Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Boise, Idaho, United States
1. Capital City Public Market Scam
Beware of overpriced or counterfeit goods at the bustling market. Stick to trusted vendors.
- Trusted Vendors: Vendors with a permanent booth are usually trustworthy.
- Price Check: Always compare prices with other vendors before purchasing.
- Market Information Desk: Ask for advice at the market information desk if unsure.
2. Parking Meters Scam
Someone may tamper with your parking meter or offer to 'help' by paying for it. Park in official lots and pay at the machine.
- Official Lots: Park in designated city parking lots.
- Meter Payment: Always pay at the meter or via mobile app.
- Watchful Eye: Keep an eye on your vehicle and belongings while parking.
3. Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed guides may offer tours. Ensure your guide is registered with the Idaho Office of Tourism.
- Idaho Office of Tourism: Check the Idaho Office of Tourism's website for licensed guides.
- Guide License: Ask to see a guide's license before starting the tour.
- Tour Reviews: Read reviews and check ratings of the guide or tour company online.
4. Food Truck Scam
Some food trucks may serve undercooked or contaminated food. Stick to popular, well-rated trucks.
- Popular Food Trucks: Look for trucks that are frequently busy.
- Health Inspections: Check if the truck has passed recent health inspections.
- Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and check ratings of the food truck online.
5. Taxi Scam
Some taxi services may overcharge or take a longer route. Use reputable companies like Yellow Cab or Uber.
- Reputable Companies: Choose taxis from reputable companies such as Yellow Cab or Uber.
- Fare Estimates: Use fare estimates provided by the taxi company before your ride.
- In-App Payment: Pay via the taxi app to avoid cash disputes.
6. ATM Scam
Some ATMs may skim your card information. Use ATMs in banks or reputable locations.
- Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks for safety.
- Secure Location: Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas.
- Card Monitoring: Monitor your account for unauthorized transactions.
7. Fake Ticket Scam
Counterfeit tickets may be sold for events at venues like the Idaho Center. Buy from authorized ticket vendors only.
- Authorized Vendors: Purchase tickets from authorized vendors such as Ticketmaster or venue box office.
- Event Website: Check the event website for information on ticket sales.
- Ticket Scanner: Counterfeit tickets may not scan properly. Check with venue staff if needed.
8. Airbnb Rental Scam
Rentals that seem too good to be true often are. Verify listings and landlords thoroughly.
- Verified Listing: Check for verified listings and positive reviews.
- Contact Landlord: Contact the landlord to verify details before booking.
- Secure Payment: Use Airbnb's secure payment system to protect your funds.
9. Pedicab Scam
Some pedicabs may overcharge or take a longer route. Agree on a fare before starting the ride.
- Agreed Fare: Ask for and agree on the fare before boarding the pedicab.
- Reputable Companies: Choose pedicabs from reputable companies.
- In-App Payment: Pay via the pedicab company's app to avoid cash disputes.
10. Boise State University Scam
Scammers may pose as students or staff to solicit money. Avoid giving personal information or money to strangers.
- University Staff: Bronco IDs and uniformed security personnel are genuine BSU staff.
- Campus Map: Use the campus map to identify official buildings.
- University Information: Call BSU's information desk for confirmation if unsure.
11. Boise River Greenbelt Scam
Scammers may approach cyclists or walkers for fake charity donations. Ignore unsolicited approaches and donate to reputable charities.
- Reputable Charities: Donate to charities you know and trust.
- Greenbelt Map: Use the Greenbelt map to avoid isolated areas.
- Safety in Numbers: Stay with a group or stick to well-populated areas.
12. Zoo Boise Scam
Counterfeit tickets may be sold for the zoo. Buy from authorized ticket vendors only.
- Authorized Vendors: Purchase tickets from authorized vendors such as the zoo's official website or box office.
- Event Website: Check the zoo's website for information on ticket sales.
- Ticket Scanner: Counterfeit tickets may not scan properly. Check with zoo staff if needed.
13. Julia Davis Park Scam
Scammers may approach picnickers or park visitors for fake charity donations. Ignore unsolicited approaches and donate to reputable charities.
- Reputable Charities: Donate to charities you know and trust.
- Park Map: Use the park map to avoid isolated areas.
- Safety in Numbers: Stay with a group or stick to well-populated areas.
14. Boise Art Museum Scam
Counterfeit tickets may be sold for the museum. Buy from authorized ticket vendors only.
- Authorized Vendors: Purchase tickets from authorized vendors such as the museum's official website or box office.
- Event Website: Check the museum's website for information on ticket sales.
- Ticket Scanner: Counterfeit tickets may not scan properly. Check with museum staff if needed.
15. Boise River Rafting Scam
Unlicensed operators may offer rafting trips. Ensure your operator is registered with the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board.
- Idaho Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board: Check the Idaho Outfitters and Guides Licensing Board's website for licensed operators.
- License Check: Ask to see a guide's license before embarking on the trip.
- Safety Gear: Check for required safety gear such as life jackets and helmets.