction: Avoid distractions by strangers, especially in crowds.
- Clothing: Use clothes with interior pockets for valuables.
- Companion: Travel with someone to watch out for each other.
8. Unofficial Tour Guides
Fake guides might take money without providing real services.
- Personnel: Use guides from registered tour companies.
- Reviews: Check online reviews or recommendations.
- Cost: Confirm the cost and itinerary before starting a tour.
- Credential: Ask to see licenses or badges for tour guides.
- Payment: Pay through secure channels rather than cash on hand.
9. Charity Scams
Fake charities may ask for donations.
- Legitimacy: Research charities before donating.
- Approach: Be cautious if approached on the street or at your door.
- Documentation: Ask for official documents from the charity.
- Donation Method: Avoid cash donations; use traceable payment methods.
- Cause: Donate to causes you are familiar with and trust.
10. Counterfeit Products
Tourists can be targeted with fake versions of popular products.
- Retailer: Shop from established and reputable stores.
- Quality: Examine product quality carefully.
- Price: Beware of prices that seem too good to be true.
- Return Policy: Check if the store has a return policy.
- Brand Verification: Confirm product authenticity with the brand directly, if possible.
11. "Free" Offers
Free services or goods that require personal information could lead to scams.
- Terms: Understand the terms of the offer fully.
- Privacy: Consider what personal information is being requested.
- Value: Question the value of what is being offered for free.
- Purpose: Think about the motivation behind a free offer.
- Consent: Ensure you willingly agree to any terms before accepting.
12. SIM Card Scams
Street vendors may sell counterfeit or non-functional SIM cards.
- Vendor: Buy SIM cards from official retailers or at airports.
- Functionality: Test SIM cards immediately after purchase.
- Cost: Compare costs across vendors to avoid overcharging.
- Plan Details: Clarify terms of use and data limits upfront.
- Compatibility: Ensure the SIM card is compatible with your device.
13. Overpriced Souvenirs
Shops near tourist areas may charge excessive prices.
- Location: Shop away from major tourist spots.
- Comparison: Check prices at multiple stores.
- Material Quality: Assess the quality of items before purchasing.
- Bargain: Engage in negotiation where possible.
- Origin: Ensure authenticity, especially for traditional crafts.
14. Taxi Scam
Some drivers may not use the meter or take longer routes.
- Company: Use reputable taxi companies like those with phone apps.
- Route: Know your destination route beforehand.
- Meter Use: Insist on using the meter.
- Payment: Have the right amount or ensure you get the correct change.
- Timing: Use taxis during safer times, avoiding rush pricing.
15. Accommodation Booking Scams
Fake hotels or overbooked listings can leave you stranded.
- Platform: Book through reputable platforms.
- Confirmation: Get booking confirmation in writing.
- Reviews: Check multiple reviews from past guests.
- Payment: Use secure payment methods.
- Contact: Reach out to hotels directly to confirm reservations.
16. Job Scams
Offers involving up-front fees or personal info may be fraudulent.
- Legitimacy: Research company history and credibility.
- Fees: Avoid jobs asking for upfront payments.
- Contract: Insist on a written contract.
- Contact: Verify contact information and company address.
- Opportunity: Be wary of offers with unusually high salaries.
17. Art Student Scam
Individuals posing as students try to sell overpriced art.
- Prices: Compare prices with similar products elsewhere.
- Pressure: Avoid making purchases under pressure.
- Verification: Confirm their student status if applicable.
- Location: Be wary of such sales happening in non-commercial locations.
- Originality: Question the originality and value of the work.
18. Hotel Card Scam
Unauthorized individuals call hotel guests for credit card info.
- Verification: Never give card details over the phone without verifying.
- Alternation: Communicate directly with the hotel front desk in person.
- Identification: Confirm the caller's identity.
- Security: Use room safes for personal information.
- Procedure: Understand hotel protocols regarding payment and security.
19. Pedestrian Shoppers Scam
Someone "accidentally" spills something on you and an accomplice offers to clean, then steals belongings.
- Awareness: Stay aware of those around you.
- Assistance: Politely decline unnecessary help.
- Belongings: Keep all belongings close, especially during such incidents.
- Distraction: Don’t be distracted from your possessions.
- Company: Walk in groups where possible to deter scammers.
20. Visa Agent Scams
Unauthorized agents may charge fees for fake visa services.
- Credentials: Verify agency's authorization and credentials.
- Documentation: Handle all documentation personally and carefully.
- Fee Structure: Be cautious of fees that seem unusually high.
- Contact: Use the embassy or consulate’s official channels.
- Update: Stay informed about visa requirements through official sources.