Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Bibā, Banī Suwayf, Egypt

All Topics about Bibā All Cities in Egypt

1. Grand Mosque of Bibā Scam Alert

Avoid false guides offering tours; always confirm authenticity with the mosque's official authorities.

Official Guides: Only accept guided tours from authorized personnel.
Mosque's Official Authority: Confirm the guide's affiliation with the mosque before accepting services.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Never accept unsolicited offers, especially in touristy areas.

Avoid unlicensed money changers; always use established exchange offices.

Licensed Money Changers: Only exchange currency at licensed establishments.
Check Exchange Rates: Always compare the offered rate with reliable sources to avoid being overcharged.
Secure Transaction: Ensure transactions are conducted in a secure and busy environment.

Avoid taxis without a meter; always use licensed cabs or ride-hailing services.

Licensed Taxis: Only take licensed taxis or use reputable ride-hailing apps.
Metered Taxis: Ensure the taxi has a working meter and insist its usage.
Negotiate Fixed Price: If no meter, negotiate a fixed price before starting the journey.

Avoid overpriced souvenirs; shop around for reasonable prices.

Reasonable Prices: Compare prices of similar items in different shops to find the best deal.
Haggle: Always negotiate prices for better deals, but be mindful of fair values.
Avoid Pressure Sales Tactics: Ignore aggressive sales tactics and take your time to make a decision.

Avoid restaurants offering 'free' extras; confirm prices before ordering.

Price Check: Always ask for the menu and check prices before placing an order.
Avoid 'Free' Extras: Be wary of restaurants offering 'free' extras; they often have hidden costs.
Check Reviews: Research and read reviews of restaurants before dining to ensure quality and fair pricing.

Avoid unsolicited guide offers; book guides through reputable tour operators.

Reputable Tour Operators: Book guided tours through established and reputable tour companies.
Check Credentials: Verify the guide's credentials and ask for references.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Never accept unsolicited offers, especially in touristy areas.

Avoid buying counterfeit goods; only purchase from licensed vendors.

Licensed Vendors: Only buy from licensed stores and market stalls.
Check for Quality: Inspect the merchandise carefully before purchasing to ensure its quality.
Avoid Overpriced Items: Be cautious of overpriced items, as they may be counterfeit or low quality.

Avoid buying tickets from unauthorized vendors; purchase tickets at the museum entrance.

Museum Entrance Tickets: Purchase tickets directly at the museum entrance.
Check Official Museum Websites: Research the museum's official website for information about tickets and prices.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Never accept unsolicited offers, especially in touristy areas.

Avoid bus stations with no clear signage; always choose established and reputable companies.

Established Companies: Choose well-known, reputable bus companies.
Check for Signage: Look for clear signage indicating a legitimate and safe station.
Ask for Assistance: Ask locals or the hotel staff for help in choosing a reliable bus company.

Avoid hotels with no online presence; always book through reputable channels.

Reputable Booking Channels: Book hotels through established and reputable booking websites.
Check Online Reviews: Research and read reviews of hotels before booking to ensure quality and safety.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Never accept unsolicited offers, especially in touristy areas.

Avoid ATMs with no proper signage; use ATMs located within banks or reputable businesses.

ATMs Located Within Banks/Businesses: Use ATMs that are situated inside banks or well-established businesses.
Check for Proper Signage: Look for proper signage indicating a legitimate and safe machine.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account balance and transactions to ensure all is correct.

Avoid rental companies with no online presence; always book through reputable channels.

Reputable Booking Channels: Book car rentals through established and reputable booking websites.
Check Online Reviews: Research and read reviews of rental companies before booking to ensure quality and reliability.
Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the rented vehicle for any damages before leaving the lot.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities; use a VPN if necessary.

VPN Usage: Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
Avoid Sensitive Activities: Avoid conducting sensitive activities, such as banking or emailing, on public Wi-Fi.
Secure Passwords: Always use strong and unique passwords for online accounts.

Avoid buying cursed artifacts; they are not genuine and can lead to trouble.

Legitimate Artifacts: Only purchase authentic, legally obtained artifacts.
Avoid Cursed Items: Be cautious of items labeled as cursed; they are often fraudulent.
Reputable Vendors: Purchase artifacts from reputable vendors and museums.

Avoid donating to persistent street performers; only give if you choose.

Choose to Donate: Decide for yourself whether or not to donate, and when.
Persistent Solicitation: Be wary of persistent solicitations, as they can create pressure to give.
Support Local Culture: If you choose to donate, consider supporting local culture and artists.