Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ahmedabad, Gujarāt, India

1. Auto-rickshaw scams

Avoid overcharging and fake destinations by negotiating fares beforehand or using app-based auto services.

Negotiation: Bargain to ensure a fair price.
App-based Services: Use services like Ola and Uber for reliable fares.
Knowledgeable Negotiation: Understand the general price range of a journey before negotiating.

Avoid unlicensed or overpriced guides by researching registered tourist agencies online.

Registered Agencies: Look for government-approved tour operators.
Online Research: Read reviews and check ratings before booking tours.
Ask for Credentials: Request proof of registration or licensing from guides and operators.

Avoid purchasing counterfeits by shopping at authorized stores or reputable markets.

Authorized Stores: Buy branded items from authorized dealers.
Reputable Markets: Visit reliable, well-known markets for authentic local products.
Price Checking: Be wary of unusually low prices, as it may indicate a counterfeit item.

Avoid being overcharged by checking prices at multiple jewelry stores or verifying the authenticity of gold.

Multiple Stores: Compare prices between different jewelers.
Authenticity Check: Ask for hallmark certification or test the purity of gold with a testing kit.
Experienced Jeweler: Purchase jewelry from trusted jewelers with good reputation.

Avoid buying glasses without a receipt or warranty and ensure the shop is registered.

Receipt and Warranty: Always ask for a receipt and warranty when purchasing glasses.
Registered Shops: Only buy from registered optical stores.
Eye Test: Get a professional eye test before purchasing glasses.

Enjoy authentic pakodas by buying from popular and busy stalls with visible ingredients.

Popular Stalls: Choose stalls that are bustling with customers.
Visible Ingredients: Check for visible ingredients to ensure freshness and authenticity.
Food Safety: Be cautious about food safety, especially when eating street food.

Avoid skin irritation or infection by verifying the hygiene of the salon and checking for licenses.

Hygiene Standards: Look for a clean and organized salon with proper sanitation.
Licensed Salons: Check if the salon is licensed or registered with local authorities.
Product Quality: Ensure the products used are authentic and of good quality.

Avoid fake tickets by purchasing from authorized vendors or booking online through trustworthy platforms.

Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets from reliable outlets at the event venue.
Online Platforms: Use reputable online ticket booking services like BookMyShow or Paytm.
Advance Booking: Book tickets in advance to avoid last-minute scams.

Avoid overpriced or fake tickets by purchasing from authorized vendors or official websites.

Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets only from the stadium box office or authorized ticket outlets.
Official Websites: Purchase tickets through official websites of the team or event organizers.
Avoid Last Minute Buying: Buy tickets in advance to avoid last-minute scams and overpricing.

Avoid being misled by using GPS or map apps to navigate the city.

GPS or Map Apps: Use navigation tools like Google Maps to guide your taxi driver.
Knowledge of Destination: Research your destination beforehand to ensure you provide accurate directions.
Avoid Overpaying: Negotiate fares in advance or use app-based taxi services for fair pricing.

Avoid unexpected price hikes by asking about prices before ordering or dining at well-known establishments.

Price Inquiry: Always ask for the price of dishes before ordering.
Reputable Restaurants: Dine at established, popular restaurants with good reviews.
Avoid Peak Hours: Try to avoid peak meal times to reduce the chance of overcharging.

Avoid unauthorized tour guides by booking a guided tour through authorized channels or using self-guided audio tours.

Authorized Tours: Book a guided tour through the Sabarmati Ashram Trust.
Self-guided Audio Tours: Use audio tours provided by the Ashram or download them beforehand.
Official Guides Only: Only accept guided tours from authorized staff members of the Ashram.

Avoid purchasing counterfeits by shopping at authorized stores or reputable sections of the market.

Authorized Stores: Buy branded items from authorized dealers.
Reputable Sections: Visit reliable, well-known sections of the market for authentic local products.
Price Checking: Be wary of unusually low prices, as it may indicate a counterfeit item.

Avoid buying fake or stolen antiques by researching the item's history and authenticity before purchasing.

Item History Research: Learn about the history of the antique to ensure its authenticity.
Professional Appraisal: Have the item appraised by a professional before purchasing.
Legal Purchase: Ensure the antique is legally acquired and not stolen property.

Avoid purchasing counterfeits by checking for branded packaging, warranties, and product quality.

Branded Packaging: Check if the item comes in original, branded packaging.
Warranty: Always ask for a warranty or receipt when purchasing electronics.
Product Quality: Ensure the product quality meets your expectations before making a purchase.