Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Cúcuta, Colombia

1. Currency Exchange Scams

Watch for hidden fees at unofficial exchange booths. Always use authorized exchange centers.

Hidden Fees: Fees may not be displayed, making the exchange rate seem more favorable.
Unauthorized Booths: Exchange rates at unofficial booths may be unfavorable or fraudulent.
Lack of Protection: Transactions at authorized centers are insured and protected.

Avoid taxis without a meter or without the official logo. Use reputable taxi companies.

No Meter: Fraudulent drivers may charge an inflated fare.
Without Logo: Taxis without the official logo may not be registered or authorized.
Reputable Companies: Companies with a good reputation offer reliable and fair services.

Bargain for prices at markets and shops. Be aware of tourist traps selling overpriced items.

Tourist Traps: Some locations specifically target tourists with high prices.
Market Bargaining: Markets are a great place to find lower prices, but be prepared to negotiate.
Local Shops: Locally-owned shops may offer more reasonable prices and authentic items.

Be cautious when purchasing branded goods from street vendors or unauthorized sellers.

Street Vendors: Products sold by street vendors may be counterfeit.
Unauthorized Sellers: Counterfeit goods may not meet safety standards and are illegal.
Official Stores: Branded products can be purchased from authorized stores with a guarantee.

Buy SIM cards only at official retailers. Be wary of unsolicited help offering cheaper deals.

Official Retailers: SIM cards purchased from authorized dealers are legitimate.
Unsolicited Help: Individuals offering cheap SIM cards may sell counterfeit or fraudulent ones.
Cheaper Deals: Cheap deals can lead to service interruptions or hidden charges.

Use ATMs at banks and reputable locations. Be cautious when using outdoor ATMs.

Bank ATMs: ATMs located at banks have increased security measures.
Reputable Locations: ATMs at reputable locations are less likely to be tampered with.
Outdoor ATMs: Outdoor ATMs may be more susceptible to skimming devices.

Verify the identity of police officers by asking for their ID and contact the local police station if needed.

ID Verification: Police officers should be able to present a valid ID.
Contact Local Police: If unsure, contact the local police station for assistance.
Legitimate Interactions: Police officers should not request personal belongings or money without just cause.

Be wary of individuals who express strong emotions quickly and ask for financial assistance.

Emotional Expressions: Individuals asking for money should not be overly emotional.
Financial Assistance: Requests for financial assistance are a red flag.
Meet in Person: Meeting the person in person can help verify their identity and intentions.

Be cautious when giving money to street beggars. Some may be part of organized scams.

Organized Scams: Some beggars are part of groups that share the collected money.
Alternatives to Money: Giving food, drinks, or clothing can be helpful without encouraging dependency.
Suspicious Behavior: Beggars exhibiting suspicious behavior may be part of a scam.

Keep your belongings secure at all times, especially in crowded areas. Use anti-theft bags and wallets.

Crowded Areas: Pickpocketing is more common in crowded places.
Anti-Theft Items: Items with anti-theft properties can help protect your belongings.
Secure Storage: Keeping your belongings secure, even when not in use, helps prevent theft.

Research charities before donating to ensure they are legitimate. Be wary of solicitations in the street.

Legitimate Charities: Donate to well-known, reputable charities.
Street Solicitations: Solicitations in the street may be part of a scam.
Research: Proper research can help ensure your donation is used effectively.

Research accommodations in advance and compare prices. Use reputable booking sites or local recommendations.

Reputable Booking Sites: Booking sites offer a guarantee and can help avoid scams.
Local Recommendations: Locals can provide recommendations for reasonably priced accommodations.
Price Comparison: Comparing prices can help avoid overpriced accommodations.

Book guided tours through reputable agencies or tourism offices. Verify the guide's credentials.

Reputable Agencies: Agencies with a good reputation offer reliable services.
Tourism Offices: Tourism offices can provide recommendations for reputable guides and tours.
Credentials Verification: Guides should be able to present their credentials and licenses.

Rent cars only from reputable companies. Inspect the car for damage before driving away.

Reputable Companies: Companies with a good reputation offer reliable services.
Damage Inspection: Inspecting the car for damage can help avoid charges for pre-existing damage.
Insurance Coverage: Check insurance coverage to ensure protection against damages and theft.

Avoid restaurants in tourist areas with low reviews or no reviews. Use recommendations from locals or online sources.

Low Reviews: Restaurants with low reviews may serve poor food or overcharge.
No Reviews: New restaurants without reviews may not be established or reliable.
Local Recommendations: Locals can provide recommendations for good, reasonably priced restaurants.