Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Naucalpan de Juárez, Mexico
1. Taxi Scam at Airport
Unauthorized taxi drivers offering rides at the airport may overcharge or take longer routes. Always use official taxis.
- Official Taxis: These are licensed and have a meter.
- Pre-arranged Rides: Booking a ride in advance can avoid unexpected charges.
- Avoid Street Hails: Street hailings can lead to overpricing and potential safety risks.
2. Counterfeit Goods Market
Markets selling goods that are copies or of low quality. Be cautious when shopping in such markets.
- Check for Quality: Avoid products with poor workmanship and materials.
- Buy from Reputable Shops: Shop at establishments with a good reputation.
- Check Labels: Check for misspellings or incorrect branding on products.
3. Sim Card Scam at Phone Shops
Some phone shops may provide SIM cards with hidden charges. Buy from reputable providers.
- Reputable Providers: Look for well-known brands and established businesses.
- Check Contracts: Always read contracts carefully before signing.
- Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on phone shops.
4. ATM Skimming
Criminals use skimming devices to steal card information at ATMs. Use ATMs located in secure areas or inside banks.
- Secure Areas: ATMs in well-lit, populated areas are less likely to be targeted.
- Cover the Keypad: Covering the keypad can prevent keyloggers from capturing your PIN.
- Monitor Account Regularly: Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions.
5. Street Food Scam
Some street food vendors may use low-quality ingredients or even contaminated food. Choose busy and popular food stalls.
- Busy and Popular Stalls: These are more likely to follow health regulations.
- Check Hygiene: Look for clean work areas and hygienic practices.
- Ask Locals: Locals can recommend reliable street food vendors.
6. Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed tour guides may overcharge or lead you to places with commission-based deals. Always book tours through reputable agencies.
- Reputable Agencies: Ask for recommendations and read reviews before booking.
- Check Licenses: Legitimate tour guides will have proper identification.
- Avoid Street Approaches: Street solicitations may be scams.
7. Festival Scam
Some festivals may charge inflated prices for food, drinks, and merchandise. Research prices beforehand and carry cash.
- Research Prices: Knowing the average cost can help you avoid overpricing.
- Carry Cash: Credit cards may not be accepted at every stand, so carry enough cash.
- Avoid Deserted Areas: Stay in well-lit, populated areas to avoid potential theft or harassment.
8. Drug Offer Scam
Offers of drugs may be scams intended to rob or extort you. Politely refuse and avoid such situations.
- Avoid Suspicious Situations: Stay away from isolated or deserted areas, especially at night.
- Report to Authorities: If you feel threatened, report the incident to local authorities.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant and avoid showing signs of intoxication or vulnerability.
9. Charity Scam
Some people may ask for donations for non-existent charities or use the money for personal gain. Verify charities before donating.
- Verify Charities: Check with local authorities or reputable organizations to ensure legitimacy.
- Don't Carry Large Amounts: Carry only the cash you need and keep valuables secure.
- Avoid Solicitations at Night: Solicitations at night may be more likely to be scams.
10. Fake Police Scam
Some individuals may pose as police officers to rob or extort you. Always ask for identification and contact local authorities.
- Ask for Identification: Legitimate officers will always carry identification.
- Contact Local Authorities: If in doubt, contact local authorities to verify their identity.
- Stay Calm and Cooperative: Refuse any requests for unnecessary personal items or access to your belongings.
11. Exchange Rate Scam
Some exchange booths may offer unfavorable exchange rates. Use established banks or hotels for currency exchange.
- Established Banks and Hotels: These are more likely to provide fair exchange rates.
- Check Exchange Rates Online: Know the current exchange rate before making transactions.
- Avoid Street Exchanges: Street exchanges may offer unfavorable rates or use counterfeit money.
12. Museum Entrance Scam
Some museums may charge inflated prices for entrance fees. Check ticket prices online and plan ahead.
- Check Ticket Prices Online: Knowing the correct price can help you avoid overpricing.
- Buy Tickets at the Museum Entrance: Tickets sold online may not be valid or have additional fees.
- Ask for Receipts: Always ask for a receipt to verify the transaction.
13. Ticket Scalping Scam
Scalpers may sell tickets at inflated prices or provide fake tickets. Purchase tickets from official outlets.
- Official Outlets: Tickets sold by scalpers may be counterfeit or overpriced.
- Check Ticket Prices Online: Knowing the correct price can help you avoid overpricing.
- Avoid Street Transactions: Street transactions may be scams or unsafe.
14. Overpriced Accommodation Scam
Some accommodation providers may charge inflated prices. Research and compare prices before booking.
- Research and Compare Prices: Knowing the average price can help you avoid overpricing.
- Read Reviews: Reviews can provide insight into the quality and fairness of the accommodation.
- Book in Advance: Last-minute bookings may result in overpricing.
15. Unauthorized Money Exchange Scam
Individuals offering to exchange money on the street may use counterfeit money or provide unfavorable rates. Only exchange money at banks or reputable establishments.
- Banks and Reputable Establishments: These are more likely to provide fair exchange rates and authentic currency.
- Check Exchange Rates Online: Knowing the current exchange rate can help you avoid unfavorable rates.
- Avoid Street Transactions: Street transactions may be scams or unsafe.