
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Manila, Philippines

1. The "Fake Money" Scam
Scammers may try to give fake bills in change. Always check notes received and familiarize yourself with authentic currency features to avoid being a victim. This addresses the challenge of counterfeit currency circulation.
- Familiarity with Currency: Know the symbols and security features of authentic Philippine banknotes.
- Transact in Daylight: Hand over cash and receive change in well-lit areas to easily determine authenticity.
- Use Official Bureaus: Exchange money only at authorized foreign exchange outlets or banks.
- Double-Check Change: Always count your change in front of the vendor.
- Stay Alert: Be aware of surroundings when handling large sums of money.

2. Taxi Overcharge
Some drivers refuse to use meters, quote a fixed rate, or take longer routes. To avoid this, insist on using a metered taxi and know approximate fare costs beforehand. This solves the issue of unfair transportation costs.
- Demand Metered Fare: Always insist that the driver uses the meter.
- Know Your Route: Have a basic understanding of the geography or use a navigation app.
- Choose Reputable Companies: Look for registered taxis with IDs and company logos.
- Stay Alert to Signs: Signs indicating taxi rates and routes can help verify costs.
- Avoid Hailing from Streets: Use app-based services like Grab for better pricing transparency.

3. Street Vendor Tricks
Vendors may sell counterfeit goods or claim goods are handmade or unique when they are not. Be skeptical of extremely low prices and check product quality before buying. This addresses deception in merchandise quality.
- Research Local Arts: Understand what authentic local art and goods look like.
- Inspect Goods: Physically examine items for quality and authenticity.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices with other vendors to get a fair idea of actual costs.
- Avoid Impulse Buys: Take your time to decide on a purchase.
- Learn Basic Tagalog Phrases: Knowing some local language can aid in negotiations.

4. The "Friendly Local"
A stranger may offer unsolicited help or guide you to a destination, only to demand money later. Politely decline help and use reliable sources like maps or hotel staff for directions. This prevents unexpected service fees.
- Firm But Polite Decline: Be wary of unsolicited offers and firmly refuse.
- Preplan Routes: Know your route or plan it before leaving your accommodation.
- Use Hotel Resources: Seek assistance from hotel staff for reliable information.
- Stay Confident: Exude confidence to deter scammers.
- Stick to Busy Areas: Stay in crowded areas where help is readily available.

5. ATM Scams
Skimmers may be installed in ATMs to steal card details. Use ATMs in secure locations like banks and cover your keypad when entering your PIN. This addresses financial security.
- Inspect ATM Machines: Look for unusual devices attached to the machine.
- Use Indoor ATMs: Prefer those inside banks or guarded places.
- Shield Pin Entry: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
- Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank statements for unauthorized transactions.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Immediately report any suspected tampering to authorities.

6. Pickpocketing
Crowded places are ideal for pickpockets targeting tourists. Use anti-theft bags and keep valuables in secure locations on your body. This prevents loss of personal items.
- Use Hidden Pouches: Invest in travel pouches worn underneath clothing.
- Stay Alert: Be especially cautious in crowded areas.
- Distribute Valuables: Don't keep all your belongings in one place.
- Avoid Displaying Wealth: Refrain from using or showing expensive gadgets or accessories.
- Keep Bags Close: Always carry bags in front, especially in busy areas.

7. The "Found Ring" Trick
A scammer pretends to find a valuable ring and offers it as a gift, then asks for a reward. Politely refuse and walk away; this avoids falling into a guilt trap. This addresses manipulation through deceit.
- Recognize the Setup: Understand common scam setups and ignore them.
- Avoid Engagement: Do not engage or entertain their story.
- Walk Confidently Away: Stay polite but firm and avoid further conversation.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.
- Share Experiences: Share your experience with others to raise awareness.

8. Restaurant Menu Scams
Sometimes hidden charges are added to bills. Review menus carefully and ask about any additional charges. This ensures transparency in dining costs.
- Ask About Service Charges: Clarify if service fees are included in the menu prices.
- Check the Menu: Verify prices before ordering and ask for itemized receipts.
- Align with Locals: Follow locals into popular eating spots known for fairness.
- Inspect Bills Thoroughly: Double-check your bill before paying.
- Keep Proof: Retain receipts in case of disputes.

9. Fake Tourist Offices
Scam artists may pose as official tourist guides and sell overpriced tickets or fake tours. Validate the credentials of tour operators and verify deals with your hotel. This avoids being overcharged and deceitful offers.
- Research Official Outlets: Understand which offices are legitimate for tours.
- Book Through Reputable Agencies: Use known travel sites or hotel booking services.
- Seek Local Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff about trustworthy operators.
- Verify Credentials: Always ask to see the ID and validation of tour operators.
- Avoid Street Promoters: Be skeptical of impromptu tourist deals offered on the street.

10. Time-Share Presentation
You might be lured with free gifts or event invites only to be subjected to high-pressure sales tactics for timeshares. Always research before committing to any contracts and avoid sharing personal details. This protects from high-pressure sales tactics.
- Research Before Attending: Understand the nature of any promotional events.
- Stay Firm on Decisions: Do not feel compelled to make immediate decisions.
- Guard Personal Information: Do not share sensitive data without validation.
- Understand Ownership Costs: Be fully aware of any long-term commitments or dues.
- Listen to Reviews: Heed advice from those who have attended similar offers.

