Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Baicheng, China

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overcharging and illegal routes by always using a licensed taxi or ride-hailing service. Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Licensed Taxis: Official taxis have identification clearly displayed.
Ride-Hailing Apps: App-based ride services are a safe and reliable alternative.
Fare Agreement: Always discuss and confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Be cautious when shopping for souvenirs at unregulated markets; they may contain counterfeit or low-quality items.

Regulated Markets: Purchase goods from authorized stores to ensure authenticity.
Brand Labels: Check for missing or incorrect brand labels on products.
Price Comparison: Compare prices of similar items at various locations to avoid overpaying.

Ensure street food is freshly cooked and properly handled to avoid foodborne illnesses or contamination.

Vendor Reputation: Choose popular, busy vendors with good reviews.
Freshly Cooked: Look for food being prepared in front of you.
Cleanliness and Hygiene: Assess the cleanliness of the food preparation area before purchasing.

Exchange money at authorized banks or exchange centers to avoid counterfeit currency and unfavorable rates.

Authorized Banks: Use established banks for currency exchange.
Exchange Rates: Compare rates between different exchange centers before choosing one.
Counterfeit Detection: Learn to identify counterfeit bills and notes.

Book accommodation through reputable platforms or hotels directly to avoid scams and ensure a safe stay.

Reputable Platforms: Choose accommodation from established booking sites.
Direct Booking: Book accommodation directly through the hotel's official website.
Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews and ratings for the accommodation before booking.

Be wary of unsolicited offers from tour guides, as they may charge inflated prices or lead you to scam attractions.

Licensed Guides: Book tours through licensed guide services.
Tour Group Size: Choose tours with larger group sizes to avoid being overcharged.
Prearranged Tours: Plan your tours in advance through reputable travel agencies.

Purchase sim cards from authorized retailers to avoid data theft and fraud.

Authorized Retailers: Buy sim cards only from official carrier stores.
Data Plan: Choose a data plan that suits your needs and budget.
Warranty and Support: Ensure the retailer offers warranty and customer support for the sim card.

Use well-lit, secure ATMs at banks or shopping centers to avoid skimming and other forms of fraud.

Well-Lit Areas: Avoid using ATMs in dimly lit or isolated areas.
Secure Machines: Check for any signs of tampering or suspicious devices on the ATM.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account activity to detect any unauthorized transactions.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities like online banking or shopping to prevent data theft.

Secure VPN: Use a secure VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
Private Browsing: Use private browsing mode on your device to protect your data.
Public Wi-Fi Use Limits: Limit sensitive activities when using public Wi-Fi networks.

Stay aware of your surroundings and keep belongings close to prevent pickpocketing. Use anti-theft bags or waist pouches.

Awareness: Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Secure Belongings: Keep your belongings secure and close to your body.
Anti-Theft Gear: Use anti-theft bags or waist pouches to protect valuables.

Buy tickets from authorized outlets to avoid ticket scams and ensure entry to attractions.

Authorized Outlets: Purchase tickets directly from the attraction or official ticket offices.
Ticket Inspection: Ensure your ticket is inspected before entering attractions.
Review Ticket Prices: Compare ticket prices for the same attraction to avoid overpaying.

Be cautious when giving money to beggars; some may use distractions to steal from you.

Giving Money Safely: Consider donating to reputable charities instead of giving directly to beggars.
Suspicious Behavior: Be aware of beggars using distractions or aggressive tactics.
Staying Vigilant: Keep your belongings secure and stay aware of your surroundings.

Use a translation app or travel with someone who speaks the local language to avoid misunderstandings and potential scams.

Translation Apps: Download a translation app for the local language.
Travel Companion: Travel with someone who speaks the local language.
Clear Communication: Ensure clear communication to avoid misunderstandings and potential scams.

Ask for prices before ordering, settle the bill upfront if possible, or check the menu carefully to avoid overcharging.

Price Disclosure: Always ask for prices before ordering.
Upfront Settlement: Settle the bill upfront if possible to avoid unexpected charges.
Menu Check: Carefully review the menu before ordering to avoid overcharging.

Use official tourist information centers for accurate and reliable information about attractions and services.

Official Information Centers: Visit official tourist information centers for accurate information.
Verified Resources: Use verified resources such as travel guides and reputable websites for information.
Suspicious Behavior: Be aware of suspicious behavior or aggressive selling tactics at non-official centers.