Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Brno, Jihomoravský Kraj, Czechia

All Topics about Brno All Cities in Czechia

1. Taxis from Airport Scam

Unregulated taxi services at Brno-Turany Airport may overcharge or take a longer route. Stick to AAA taxis for official rates.

Overcharging: Taxi drivers may charge higher than the regulated rate.
Unregulated Taxis: Some taxis at the airport may not be officially licensed and registered.
Longer Routes: Taxi drivers might take longer routes to increase the fare.

Counterfeit tickets for popular attractions like Spilberk Castle or St. Peter and Paul Church may be sold. Always buy from official vendors.

Unfavorable exchange rates or additional fees at unofficial currency exchange booths. Use banks or authorized exchange offices.

Unfavorable Rates: Exchange rates may be less favorable than those offered by banks or authorized exchange offices.
Additional Fees: Fees may be added to the exchange rate without disclosure.
Unauthorized Exchange Booths: Some exchange booths may not be officially licensed and registered.

Fraudulent use of credit card information obtained through skimming devices. Monitor your accounts regularly for unauthorized charges.

Skimming Devices: Credit card information is stolen using small electronic devices.
Unauthorized Charges: Fraudulent charges may appear on your credit card statement.
Data Breach: Credit card information may be stolen in a data breach at a business or ATM.

Counterfeit goods are common at Brno's flea markets. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.

Counterfeit Goods: Items may not be genuine, such as branded clothing or electronics.
Poor Quality: Counterfeit items may have poor quality and not function properly.
Legal Issues: Possession of counterfeit goods can result in legal consequences.

Street performers may try to distract you while an accomplice pickpockets. Be aware of your belongings and keep them secure.

Distractions: Performers create distractions to facilitate theft.
Pickpocketing: Accomplices may steal your belongings while you are distracted.
Theft of Valuables: Cash, credit cards, and other valuable items can be stolen.

A friendly local offers to help a lost tourist find their way. They may then ask for payment or lead the tourist to an ATM to withdraw money.

False Assistance: The 'help' is not genuine and is intended to take advantage of the tourist.
Money Requests: The scammer may ask for money for their help or guide services.
ATM Withdrawal Scam: The scammer may lead the tourist to an ATM to withdraw large amounts of cash.

Accommodations advertised online may not meet expectations or have additional fees. Research and book through reputable websites.

Poor Quality: The accommodation may not meet the expected standards.
Additional Fees: Hidden or additional fees may be charged upon arrival.
Fraudulent Listings: The listing may not exist and the tourist may not have a place to stay.

Public WiFi hotspots may require a payment or ask for personal information. Use VPNs to secure your connection.

Payment Requests: The hotspot requires a payment before accessing the internet.
Data Theft: Personal information may be stolen when using the WiFi hotspot.
Malware Infection: Devices may become infected with malware when connecting to an unsecured network.

Some restaurants may overprice meals or add additional charges. Research restaurant prices and compare menus.

Overpricing: Meals may be priced significantly higher than average.
Additional Charges: Additional charges, such as service fees or delivery charges, may be added to the bill.
Low Quality Food: The food quality may not meet expectations.

Unauthorized tour guides may offer discounted or free tours but take you to shops for commission. Book through reputable agencies.

Commission-Based Sales: The guide may take you to shops where they receive a commission.
Discounted Tours: The tour may be discounted or even free but still result in sales pressure.
Low Quality Guides: Tour guides may not have the required knowledge and expertise.

Fake charity collectors may ask for donations. Donate to reputable charities and check their registration status.

Fraudulent Collectors: Collectors may not be affiliated with a legitimate charity.
No Proof of Donation: There may be no proof that the donation will actually reach the intended recipient.
Unnecessary Solicitations: Charity collectors may solicit donations for causes that are not currently in need of assistance.

Counterfeit bus or tram tickets may be sold. Always validate your ticket and check for holograms.

Counterfeit Tickets: Tickets may appear genuine but are invalid.
Unvalidated Tickets: Tickets that have not been validated by the conductor are susceptible to checks and fines.
Fines: Failing to have a valid ticket can result in fines.

Fraudulent parking tickets may be left on your windshield. Ignore and report any suspicious tickets to local authorities.

Counterfeit Tickets: Tickets may appear genuine but are invalid.
Parking Scams: Scammers may create fake parking areas to ticket unsuspecting drivers.
Legal Issues: Failing to pay a legitimate parking fine can result in legal consequences.

Skimming devices may be installed on ATMs to steal your card information. Use ATMs inside banks or other secure locations.

Skimming Devices: Devices are installed to capture your card information.
Card Information Theft: Your card details can be used for fraudulent transactions.
ATM Security: ATMs in less secure locations may be more susceptible to skimming devices.