Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Changshu, China

All Topics about Changshu All Cities in China

1. Sim Card Scams at Train Station

Avoid fake SIM card vendors offering cheap deals. They may provide poor service or steal personal data.

Official Store Location: Buy SIM cards from official stores.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on trusted SIM card providers.
Check for Permits: Ensure the vendor has a valid business permit and identification.

Some temples may charge tourists for incense sticks or temple visits. Be aware of these unofficial fees.

Official Temple Staff: Ensure the person asking for money is a legitimate temple staff member.
Research Temple Customs: Research local customs and traditions before visiting temples to avoid misunderstandings.
Check Official Signage: Look for official signage stating any fees associated with the temple visit.

Some taxi drivers may overcharge tourists. Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps for fair pricing.

Use Licensed Taxis: Only use taxis with a green license plate.
Download Ride-Sharing Apps: Download and use popular ride-sharing apps for fair pricing.
Check Fare Before Starting Journey: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Beware of counterfeit products sold in local markets. Purchase from reputable vendors.

Check for Brand Logos: Ensure the product has an authentic brand logo and packaging.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on trustworthy market vendors.
Haggle with Confidence: Haggle confidently, but be aware of very low prices that may indicate counterfeit products.

Some street food vendors may use unhygienic practices or sell counterfeit food. Choose popular and clean vendors.

Avoid unlicensed tour guides who may scam tourists. Use licensed and reputable agencies.

Check for a Tour Guide License: Ensure the tour guide has a valid license.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on reputable tour agencies.
Research the Tour Company: Research the company's reputation and customer reviews before booking a tour.

Some attractions may charge inflated or false entrance fees. Verify ticket prices and official entrances.

Check Official Signage: Look for official signage stating the correct entrance fee.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on popular and legitimate attractions.
Research Entrance Fees: Research the entrance fees for various attractions before visiting.

Avoid unofficial currency exchange vendors. Use licensed and reputable exchange services.

Check for a License: Ensure the vendor has a valid license.
Compare Rates: Compare exchange rates with other vendors to ensure fairness.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on reputable currency exchange services.

Some massage parlors may offer illegal services. Visit licensed and reputable spas instead.

Check for a License: Ensure the parlor has a valid license.
Research the Spa: Research the spa's reputation and customer reviews before booking an appointment.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on reputable spas.

Some friendly locals may try to befriend tourists to later scam them. Be cautious and maintain your privacy.

Limit Personal Information Sharing: Avoid sharing personal information with strangers.
Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and be cautious when meeting new people.
Ask for a Second Opinion: If something feels off, ask a friend or hotel staff member for advice.

Some street performers may demand payment after the performance. Observe the performance before offering payment.

Observe the Performance: Watch the performance before offering any payment.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on good street performers.
Be Aware of Demands: Be aware that some performers may demand payment after the performance.

Avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. Use a VPN for secure connections.

Use a VPN: Always use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
Avoid Unsecured Networks: Never access sensitive information on unsecured networks.
Check with Your Hotel or Hostel: Inquire about secure Wi-Fi options at your hotel or hostel.

Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. Keep personal belongings secure.

Keep Your Belongings Secure: Keep your belongings in a safe place, preferably in a secure pocket or bag.
Avoid Displaying Valuables: Avoid displaying valuable items such as smartphones and wallets.
Stay Alert in Crowded Areas: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Some charity collectors may not be legitimate. Verify the authenticity of charities before donating.

Research the Charity: Research the charity's reputation and purpose before donating.
Check for a Permit: Ensure the collector has a valid permit.
Ask Locals or Hotel Staff: Ask locals or hotel staff about legitimate charities in Changshu.

Some cybercafes may install keyloggers or spyware. Use trusted cafes and be cautious when using public computers.

Choose a Reputable Cybercafe: Choose a reputable cybercafe with good reviews.
Use a VPN: Always use a VPN when accessing sensitive information on public computers.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid conducting sensitive transactions on public computers.