Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Gurgaon, India

Gurgaon, India, Gurgaon, Local Insights & Practical Info, Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Gurgaon, India

1. Rickshaw Overcharging

Avoid overpricing by rickshaws by negotiating the fare before starting your journey.
  • Know Fare Rates: Familiarize yourself with standard meter rates for auto-rickshaws.
  • Avoid Peak Hours: Travel during non-peak hours to avoid surge pricing.
  • Use Apps: Use taxi-hailing apps for a more reliable and transparent pricing system.

2. Fake Tour Guides

Verify tour guides by asking for official certification from DTCP (Gurgaon Development and Control of Buildings and Factories Department).
  • Check Certification: Ensure that the guide has an authentic certificate from DTCP.
  • Research Reputable Companies: Choose a reputed tour company with good reviews for hassle-free guided tours.
  • Stay Aware of Common Scams: Be informed about common scams to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous guides.

3. Counterfeit Goods Market

Avoid buying counterfeit goods by shopping at authorized outlets or online stores.
  • Recognize Counterfeits: Learn to identify the signs of counterfeit products, such as lower quality and unusual packaging.
  • Shop at Authorized Outlets: Purchase goods only from authorized dealers or established brands.
  • Be Wary of Overly Cheap Prices: Beware of overly cheap prices, as they may indicate counterfeit items.

4. ATM Card Skimming

Protect your ATM card from skimming by using machines in well-lit, crowded areas and covering the keypad while entering your PIN.
  • Choose Safe Locations: Use ATMs located in safe, well-lit areas, preferably inside banks or shopping malls.
  • Secure Your PIN: Be cautious while entering your PIN and cover the keypad to prevent others from seeing it.
  • Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your account statements for any unauthorized transactions.

5. Fraudulent Taxi Services

Avoid taxi services that refuse to use the meter and negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
  • Use Metered Taxis: Always choose metered taxis for a fair pricing system.
  • Avoid Late-night Travel: Travel during daytime to minimize the chances of fraudulent activities.
  • Stay Informed about Licensed Companies: Research licensed taxi companies in Gurgaon to ensure a safe and reliable service.

6. Sim Swapping Scams

Protect your SIM card from swapping by setting up a PIN or password for mobile banking transactions.
  • Secure Mobile Banking: Set up a PIN or password for mobile banking transactions to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account statements for any unusual activity.
  • Report Suspicious Activity: Inform your network provider immediately if you suspect a SIM swap scam.

7. Shops with Hidden Charges

Avoid shops that do not display prices clearly or try to charge hidden fees.
  • Check Price Lists: Always check the price list before making a purchase.
  • Negotiate Fees Upfront: Negotiate any additional fees or charges upfront to avoid hidden costs.
  • Shop at Reputable Stores: Choose reputed stores with good reviews for transparent pricing.

8. Fake Police Stations

Stay aware of the locations of genuine police stations and only approach authorized personnel.
  • Know Legitimate Police Stations: Familiarize yourself with the locations of genuine police stations in Gurgaon.
  • Verify Police Personnel: Always confirm the identity of any police personnel you encounter before sharing personal information.
  • Stay Informed about Scams: Remain informed about common scams to avoid falling victim to fraudulent police impersonators.

9. Dating Scams

Avoid sharing personal or financial information with strangers on dating platforms and apps.
  • Verify User Identity: Perform a background check on potential matches to verify their identity.
  • Meet in Public Places: Always meet new people in public places and let someone know your plans.
  • Never Transfer Money: Refrain from transferring money to strangers, especially on dating platforms.

10. Bogus Charity Scams

Verify the authenticity of charities by checking their registration details and online reviews.
  • Check Registration Details: Ensure the charity is registered with the CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) wing of a reputed company.
  • Research Online Reviews: Check online reviews for feedback on the charity's transparency and impact.
  • Avoid Cash Donations: Prefer making donations through bank transfer or reputable online platforms to minimize fraud risks.

11. Fraudulent Wi-Fi Networks

Avoid using unsecured Wi-Fi networks that may pose a threat to your personal information.
  • Use Secure Connections: Always use a VPN or secure connection when accessing sensitive data online.
  • Avoid Public Wi-Fis for Sensitive Transactions: Perform sensitive transactions, such as banking, on a secure network.
  • Install a Reliable Security Software: Install and regularly update a reliable antivirus software on your devices.

12. Falsified Tickets for Attractions

Purchase attraction tickets only from authorized vendors or official websites to avoid counterfeits.
  • Buy from Official Channels: Purchase tickets directly from the attraction's official website or authorized vendors.
  • Check for Authenticity: Inspect the ticket for signs of authenticity, such as holograms or watermarks.
  • Avoid Late-night Transactions: Purchase tickets during regular business hours to minimize the chances of scams.

13. Fake Money Exchange Shops

Exchange money only at authorized foreign exchange dealers or banks to avoid receiving counterfeit bills.
  • Choose Authorized Dealers: Exchange money only at authorized foreign exchange dealers or banks.
  • Check Currency Condition: Verify the condition of the currency before accepting it.
  • Count Money Carefully: Count the money received carefully to ensure you have been given the correct amount.

14. Car Hire Scams

Rent a car from reputed companies and read the contract thoroughly to avoid hidden fees.
  • Choose Reputed Companies: Rent cars only from reputed companies with good reviews.
  • Read Contract Carefully: Thoroughly read the rental agreement to understand any additional fees or charges.
  • Check Car Condition: Inspect the car for damage before taking possession to avoid being charged for existing issues.

15. Street Food Poisoning

Avoid street food from unhygienic vendors and choose stalls with clean environments and fresh ingredients.
  • Check for Cleanliness: Choose street food stalls with clean cooking areas and utensils.
  • Look for Fresh Ingredients: Opt for stalls that use fresh ingredients instead of pre-prepared foods.
  • Avoid Risky Foods: Avoid consuming high-risk foods such as undercooked meat and unpasteurized dairy products.