
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Buenos Aires, Argentina
1. Fake Taxi Meters
Some taxi drivers might use altered meters or take long routes to increase fares. Always use licensed taxis, and consider using ride-hailing apps where the fare is predetermined.
- Licensed Taxis: Use only black and yellow taxis with a visible license.
- Route Familiarity: Know the general direction to your destination.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Use apps like Uber or Cabify to avoid cash transactions.
2. Pickpocketing at Crowded Locations
Pickpockets often operate in crowded places like markets and public transport. Keep your belongings close, and avoid showing valuable items in public.
- Crowd Awareness: Stay vigilant in busy areas.
- Secure Belongings: Use a money belt or an anti-theft bag.
- Minimal Cash: Carry only what you need.
3. Currency Swindling
Some vendors might give counterfeit bills or shortchange tourists. Familiarize yourself with Argentine currency and count your change.
- Know the Bills: Be aware of common elements on real pesos.
- Count Change: Always count your change immediately after a transaction.
- Exchange Locations: Use official exchange offices or ATMs.
4. Fake Police Officers
Scammers may pose as police and ask for your passport or fines. Policemen in Buenos Aires don’t typically ask tourists for such things without reason.
- Credibility Check: Ask for identification if approached.
- Passport Security: Keep passport copies rather than originals.
- Avoid Cash Transactions: Do not hand over money on the spot.
5. Street Performers and Aggressive Vendors
Watch out for distractions like street performances or aggressive selling tactics used to pickpocket. Politely decline by saying “No, gracias.”
- Polite Decline: Be firm but polite.
- Be Aware of Hands: Keep your pockets and bags secure.
- Travel Companions: Try to stay with a group.
6. Spilled Liquid Trick
Scammers might "accidentally" spill something on you and offer to help clean it up, while stealing from your bag. Ignore it, and walk away confidently.
- Ignore Distractions: Don’t engage with the person.
- Self-Cleaning: Clean spills yourself after leaving the area.
- Bag Awareness: Keep your bag close and zipped.
7. Counterfeit Goods
Avoid buying luxury items or electronics from street vendors, as these may be fake. Purchase only from reputable stores.
- Purchase Locations: Stick to recognized brands or shops.
- Price Too Good: Be skeptical of prices that are too low.
- Ask Locals: Seek advice from locals on good places to shop.
8. ATM Scams
Card skimming devices can be placed on ATMs to steal your card information. Use ATMs located inside banks for safer transactions.
- Inspect Machines: Look for anything suspicious on the machine.
- Indoor ATMs: Use those located inside the bank.
- Card Covering: Shield your PIN when entering it.
9. Street Change Trick
If you pay with large bills, some vendors might claim you gave a smaller amount. Clearly state what you are paying to avoid confusion.
- Verbal Confirmation: State the note denomination aloud.
- Receipt Requests: Ask for a receipt if possible.
- Break Bills: Use smaller bills when possible.
10. Rental Car Scams
Some companies may falsely charge for damages. Photograph the car thoroughly before and after use to avoid disputes.
- Document Condition: Record any pre-existing damage.
- Rental Insurance: Make sure you understand the insurance coverage.
- Rental Agreement: Read the terms and conditions carefully.
11. Tango Show Offers
Promoters might offer discount tickets to a tango show that doesn’t exist. Buy tickets from official venues or your hotel.
- Official Channels: Purchase directly from venues.
- Hotel Assistance: Ask hotel staff for recommendations.
- Research Venues: Check online reviews prior to buying.
12. Fake Tours
Unauthorized guides might offer low-cost tours with false information. Choose official tourism operators for accurate experiences.
- Licensed Guides: Verify guide credentials.
- Tour Company Reviews: Look up reviews online.
- Pre-Booking: Arrange tours in advance through trusted sources.
13. Overcharging at Restaurants
Some places might give you a different menu with higher prices. Always ask for a menu with prices displayed and check your bill.
- Menu Check: Ensure prices are listed.
- Bill Verification: Review your bill closely.
- Trusted Locations: Eat at reputable restaurants.
14. Fake Charity Collectors
Scammers often pose as charity workers on crowded streets. Politely refuse and walk away, donating to known charities instead.
- Verification: Ask for official identification.
- Known Charities: Contribute through established channels.
- Not Obligated: Feel free to decline donations.
15. Bus Ticket Scams
Some might sell fake long-distance bus tickets. Buy tickets directly from the terminal or reliable online platforms.
- Terminal Purchases: Obtain tickets from official booths.
- Platform Credibility: Use reputable websites for bookings.
- Ticket Inspection: Ensure the ticket is official before payment.
16. Jewelry Scams
Someone might drop a ring and offer it to you, asking for a reward. Walk away as these items are often worthless.
- Avoid Picking Up: Do not engage with the scammer.
- Confidence: Keep walking and ignore the interaction.
- Reputation Awareness: Be aware this is a known scam.
17. Inflated Hotel Bills
Hotels might add unauthorized charges to your bill at checkout. Review all charges during your stay and keep documentation.
- Bill Breakdown: Check each charge on the bill.
- Pre-Approval: Confirm all expenses during booking.
- Documentation: Keep receipts of any transactions.
18. Street Gambling Scams
Avoid any street gambling games as they are usually rigged. Keep your distance and enjoy your visit wisely.
- Distance: Stay clear of such activities.
- Risk Awareness: Know that odds are against you.
- Focus on Experience: Invest time in genuine attractions.
19. Fake Compliments
Scammers may flatter you to sell a service or product. Offer a polite smile and walk away.
- Politeness: Acknowledge but don’t engage further.
- Firm Response: Politely decline additional interactions.
- Self-Awareness: Recognize it as a common tactic.
20. Fake Wi-Fi Networks
Be cautious of free, open Wi-Fi networks as they can be used to steal data. Use connections from reputable sources and consider using a VPN.
- Source Reliability: Only connect to trusted networks.
- VPN Usage: Use a Virtual Private Network for added security.
- Data Minimization: Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi.