Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Andijon, Andijon, Uzbekistan
1. Taxi Scams
Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Avoid by using regulated taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- Regulation: Check for taxi regulation badges.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Use trusted apps like Yandex.Taxi or Grab.
- Fixed Rates: Ask for a fixed rate before starting the journey.
2. Currency Exchange Scams
Some exchange offices may offer unfavorable rates. Use official banks or reputed exchange booths.
- Official Bank: Exchange at authorized banks.
- Reputable Exchange Booths: Choose booths that display their license number.
- Compare Rates: Compare rates among different exchange booths.
3. Souvenir Shop Scams
Overpriced or poor quality souvenirs. Research shops beforehand and negotiate prices.
- Research Shops: Ask locals for recommended shops.
- Negotiate Prices: Bargain and agree on a fair price.
- Check Quality: Inspect items before purchasing.
4. Street Food Scams
Contaminated or low-quality street food. Stick to busy and popular food stalls.
- Busy Stalls: Choose stalls with a lot of customers.
- Fresh Ingredients: Look for stalls that use fresh ingredients.
- Cleanliness: Check the cleanliness of the stall and food preparation area.
5. Fake Tour Guide Scams
Unlicensed tour guides may offer low prices but lead to scams. Use registered tour agencies or ask hotel staff.
- Registered Agency: Book tours with licensed agencies.
- Hotel Staff Recommendation: Ask hotel staff for reliable tour guide recommendations.
- Check Credentials: Check the guide's ID or license before starting the tour.
6. ATM Scams
Skimming devices attached to ATMs. Use ATMs located in secure areas like banks.
- Secure Locations: Choose ATMs in secure and well-lit areas.
- Check for Devices: Inspect the machine for any unusual parts or tampering.
- Cover Screen: Cover your hand while entering PIN to prevent keylogging.
7. Festival Scams
Overcrowded festivals may lead to pickpocketing. Keep valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings.
- Valuable Storage: Use a secure hotel locker or rent a personal safe.
- Awareness: Stay alert and be mindful of your belongings.
- Trusted Companions: Travel with a trusted companion or in groups.
8. Market Scams
Vendors may try to sell low-quality or overpriced goods. Research items beforehand and negotiate prices.
- Research Items: Know the typical price of the item.
- Negotiate Prices: Bargain and agree on a fair price.
- Check Quality: Inspect items before purchasing.
9. Public Transport Scams
Tickets may be overpriced or not valid. Purchase tickets from authorized vendors.
- Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets at official ticket windows.
- Valid Tickets: Check that the ticket has a valid date and time.
- Ask for Help: Ask station staff if unsure about tickets or routes.
10. Sim Card Scams
Sim cards may be sold without proper activation or service. Buy from authorized vendors or your hotel.
- Authorized Vendors: Purchase sim cards at phone stores or airports.
- Hotel Provided Sim Cards: Ask your hotel for provided sim cards.
- Activation Confirmation: Confirm activation with the vendor or service provider.
11. Restaurant Scams
Hidden charges or poor quality food. Research restaurants beforehand and ask for item prices.
- Research Restaurants: Check online reviews before dining out.
- Ask for Prices: Ask for prices before ordering to avoid hidden charges.
- Check Food Quality: Ask locals for recommended restaurants.
12. Friendly Locals Scams
Locals may offer help but lead to scams. Be cautious and verify information before acting.
- Verify Information: Check the information with other reliable sources.
- Ask for Identification: Ask for identification if you suspect something is wrong.
- Trusted Sources: Use trusted sources like hotel staff or travel guides for help.
13. Accommodation Scams
Overpriced or low-quality accommodations. Research hotels beforehand and check reviews.
- Research Hotels: Check online reviews and compare prices.
- Check Reviews: Look for hotels with positive reviews.
- Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices if possible to get a better deal.
14. Tourist Police Scams
Fraudulent tourist police may ask for money or personal information. Contact the real Tourist Police if needed.
- Real Tourist Police: Contact the official Andijon Tourist Police.
- Identification Check: Ask for identification and verify with the real Tourist Police.
- No Payments Required: Tourist police should not ask for money or personal information.
15. Local Festivals Scams
Fake festival tickets or overpriced souvenirs. Research the event beforehand and be cautious.
- Event Research: Check the official website of the event.
- Official Tickets: Buy tickets from authorized vendors or at the event entrance.
- Negotiate Souvenir Prices: Negotiate souvenir prices and check quality before purchasing.