Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Voronezh, Russia

1. Tram Scams

Be wary of strangers offering help on trams. They might distract the driver to steal your belongings.

Unexpected Distraction: Strangers create a distraction to pickpocket
Tram Travel: Occurs primarily on public transportation
Avoiding Confrontation: Scammers often work in pairs or groups, making confrontation difficult

Unlicensed taxi drivers may overcharge or take circuitous routes. Use only officially licensed taxis.

Be vigilant when receiving change or making transactions. Check Russian ruble notes for security features.

Inadequate Security Features: Counterfeit bills lack proper security elements
Selling Counterfeit Goods: Vendors may use counterfeit money to purchase items
Checking Change: Always check your change for accuracy

Cover the keypad when entering PIN to prevent keyloggers. Check ATMs for tampering before use.

Keep belongings close and be aware of crowds, especially in bustling markets. Secure your bag with a zipper or strap.

Crowded Spaces: Pickpockets thrive in crowded, distracting environments
Valuables in Sight: Leaving valuables visible invites potential theft
Bustling Atmosphere: The energy and excitement can distract you from your surroundings

Artists may pressure you to buy their work for inflated prices. Be sure to negotiate and verify the artist's credentials.

Pressure Tactics: Artists use high-pressure sales techniques
Inflated Prices: Prices are often artificially inflated to exploit tourists
Unlicensed Artists: Many street artists in Voronezh do not have official permits

Some guides may charge exorbitant fees or lead you to overpriced stores. Research guides and tours beforehand.

Exorbitant Fees: Guides may charge excessive prices for their services
Biased Recommendations: Guides may lead you to overpriced or low-quality establishments
Lack of Credentials: Unlicensed guides may lack the necessary knowledge and expertise

Be wary of apartments or cars for rent that seem too good to be true. Research rental companies thoroughly beforehand.

Too Good to be True: Rental prices are significantly cheaper than market rates
Fraudulent Owners: Rentals may be fraudulently offered by unscrupulous individuals
Hidden Fees: Additional fees, such as utilities or maintenance, may be concealed

Be cautious when communicating with individuals online who ask for money or financial assistance. Do not send money to strangers.

Money Requests: Scammers may ask for money for various reasons, such as travel expenses
Emotional Manipulation: Scammers use emotional manipulation to gain your trust
Identity Theft: Scammers may steal personal information for fraudulent purposes

Shops may display high-quality items but sell lower-quality ones instead. Inspect goods carefully before purchasing.

Low-Quality Goods: Items sold are of significantly lower quality than advertised
Price Discrepancies: Prices for high-quality items may be artificially inflated
Misleading Display: High-quality items are hidden or not easily accessible

Impostors posing as police officers may ask for documents or money. Legitimate police officers will not request money from the public.

Document Theft: Scammers may steal your passport or other identification
Money Extortion: Scammers may demand money under the guise of a fine or bribe
Unusual Requests: Requests for personal information, documents, or cash are unusual for police interactions

Be cautious when donating to street charities. Research the legitimacy of the organization before giving.

Unverified Organizations: Charities may not be officially registered or recognized
Fake Collectors: Individuals may pose as charity collectors to solicit donations
Misallocation of Funds: Donated funds may not be used for their intended purpose

Be cautious when booking accommodations that seem too cheap or offer unbelievable deals. Research prices and reviews beforehand.

Cheap Prices: Accommodation prices are significantly cheaper than market rates
Negative Reviews: Previous guests have reported poor quality or fraudulent practices
Unrealistic Deals: Accommodations offering unbelievable deals may be scams

Counterfeit tickets may be sold for popular tourist attractions. Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors.

Counterfeit Tickets: Tickets are invalid or do not grant access to the attraction
Unauthorized Vendors: Vendors may sell counterfeit tickets to exploit tourists
Overpriced Tickets: Tickets are significantly more expensive than the actual price

Be cautious when using cybercafes for sensitive activities. Use a VPN and avoid saving passwords on public computers.

Data Theft: Cybercafes may have malware that steals your data
Keylogging Devices: Cybercafes may use keyloggers to capture your keystrokes
Unsecured Networks: Using unsecure networks can facilitate data theft and identity fraud