Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Çankaya, Turkey

All Topics about Çankaya All Cities in Turkey

1. Grand Bazaar Scam Awareness

Avoid overpriced souvenirs and fake guides at Istanbul's Grand Bazaar by bargaining and researching fair prices.

Bargain Smartly: Know the market price before negotiating.
Avoid Unofficial Guides: Only accept guides from authorized booths or agencies.
Stay Alert: Be aware of distractions that might lead to pickpocketing.

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by using licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps like BiTaksi.

Use Licensed Taxis: Recognize yellow, white, and red licensed taxis with a license plate number starting with '24'.
Use Ride-Sharing Apps: Download BiTaksi or similar apps before arriving in Turkey.
Negotiate Fare: Always agree on the fare before starting your ride.

Avoid skimming and card trapping at ATMs by using well-lit, indoor ATMs or bank branches.

Choose Indoor ATMs: Prefer using ATMs located inside banks for added security.
Use Well-lit Areas: Choose well-lit and busy locations to minimize the risk of tampering.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your account for any unauthorized transactions.

Avoid overpriced meals and hidden charges at restaurants by choosing popular, reviewed eateries.

Choose Popular Restaurants: Opt for restaurants with a steady flow of customers.
Check Reviews: Read reviews and ratings from trusted sources before dining out.
Ask for Itemized Bill: Always request an itemized bill to avoid hidden charges.

Avoid sim card scams by purchasing sim cards from authorized vendors like Turkcell or Vodafone.

Use Authorized Vendors: Buy sim cards only from official retail stores of Turkcell, Vodafone, or similar providers.
Verify IMEI Number: Check the IMEI number on your phone matches the one on the sim card package.
Secure Your Sim Card: Register your SIM card with the provider to prevent unauthorized usage.

Avoid overpriced and potentially dangerous tourist buses by taking public transportation or organized tours.

Use Public Transportation: Use buses, trams, or metros for sightseeing.
Opt for Organized Tours: Book tours from reputable operators to ensure safety and fair pricing.
Ask Locals: Seek advice from locals before taking any unconventional transportation options.

Avoid foodborne illnesses and overpriced street food by choosing established carts or restaurants.

Choose Established Carts: Opt for street food from carts with a steady flow of customers.
Check Hygiene: Ensure the food is prepared in a clean and hygienic environment.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals or fellow travelers about good street food options.

Avoid unfair exchange rates by exchanging money at banks or authorized exchange offices.

Use Banks and Authorized Offices: Exchange money only at banks, post offices, or authorized exchange offices.
Check Rates Beforehand: Research the current exchange rate before exchanging currency.
Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid exchanging money with street vendors or individuals, as they often offer unfavorable rates.

Avoid overpriced gold and jewelry by researching fair prices and shopping at reputable stores.

Research Fair Prices: Know the market price of gold and jewelry before shopping.
Shop at Reputable Stores: Buy from stores with a good reputation and customer reviews.
Check Certificates: Ask for certificates verifying the quality of gold and jewelry.

Avoid counterfeit or overpriced tickets for events by purchasing them from authorized vendors.

Use Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets only from authorized ticket outlets or event websites.
Check for Official Logos: Verify that the ticket has an official logo of the venue or organizer.
Ask for Recommendations: Seek advice from locals or fellow travelers about good ticket sources.

Avoid overpriced dolmus rides by knowing the correct fare and riding during peak hours.

Know the Correct Fare: Research the standard fare for your destination before traveling.
Travel During Peak Hours: Take dolmuses during busy hours to ensure they follow their routes and do not overcharge.
Stay Alert: Remain aware of your surroundings and avoid deserted or poorly-lit areas.

Avoid overpriced items and fake merchandise at flea markets by bargaining and researching fair prices.

Bargain Smartly: Know the market price before negotiating.
Avoid Unofficial Vendors: Only accept goods from authorized booths or areas.
Stay Alert: Be aware of distractions that might lead to pickpocketing.

Avoid data theft and malware on public WiFis by using a VPN or avoiding sensitive activities.

Use a VPN: Connect to a secure, encrypted network with a VPN service.
Avoid Sensitive Activities: Do not perform sensitive activities like banking or emailing on public WiFis.
Choose Secure Networks: Connect only to password-protected networks and avoid unsecured WiFi hotspots.

Avoid overpaying for performances or being scammed by street performers by setting a budget and sticking to it.

Set a Budget: Decide in advance how much you're willing to spend on street performances.
Negotiate Fairly: Offer a reasonable amount based on the performance quality and your budget.
Stay Alert: Remain aware of distractions that might lead to pickpocketing during performances.

Avoid hidden charges and damaged vehicles by renting from reputable agencies with insurance.

Use Reputable Agencies: Rent from well-established car rental companies.
Check the Vehicle: Inspect the vehicle for damages before accepting it.
Purchase Insurance: Buy insurance to cover any potential damage or theft during your rental period.