11. SIM Card Fraud
Unauthorized vendors may sell SIM cards with limited validity or fake data plans. Purchase SIMs from official retailers or within the airport. This ensures you stay connected without unnecessary costs.
- Buy from Authorized Sellers: Use official service provider stores only.
- Verify Plans: Double-check plan details including data limits and validity.
- Activate in Store: Have the seller activate your SIM in front of you.
- Request Documentation: Obtain a receipt with detailed plan information.
- Understand Usage Rules: Know the terms of use and any hidden charges.

12. Hotel Booking Scheme
Fake or nonexistent room bookings may be advertised online. Use reputable booking platforms and confirm directly with the hotel. This saves money and prevents accommodation hassle.
- Check Hotel Reviews: Verify hotel credibility through traveler reviews.
- Confirm Directly: Contact the hotel to confirm your booking.
- Use Trusted Platforms: Employ well-known travel booking sites to secure reservations.
- Verify Location and Services: Ensure location and services match what is advertised.
- Retain Booking Confirmations: Keep a printed or digital copy of your booking details.

13. Bar and Club Scams
Inflated bills for drinks or being charged for drinks you didn't order are common. Pay as you go and retain receipts to avoid disputes. This maintains transparency in entertainment expenses.
- Tab Tracking: Keep a personal track of orders and expenses.
- Request Receipts: Always ask for and keep receipts for every transaction.
- Know the Prices: Clarify drink prices with staff prior to ordering.
- Pay in Small Installments: Settle bills for each order instead of a collective tab.
- Be Cautious of Invitations: Be wary of strangers inviting you for drinks.

14. Street Child Begging Racket
Groups may exploit children to garner sympathy and money. Instead of giving money, donate to local charities. This reduces support for organized exploitation.
- Donate Wisely: Support verified charitable organizations.
- Be Cautious of Guilt Trips: Recognize emotional manipulation tactics.
- Guide Towards Resources: Provide information for shelters or aid services.
- Report Concerns: Alert local authorities to suspected exploitation.
- Travel with Snacks: Offer food instead of cash when approached.

15. Phony Accident
Falling or staged accidents might be used to solicit compensation. Stay calm and contact authorities if needed; avoid paying on the spot. This protects from undue financial liability.
- Stay Collected: Remain composed in the face of unexpected claims.
- Refuse Immediate Payment: Do not succumb to pressure for compensation.
- Contact Authorities: Involve local law enforcement if necessary.
- Don't Accept Blame: Be cautious of taking verbal blame or responsibility.
- Request Witness Accounts: Gather details from bystanders if any.

16. Tourist Shopping Trap
Guides may shepherd you to specific shops for commissions, often leading to overpriced purchases. Research popular shopping areas and self-explore. This ensures fair pricing on souvenirs.
- Self-Guided Exploration: Plan personal shopping itineraries.
- Seek Local Insights: Get recommendations from trusted locals or peers.
- Compare Prices: Avoid buying from the first shop and compare prices.
- Recognize Pressure Sales: Identify and steer clear of high-pressure sales tactics.
- Research Souvenir Pricing: Have a ballpark idea of general souvenir prices.

17. Fake "Police" Officers
Some scammers impersonate police and demand on-the-spot fines. Always ask for identification and refuse to pay fines directly. This avoids unjust legal penalties.
- Ask for Official ID: Request to see proper identification from supposed officers.
- Know Local Laws: Be informed about basic local regulations and laws.
- Contact Local Authorities: Verify claims through local law enforcement offices.
- Stay Calm: Keep composed during confrontations.
- Refuse Immediate Payment: Be firm in refusing on-the-spot fines.

18. Photo Opportunity Scam
People may offer to take photos for a fee without disclosing the charge upfront. Clarify any costs before agreeing to services. This prevents unexpected charges for simple services.
- Confirm Costs Upfront: Always discuss and agree on prices beforehand.
- Take Your Own Photos: Self-capture moments using tripod or selfie stick.
- Use Trusted Tour Guides: Engage only with verified guides for assistance.
- Observe Others: Watch how locals handle similar situations.
- Be Clear in Treating Offers: Politely decline offers that come with uncertain costs.

19. The "Dropped Goods" Trick
A scammer might "accidentally" drop goods like fruit and claim you broke it, demanding payment. Apologize but refuse payment and walk away. This sidesteps false damage claims.
- Beware of Staged Errors: Recognize staged accidents and keep distance.
- Decline Payment Offers: Politely deny any demands for payment.
- Seek Nearby Help: Look for help or intervention from passersby or nearby vendors.
- Stand Your Ground: Remain firm yet respectful if confronted.
- Keep Communications Brief: Avoid lengthy engagement over the incident.

20. Friendship Bracelet Con
Strangers may offer you a bracelet as a gift and then demand money. Avoid accepting unsolicited gifts and walk away quickly. This prevents unwanted financial agreements.
- Avoid Accepting Gifts: Refuse free gifts offered by strangers.
- Maintain Distance: Keep space from vendors holding such items.
- Politely Decline: Use clear communication to reject the offer.
- Move Swiftly Away: Leave the area promptly once approached.
- Be Polite but Firm: Maintain a polite demeanor while being firm in refusal.