Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Aurangābād, India

1. Auto-rickshaw Scam

Fraudulent drivers overcharge tourists. They might refuse to use the meter or quote an inflated fare.

Unlicensed guides charge inflated fees or take tourists to overpriced shops. They may claim to be official guides.

Licensed Guides: Verify the guide's license issued by the Tourism Department.
Fixed Fees: Negotiate fixed fees for guided tours before starting.
Avoid Shops: Decline any unplanned stops at shops or markets.

Sellers offer fake tickets for monuments at a lower price.

Official Outlets: Buy tickets only from authorized outlets.
Verification: Check for holograms, watermarks, and security features on the ticket.
Opening Hours: Ensure you are buying tickets for the correct day and time.

Drivers collude with shopkeepers to take tourists to overpriced stores.

Avoid Shop Stops: Decline any unplanned stops at shops or markets.
Negotiation: Negotiate fares for transportation before starting the journey.
Recognize Collusion: Be aware that some drivers and shopkeepers may work together.

Restaurants near tourist spots charge exorbitant prices for food and drinks.

Avoid Tourist Areas: Eat at local eateries away from main tourist attractions.
Negotiation: Negotiate prices before ordering in local restaurants.
Street Food: Try safe and affordable street food options.

Unscrupulous shopkeepers sell faulty SIM cards or overcharge for them.

Authorized Shops: Buy SIM cards only from authorized mobile network stores.
Check SIM Card: Activate the SIM card and check if it works before leaving the store.
Negotiation: Negotiate prices for SIM cards based on data package and validity.

Unscrupulous money exchangers offer lower rates or charge additional fees.

Authorized Exchanges: Exchange currency only at authorized banks and exchange booths.
Check Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates with other exchanges before making a transaction.
Check for Hidden Fees: Ensure that no hidden fees are charged when exchanging currency.

Tourists may be falsely accused of damaging rental properties.

Document Everything: Take photos and videos upon arrival to document the property's condition.
Honest Communication: Communicate honestly with rental owners about any damage or issues.
Avoid Verbal Agreements: Get everything in writing before signing the rental agreement.

Pickpocketing and theft can occur during crowded public transportation.

Keep Valuables Safe: Store valuable items securely in a bag or pocket that is difficult to access.
Avoid Distractions: Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions while traveling.
Travel Light: Carry only essential items, as having less can minimize the potential for theft.

Fraudulent taxi services may overcharge tourists or take them to undesirable locations.

Registered Taxis: Only use registered taxis from recognized stands.
Negotiation: Negotiate fares before starting the journey.
Check Fare Meters: Ensure taxis have a functioning fare meter and insist on using it.

Hotels may overbook rooms, leaving tourists without accommodations.

Advance Bookings: Book hotels in advance to avoid the risk of overbooking.
Read Reviews: Read hotel reviews and choose reputable accommodations.
Contact Hotel Directly: Contact the hotel directly to confirm your reservation before arrival.

False charity collectors may approach tourists requesting donations.

Official Charities: Donate to recognized and registered charitable organizations.
Ask for Proof: Request proof of the collector's affiliation with a legitimate charity.
Donate Wisely: Research and donate to charities that have a positive impact in the community.

Vendors may sell counterfeit goods at tourist spots.

Avoid Tourist Areas: Shop for souvenirs away from main tourist attractions.
Check Quality: Inspect items carefully before purchasing to check quality.
Haggle Wisely: Negotiate prices based on the item's actual value, not just its perceived worth.

Criminals may use skimming devices on ATMs to steal card information.

Secure ATMs: Use secure, well-lit ATMs and avoid those that look tampered with.
Cover Inputs: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
Monitor Account: Regularly monitor account transactions for any unusual activity.

During local festivals, some vendors may take advantage of tourists.

Stick to Known Areas: Stay within well-known tourist areas during festivals.
Haggle Wisely: Negotiate prices based on the item's actual value, not just its perceived worth.
Check for Authenticity: Verify the authenticity of festival-related items before purchasing.