Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Beian, Heilongjiang, China

1. Street Food Scam

Overpriced or contaminated street food offered to unsuspecting tourists, often near popular attractions.

Price Discrepancy: Be wary of drastic price differences compared to local prices.
Unsanitary Conditions: Ensure food is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment.
Location: Avoid food from vendors near tourist hotspots if possible.

Dishonest taxi drivers may use circuitous routes or overcharge unsuspecting tourists.

Fixed Prices: Ask for a fixed price before starting the journey.
Meter Use: Ensure the taxi driver uses the meter to calculate the fare.
Legitimate Taxis: Only use licensed and registered taxis, preferably from reputable companies.

Unauthorized markets selling counterfeit goods at low prices to lure tourists.

Brand Authenticity: Inspect for inconsistencies in branding and packaging.
Price Too Good to be True: If the price seems too low, it's likely a counterfeit item.
Location: Avoid markets away from tourist hotspots that may be selling counterfeits.

Thieves targeting tourists in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions.

Crowded Areas: Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially in busy locations.
Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items hidden and secure at all times.
Beware of Distractions: Be vigilant for distraction tactics, such as someone bumping into you intentionally.

Fraudulent hotel bookings, where the hotel does not exist or is significantly below standard.

Reputation Check: Book hotels from reputable sources and verify their reviews.
Location Confirmation: Double-check the hotel's location before making a booking.
Payment Security: Use secure payment methods, and never share sensitive information unnecessarily.

Counterfeit tickets sold for popular attractions, resulting in denial of entry.

Official Outlets: Purchase tickets from official outlets or authorized resellers.
Ticket Inspection: Ensure the ticket has all necessary details and holograms.
Online Booking Confirmation: Book tickets online, and have a confirmation email or printed ticket ready.

Locals pretending to be friendly, offering help or inviting you to their home for a meal, but expecting payment or theft.

Ask Locals for Help: Turn to reputable sources, such as hotel staff, for assistance.
Invitations Verification: Verify the authenticity of invitations and their intentions before accepting.
Mind Your Valuables: Keep your belongings secure, especially during interactions with strangers.

Merchants using deceptive bargaining tactics to overcharge tourists.

Know the Base Price: Research local prices for items before negotiating.
Negotiate Fairly: Negotiate firmly but reasonably, and know your maximum price.
Walk Away if Necessary: If the price is unreasonable, consider walking away and finding a different vendor.

Fraudsters installing skimmers on ATMs to steal card information.

Secure ATMs: Use well-lit, secure ATMs in reputable locations.
Card Protection: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.

Computers in internet cafés infected with keyloggers to steal personal information.

Secure Computers: Use secure computers or bring a travel-sized USB keyboard for added security.
Update Antivirus Software: Regularly update your antivirus software and scan your computer before using the internet café.
Avoid Financial Transactions: Avoid online banking or other sensitive transactions on shared computers.

Photographers offering to take your picture but using hidden cameras to capture personal information.

Check for Cameras: Inspect the camera and ensure it has no hidden components.
Ask Permission: Ask photographers for permission before allowing them to take your picture.
Be Mindful of Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious when being photographed in unfamiliar areas.

Leveraging the language barrier to trick tourists into overpaying or agreeing to unfavorable terms.

Translation Tools: Use translation tools or carry a phrasebook for better communication.
Verify Prices and Agreements: Double-check all prices, agreements, and contracts before signing anything.
Reputable Sources: Seek help from reputable sources, such as your hotel or embassy, if needed.

Individuals pretending to be in need and asking for money, only to disappear afterwards.

Genuine Needs: Provide help when necessary, but be cautious and discerning.
Safety First: Avoid isolated or dimly lit areas where it might not be safe to give money.
Alternative Help: Consider donating to reputable charities instead of giving money directly.

Fraudulent transportation services offering overpriced rides or taking longer routes.

Fixed Prices: Ask for a fixed price before starting the journey.
Meter Use: Ensure the driver uses the meter to calculate the fare.
Legitimate Transportation: Only use licensed and registered transportation, preferably from reputable companies.

Dishonest money changers offering unfavorable exchange rates or exchanging less than agreed.

Reputable Money Changers: Use reputable money changers, preferably in busy and well-known areas.
Compare Rates: Compare exchange rates with other money changers to ensure fairness.
Count the Money: Count your changed money carefully and check for any discrepancies.