Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Biên Hòa, Vietnam

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by agreeing on the price before starting your journey.

Price Negotiation: Agreeing on a fair price before you start your ride.
Legitimate Taxi Companies: Choosing taxis from reputable companies with clear logos and meters.
Avoid Late-night Journeys: Opt for daytime travels to avoid potential scams.

Beware of counterfeit goods at local markets. Authenticity checks are essential.

Authenticity Check: Verify the authenticity of items with sellers or experts.
Reputable Shops: Purchase from reputable shops for better assurance.
Brand Awareness: Know the characteristics and packaging of genuine brands.

Ensure street food is fresh and properly cooked to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Fresh Ingredients: Look for vendors who use fresh ingredients.
Clean Preparation Area: Choose vendors with clean, sanitized food preparation areas.
Busy Stalls: Opt for busy street food stalls as they often have faster turnover.

Use ATMs in banks or secure areas to avoid skimming and card trapping scams.

Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, busy areas.
Monitor Your Transaction: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and monitor your transaction closely.
Check Your Account Regularly: Regularly check your account transactions for any unauthorized activity.

Always use licensed exchange centers for the best rates and to avoid counterfeit notes.

Licensed Centers: Exchange your currency at licensed centers with clear signage.
Compare Rates: Shop around for the best exchange rates before making a decision.
Inspect Money Carefully: Thoroughly inspect exchanged notes for any irregularities or defects.

Research and book tours through reputable agencies to avoid guide scams.

Reputable Agencies: Book tours with established, well-reviewed travel agencies.
Fixed Rates and Itineraries: Confirm the tour's price and itinerary beforehand to avoid overcharging.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Avoid guides who approach you on the street, as they may be unlicensed.

Identify genuine police officers by their uniform and badge. Call local authorities to confirm if in doubt.

Uniform and Badge: Genuine officers will have a visible uniform with an identification badge.
Confirm with Local Authorities: Contact local authorities if you suspect someone posing as police.
Avoid Isolated Locations: Avoid being lured into isolated locations by strangers claiming to be police officers.

Request itemized bills and negotiate prices before ordering to avoid overcharges.

Itemized Bills: Ask for an itemized bill to ensure you are only paying for what you ordered.
Negotiate Prices: Discuss and agree on prices before ordering to avoid unexpected charges.
Review Menus Thoroughly: Inspect menus carefully for item costs, specials, and hidden fees.

Research accommodations online, compare prices, and book in advance to avoid overpaying.

Online Research: Use travel websites to find, compare, and book accommodations.
Advance Bookings: Book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Avoid accommodations offered by street vendors, as they may overcharge.

Research legitimate charities and donate through official channels to avoid scams.

Official Channels: Donate directly through the charity's official website or office.
Verification: Check if a charity is recognized and registered with local authorities.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Avoid donating to street solicitors, as they may not be legitimate.

Be cautious when donating to street performers and verify their talents.

Talent Verification: Watch the performance before donating to ensure it's skillful.
Genuine Performers: Choose performers who have proper permits and registration.
Fair Donations: Donate reasonable amounts based on the quality of the performance.

Avoid buying pets from street vendors or strangers, and verify health certificates.

Reputable Pet Shops: Purchase pets from licensed pet shops with good reviews.
Health Certificates: Request health certificates and vaccination records for the pet.
Spay or Neuter: Ensure the pet has been spayed or neutered to prevent overpopulation.

Avoid buying drinks from strangers, and stick with established bars for safety.

Established Bars: Choose well-known, busy bars with clear signage.
Avoid Drinks from Strangers: Never accept drinks from strangers to avoid drugging incidents.
Check Prices in Advance: Ask for drink prices before ordering to avoid being overcharged.

Purchase souvenirs from reputable shops or directly from artisans to avoid fake goods.

Reputable Shops: Choose well-reviewed, licensed souvenir shops.
Artisan Direct Sales: Purchase directly from local artisans when possible.
Know the Authentic Quality: Research the characteristics of authentic souvenirs before purchasing.

Secure your bicycle with a strong lock and avoid leaving it unattended in busy areas.

Sturdy Lock: Use a heavy-duty lock to secure your bicycle.
Choose Safe Locations: Park your bike in well-lit, busy areas with CCTV surveillance.
Record Serial Number: Keep a record of your bicycle's serial number for easy identification.