Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Querétaro, Mexico

All Topics about Querétaro All Cities in Mexico

1. Taxis from Airport Scam

Unofficial taxis may overcharge or take longer routes. Use only licensed taxis or pre-arranged transportation.

Licensed Taxis: These are the official and authorized vehicles, with recognizable logo and license plate.
Pre-Arranged Transportation: Booking in advance helps ensure a reliable service and fixed price.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stick to well-lit, crowded areas when using transportation services.

Vendors may sell fake branded goods. Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs in local markets.

Check Quality: Authentic items have better quality, feel, and logo placement.
Ask for Receipt: Genuine sellers provide receipts or guarantees for their products.
Know the Market Prices: Research prices before shopping to avoid overpaying for fake goods.

Unfavorable exchange rates or additional fees may be applied. Use only reputable exchange centers.

Check Rates Online: Compare rates with online services before exchanging money.
Avoid Street Vendors: These vendors may offer lower rates but often provide poor exchange service.
Check for License: Legitimate exchange centers display their licenses and adhere to regulations.

Criminals install skimmers on ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs in well-lit, public areas and monitor your account regularly.

Secure ATMs: ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas are less likely to have skimmers.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly check your account for unauthorized transactions.

Restaurants may overcharge tourists. Be aware of menu prices and compare with other establishments.

Check Menus Carefully: Menus in tourist areas may have different pricing than menus inside the restaurant.
Ask for Recommendations: Locals can guide you to affordable, delicious eateries.
Stick to Fixed-Price Restaurants: Restaurants with fixed prices are less likely to overcharge.

Hotels may charge higher prices for tourists. Compare rates and book in advance.

Compare Rates Online: Use travel websites to compare accommodation prices.
Check Location: Accommodations close to attractions may charge a premium.
Negotiate Prices: Hotels may offer discounts for longer stays or off-season bookings.

Street performers may pressure tourists for money. Appreciate performances but avoid giving excessive tips.

Avoid Giving Large Amounts: Small change is often sufficient, and refusing excessive tipping helps maintain fair earnings.
Give Only Coins: Using coins instead of bills makes it easier to avoid large tips.
Support Local Talent: Legitimate performers appreciate your support while avoiding scammers.

Friendly strangers may offer help but lead you to a scam. Be cautious and stick to your plans.

Stay Alert: Maintain awareness of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
Follow Your Itinerary: Research attractions ahead of time and plan your route accordingly.
Share Travel Plans with Others: Inform friends or family members about your travel plans for added safety.

Rental cars may have hidden damage or additional charges. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before driving.

Inspect the Vehicle Carefully: Document any pre-existing damages and take photos for proof.
Check Contract Terms: Understand the contract terms, including fuel policies and additional fees.
Return the Vehicle in Good Condition: To avoid penalties, return the vehicle clean, without any damage.

Unattended parking lots may charge excessive fees or damage your car. Use designated and attended parking areas.

Use Attended Parking Lots: Attended lots have security personnel to help protect your vehicle.
Check for Permits or Stickers: Legitimate parking areas require permits or stickers, which are usually provided by the accommodation.
Avoid Parking on the Street: Street parking may result in fines or vehicle damage.

Free Wi-Fi spots may have malware. Use a VPN to secure your connection.

Use a VPN: A VPN encrypts your data and protects you from cyber threats.
Avoid Login Credentials: Don't enter sensitive information, such as passwords or bank details, on public Wi-Fi.
Use Secure Websites: Secure websites have HTTPS in the URL and a lock icon next to the address bar.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer low prices but provide poor service. Use only licensed and recommended guides.

Check for Licenses: Licensed guides display their licenses and are knowledgeable about the area.
Read Reviews: Online reviews help gauge the quality of a tour guide's service.
Negotiate Prices: Prices for tours can be negotiated, so don't accept the first offer.

Unlicensed excursions may overcharge or not deliver as promised. Book tours through reputable providers.

Check for Licenses: Licensed operators display their licenses and adhere to safety regulations.
Read Reviews: Online reviews help gauge the quality of an excursion provider's service.
Negotiate Prices: Prices for excursions can be negotiated, so don't accept the first offer.

Scammers may pose as charities to collect money. Research legitimate charities before donating.

Check the Charity's Legitimacy: Legitimate charities have verifiable information about their mission, finances, and impact.
Avoid Street Collectors: Street collectors may not represent legitimate organizations.
Donate Online: Online donations are more secure and help you research the charity before giving.

Counterfeit bills may be difficult to detect. Exchange money only at reputable locations.

Check the Quality of Bills: Authentic bills have better quality, feel, and security features.
Exchange Money at Reputable Locations: Reputable exchange locations are less likely to provide counterfeit money.
Keep Cash Securely: Store cash in a secure location, such as a money belt or hotel safe.