Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Brooklyn, United States
1. Subway Time-Share Scam
A common scam involves offering 'exclusive' time-shares in luxury Brooklyn apartments on the subway. Avoid by ignoring anyone who tries to engage you about this.
- Unsolicited Offer: The offer is usually unsolicited and comes from strangers.
- High-Pressure Tactics: Scammers use high-pressure tactics to get your personal information quickly.
- False Promises: Promises are often false or misleading, with the intention of separating you from your money.
2. ATM Skimming Scam
Skimming devices are installed on some ATMs to steal card information. Use only well-lit, indoor ATMs at banks or in busy locations.
- Unsafe ATM Locations: Scammers often target poorly lit or secluded ATMs.
- Skimming Device: A skimming device is placed over the card slot to read your information.
- Cameras or Keypad Overlays: Scammers may also place cameras or keypad overlays to capture your PIN.
3. Fake Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed tour guides approach tourists offering services. Stick with licensed guides from reputable companies to ensure a legitimate experience.
- No License: The scammer is not a licensed guide, which means they may not provide accurate or safe information.
- High Prices: Prices for their services are often significantly higher than those of legitimate guides.
- Pushy Tactics: Scammers may use pushy or aggressive tactics to get you to agree to their services.
4. Pickpocketing in Crowds
Pickpockets operate in crowded areas like the Brooklyn Bridge or Coney Island. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying them openly.
- Crowded Locations: Scammers target locations with large crowds to blend in.
- Distraction Tactics: They may use distractions like bumping into you or dropping objects to gain access to your belongings.
- Valuables on Display: Avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce the chance of theft.
5. Counterfeit Goods Market
Vendors in some markets sell counterfeit goods. Only purchase items from reputable stores or official souvenir shops.
- Low Prices: Counterfeit goods are often significantly cheaper than legitimate ones.
- Poor Quality: The quality of counterfeit goods is usually poor and may not last long.
- Legal Consequences: Buying counterfeit goods can lead to legal consequences in some cases.
6. Brogans Row Street Scam
Street performers demand payment for a photo or video on Brogans Row. Be aware that payment is optional and you are not obligated to pay.
- Performances on Demand: The performance is often given only after payment, making it seem like a tip or donation.
- Misleading Language: Scammers may use misleading language to make you believe payment is required.
- Optional Payment: Payment for performances should always be considered optional, not mandatory.
7. Car Service Overcharging
Some taxi and car service drivers may overcharge tourists. Use official taxis or app-based services and agree on a price before starting the journey.
- Official Taxis or Apps: Stick to official taxis or car services booked through reputable apps.
- Price Agreement: Always agree on a price before starting the journey to avoid unexpected charges.
- Unfair Pricing: Overcharging is not uncommon in unofficial taxis or services.
8. Fraudulent Wifi Hotspots
Public wifi hotspots may be fraudulent and used to steal your data. Avoid logging in to sensitive accounts or making transactions over public wifi.
- Data Theft: Scammers can access your data when you connect to their hotspot.
- Malware Infection: Your device may become infected with malware when connecting to a fraudulent hotspot.
- Public Wifi Limitations: Public wifi should never be used for sensitive activities like online banking.
9. Fishing Scam at Bar
Bartenders or strangers buy drinks for you with the expectation of a large tip. Be cautious and only engage in friendly interactions.
- Expected Tip: The scammer expects a large tip after buying your drink.
- Pressure to Drink: There may be pressure to drink more than you intended, which can lead to excessive spending.
- Friendly Interactions: Maintain friendly but cautious interactions with strangers offering drinks.
10. Ferry Ticket Reselling Scam
Tickets for popular ferries may be resold at inflated prices. Purchase tickets from official vendors or reputable tour operators.
- Inflated Prices: Resold tickets are often significantly more expensive than the original price.
- Counterfeit Tickets: Resold tickets may be counterfeit, leaving you stranded.
- Official Vendors or Tour Operators: Always purchase tickets from official vendors or reputable tour operators.
11. Graffiti Art Scam
Artists may approach you to create a custom graffiti artwork on the spot. Be wary as this can lead to aggressive demands for payment.
- Unexpected Demands: The artist may demand an unexpectedly large amount of money after completing the artwork.
- Pressure to Pay: There may be pressure to pay quickly or face negative consequences.
- Beware of Strangers: Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited artwork, especially in tourist areas.
12. Staged Car Accident Scam
Scammers may intentionally cause a car accident and blame you to extort money. Always drive carefully and be aware of your surroundings.
- Intentional Collision: The collision is intentional, designed to make you believe it was an accident.
- Extortion Attempt: Scammers may attempt to extort money from you by claiming damages or injuries.
- Avoid Confrontation: Do not confront the scammer and instead move to a safe location to call the police.
13. Counterfeit Money Scam
Counterfeit money is sometimes passed off as legitimate. Always check your bills carefully and use ATMs at banks for larger amounts.
- Check Bills Carefully: Always examine your bills carefully to ensure they are genuine.
- ATMs at Banks: Use ATMs located at banks for larger transactions to reduce the risk of receiving counterfeit money.
- Report Suspicious Money: Report any suspicious bills to local authorities.
14. Fraudulent Charity Collections
Fake charity collectors may solicit donations. Verify the legitimacy of charities before donating.
- Verify Legitimacy: Always verify the legitimacy of charities before donating.
- Official Documentation: Legitimate charities will provide official documentation for their collections.
- Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: Do not be swayed by high-pressure tactics or emotional appeals. Take time to research the charity before donating.
15. Overpriced Items at Markets
Some vendors in markets may overprice items for tourists. Research prices online or negotiate with vendors to get a fair price.
- Research Prices: Research prices of common items online before visiting the market.
- Negotiation Skills: Develop your negotiation skills to get a fair price for items.
- Avoid Overpriced Items: If an item's price seems too high, consider it may be overpriced and move on.