Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Abeokuta, Nigeria
1. Taxi Scams
Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Avoid this by negotiating prices beforehand and using reputable taxi services.
- Price Negotiation: Negotiate the price before starting the journey to avoid unexpected charges.
- Reputable Services: Use reputable and well-known taxi services for a safer experience.
- Agree on Route: Ask the driver to agree on the route before starting the journey.
2. Currency Exchange Scams
Dishonest currency exchange dealers may give less money than agreed or use counterfeit bills. Use authorized exchange bureaus for a fair and safe transaction.
- Authorized Exchange Bureaus: Use authorized exchange bureaus recognized by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
- Check Counterfeit Bills: Inspect your money carefully before leaving the exchange office to ensure it's genuine.
- Negotiate Rates: Negotiate rates before exchanging currencies to get a fair deal.
3. Fake Tour Guides
Some tour guides may provide incorrect information or lead you to scams. Choose registered and reputable tour companies for a genuine experience.
- Registered Tour Companies: Choose registered tour companies approved by the Abeokuta Tourism Board.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other travelers before hiring a guide.
- Ask for Credentials: Ask guides for their credentials, licenses, and affiliations with professional tourism organizations.
4. Overpriced Souvenirs
Sellers may overprice souvenirs or sell counterfeit items. Bargain and shop around for fair prices.
- Bargaining: Bargain with the seller to get a better price.
- Shop Around: Visit multiple shops to compare prices and find the best deals.
- Check Quality: Inspect souvenirs for quality before purchasing them.
5. ATM Scams
Some ATMs may skim cards or charge excessive fees. Use ATMs in banks or well-known businesses for a secure transaction.
- Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located within banks for added security.
- Well-Known Businesses: Choose ATMs located in well-known businesses, such as shopping malls or supermarkets.
- Monitor Transactions: Monitor your account for unauthorized transactions after using an ATM.
6. Dining Scams
Restaurants may add unexpected charges or serve lower-quality food. Research restaurants before dining out and ask for itemized bills.
- Research Restaurants: Read reviews and check ratings of restaurants online.
- Ask for Itemized Bills: Request an itemized bill to avoid hidden charges.
- Tasting Before Ordering: Ask for a taste before ordering to ensure the quality of the food.
7. Hotel Scams
Some hotels may overcharge or provide poor service. Choose reputable and well-reviewed hotels for a comfortable stay.
- Reputable Hotels: Choose hotels with good reviews and ratings from other travelers.
- Check Room Rates: Compare room rates across different hotels to ensure you're getting a fair price.
- Ask for Amenities: Ask about the amenities included in the room rate, such as Wi-Fi and breakfast.
8. Bus Tickets Scams
Unscrupulous bus conductors may sell you fake tickets or overcharge. Purchase tickets from authorized bus stations.
- Authorized Bus Stations: Buy your bus ticket from an authorized and reputable bus station.
- Check Ticket Prices: Compare ticket prices with other travelers to avoid overpaying.
- Inspect Your Ticket: Examine your bus ticket for validity before boarding the vehicle.
9. Sim Card Scams
Some sim card vendors may sell you a non-working or counterfeit SIM card. Buy SIM cards from authorized dealers.
- Authorized Dealers: Purchase your SIM card from authorized retailers or service providers.
- Check for Network Coverage: Ensure the network has good coverage in the areas you plan to visit.
- Ask for Assistance: Ask for assistance from staff members when activating or loading credit onto your SIM card.
10. Market Scams
Some market vendors may use unfair trading practices or sell counterfeit goods. Bargain and shop around for fair prices.
- Bargaining: Bargain with the seller to get a better price.
- Shop Around: Visit multiple shops to compare prices and find the best deals.
- Check Quality: Inspect goods for quality before purchasing them.
11. Event Ticket Scams
Some event ticket vendors may sell you fake or overpriced tickets. Buy from authorized ticket outlets or the event organizers.
- Authorized Ticket Outlets: Buy your tickets from authorized ticket outlets or the event organizers.
- Check Ticket Prices: Compare ticket prices with other sources to avoid overpaying.
- Ask for Receipt: Request a receipt or proof of purchase for your tickets.
12. Charity Scams
Some charities may use your donations unfairly or not provide the services promised. Research charities before donating.
- Research Charities: Check a charity's reputation and legitimacy before donating.
- Ask for Receipts: Request receipts or proof of your donation for tax purposes.
- Check the Cause: Ensure the charity's cause aligns with your values and beliefs.
13. Internet Café Scams
Some internet cafes may install keyloggers or viruses on your device. Use cafes with good reviews and check for security measures.
- Good Reviews: Choose an internet cafe with positive reviews from other users.
- Security Measures: Check if the internet cafe has security measures, such as firewalls and antivirus software.
- Use Secure Websites: Only use secure websites when accessing sensitive information online.
14. Lodging Scams
Some lodgings may offer subpar accommodations or overcharge. Choose reputable and well-reviewed lodgings for a comfortable stay.
- Reputable Lodgings: Choose lodgings with good reviews and ratings from other travelers.
- Check Room Rates: Compare room rates across different lodgings to ensure you're getting a fair price.
- Ask for Amenities: Ask about the amenities included in the room rate, such as Wi-Fi and breakfast.
15. Renting Property Scams
Some landlords may provide substandard properties or overcharge. Research properties and ask for references before renting.
- Research Properties: Check a property's reputation, pricing, and available amenities online.
- Ask for References: Request references from previous tenants to ensure a positive rental experience.
- Inspect the Property: Visit the property and inspect it for damage, cleanliness, and safety before renting.