Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Bijie, Guizhou, China

All Topics about Bijie All Cities in China

1. Taxi Scams

Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Avoid this by agreeing on the fare before starting the journey.

Agreement on Fare: Prevent overcharging by agreeing on a price before starting the journey.
Meter Usage: Insist on using the meter to ensure fair pricing.
Licensed Taxis: Use licensed taxis with visible city stickers for safety and legitimacy.

Some markets sell counterfeit goods as authentic. Verify purchases with receipts or by checking the quality.

Check Quality: Inspect the quality of the items to identify any discrepancies.
Ask for Receipts: Request receipts and verify their legitimacy before making a purchase.
Know the Markets: Research authentic markets to minimize the risk of buying counterfeit goods.

Unauthorized money exchangers may offer lower exchange rates. Stick to banks or licensed exchange centers.

Licensed Exchange Centers: Use banks and licensed exchange centers for safe and fair exchange.
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates among different providers before making a decision.
Secure Transactions: Ensure the transaction is secure by using ATMs in well-lit, safe areas.

Some tour guides may overcharge or lead you to unauthorized shops. Research and book tours through reputable providers.

Reputable Providers: Choose tour operators with positive reviews, licenses, and clear business practices.
Check Itineraries: Confirm the itinerary in advance to avoid unexpected stops at unauthorized shops.
Negotiate Fees: Negotiate tour fees upfront and confirm any additional costs before booking.

Some internet cafés may install keyloggers to steal personal information. Use secure connections or trusted devices.

Secure Connections: Use a VPN or secure connection when accessing sensitive accounts.
Trusted Devices: Bring your own device for personal data protection and increased security.
Check for Keyloggers: Look for signs of keylogging software such as unusual slowdowns or unexpected pop-ups.

Some accommodations may be subpar or overpriced. Verify the accommodation's legitimacy and quality before booking.

Verification of Accommodation: Check reviews, ratings, and pictures to ensure the accommodation is as advertised.
Booking Platforms: Use reputable booking platforms for secure transactions and customer protection.
On-site Inspection: Inspect the accommodation upon arrival to ensure it meets your expectations.

Some street food vendors may use unsafe ingredients. Stick to established restaurants or cooked-to-order street food.

Established Restaurants: Choose well-known, busy restaurants with good hygiene practices.
Cooked-to-order Street Food: Opt for food that is cooked in front of you to minimize the risk of contamination.
Avoid Suspicious Vendors: Avoid vendors with poor hygiene, large amounts of flies, or questionable ingredients.

Some bars and clubs may overcharge for drinks or watered-down alcohol. Check prices before ordering and stick to established establishments.

Check Prices: Ask for price lists or check the menu before ordering to avoid unexpected costs.
Established Establishments: Choose popular, well-reviewed bars and clubs for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Avoid Unattended Drinks: Never leave your drink unattended to prevent tampering or dilution.

Some public transportation drivers may ask for inflated fares. Ensure you have the correct fare before boarding.

Correct Fare: Research the correct fare for your journey and carry small bills.
Licensed Drivers: Look for visible city stickers, uniforms, or other indicators of a licensed driver.
Avoid Overcrowded Vehicles: Stay away from overcrowded vehicles that may be more likely to ask for inflated fares.

Friendly locals or tourists might offer help but lead you into scams. Be wary of unsolicited offers and maintain a safe distance.

Avoid Unsolicited Offers: Decline help from strangers, especially if it seems too good to be true.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a reasonable distance from strangers and avoid isolated areas for safety reasons.
Travel in Groups: Travel with friends or family to minimize the risk of falling victim to friendly scams.

Some ATMs may have skimmers or cameras installed. Use well-lit, secure locations and protect your PIN.

Secure Locations: Choose ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas for increased security.
Protect your PIN: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent others from seeing it.
Check for Skimmers: Inspect the ATM for unusual devices or irregularities before using it.

Free public Wi-Fi may have security vulnerabilities. Use a VPN or avoid sensitive transactions.

Use a VPN: Connect to the internet using a VPN to encrypt your data and protect your privacy.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Postpone sensitive transactions until you have access to a secure connection.
Check Wi-Fi Names: Verify that the network name matches the establishment's official name before connecting.

Crowded areas and tourist spots can attract pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and aware of your surroundings.

Keep Belongings Secure: Use a travel wallet or cross-body bag to keep valuables close and hard to steal.
Awareness of Surroundings: Stay alert and avoid distractions, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
Secure Accommodation Storage: Use the hotel's safe or secure storage to keep valuables during non-travel hours.

Unscrupulous vendors may sell you an inactive or overpriced SIM card. Research providers and compare prices.

Research Providers: Choose established, reputable mobile network operators for a reliable service.
Compare Prices: Shop around for the best deal on SIM cards and data packages.
Check Activation Status: Verify that the SIM card is active before leaving the shop.

Counterfeit or overpriced tickets may be sold for attractions and events. Verify ticket legitimacy and compare prices.

Verify Ticket Legitimacy: Check the ticket for authenticity before purchasing or entering an attraction.
Compare Prices: Research ticket prices for attractions and events in advance to avoid overpaying.
Buy Tickets at Official Outlets: Purchase tickets directly from official outlets or authorized vendors to ensure authenticity.