Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Chongqing, China
1. Taxi Scam: Overcharging
Some taxi drivers may overcharge tourists, especially at night or from the airport. Always agree on a price before starting your journey.
- Price Agreement: Avoid unexpected high prices by agreeing on the fare before starting the ride.
- Official Taxis: Choose official taxis, which can be identified by their red license plates and meters.
- Avoid Night Travel: Try to avoid taxi rides at night when overcharging is more common.
2. Counterfeit Goods Market Scam
Some markets sell counterfeit goods that may appear genuine but are of lower quality or fake. Be wary and only buy from reputable stores.
- Reputable Shops: Purchase items from well-established shops with good reviews.
- Brand Authenticity: Check for signs of authenticity on branded goods, such as holograms or serial numbers.
- Avoid Street Markets: If possible, avoid buying expensive items from street markets where counterfeits are more common.
3. Unlicensed Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed tour guides may offer cheap services but provide poor quality information or lead you to scams. Always ensure your guide is licensed.
- Licensed Guides: Book tours with licensed guides who have official identification.
- Agency Reviews: Research tour agencies and read reviews before booking a tour.
- Official Tourist Spots: Stick to visiting official tourist spots, where licensed guides are more likely to be found.
4. ATM Skimming Scam
Criminals may install skimming devices on ATMs to steal your card information. Only use ATMs in secure locations or inside banks.
- Secure Locations: Use ATMs located in well-lit, crowded areas and avoid using those that look tampered with.
- Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers from capturing your information.
- Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your account activity and report any unusual transactions immediately.
5. Scammy Karaoke Bars Scam
Some karaoke bars may charge exorbitant prices for drinks or force you to pay for services not agreed upon. Stick to reputable bars and agree on costs upfront.
- Reputable Karaoke Bars: Choose well-known, popular karaoke bars with good reviews.
- Agreement on Costs: Discuss and agree on the costs before entering the bar to avoid unexpected charges.
- Stick to Drinks Only: Be wary of food or services that may be overpriced, and stick to ordering drinks only if possible.
6. Cybercafé Scam
Some cybercafes may install malware on your device or overcharge for usage. Use reputable cafes and secure your devices.
- Reputable Cybercafes: Choose well-established cybercafes with good reviews.
- Secure Your Device: Use a VPN to secure your device and protect your data while using public computers.
- Avoid Leaving Devices Unattended: Never leave your devices unattended, as they may be targeted for theft or infection.
7. Dock Scam: Overcharging on Ships
Ship staff may overcharge tourists for services like Wi-Fi or tours. Always confirm prices beforehand and use free services when available.
- Confirm Prices: Ask about the costs of services before using them to avoid unexpected high charges.
- Use Free Services: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi and tours when available, as many ships offer them.
- Stay Informed: Research the services offered on your ship beforehand to avoid overpaying.
8. Fraudulent Charity Scam
Some people may pose as charity collectors but keep the money for themselves. Donate to reputable organizations instead.
- Reputable Organizations: Donate to well-established charities with a proven track record.
- Avoid Street Collections: Avoid donating to individuals or street collections, as they may not be legitimate.
- Check for Authorization: Look for official authorization from the charity organization and government before donating.
9. Street Food Scam: Overcharging or Contamination
Some street food vendors may overcharge tourists or serve contaminated food. Stick to reputable food stalls and avoid eating risky items.
- Reputable Food Stalls: Choose well-established street food vendors with good reviews.
- Avoid Risky Items: Avoid eating undercooked or raw foods to minimize the risk of contamination.
- Check for Hygiene: Look for clean food preparation areas and vendors wearing gloves and protective gear.
10. Overpriced SIM Card Scam
Some mobile operators may sell overpriced SIM cards or tamper with them to cause poor service. Buy SIM cards from official stores and compare prices.
- Official Stores: Purchase SIM cards from authorized mobile operator stores.
- Compare Prices: Research the standard prices for SIM cards before purchasing to avoid overpaying.
- Check Service Coverage: Ensure that the SIM card has good coverage in the areas you will be visiting.
11. Language Barrier Scam
Scammers may exploit language barriers to deceive tourists. Carry a translation app or learn some basic Chinese phrases.
- Translation App: Download and use a reliable translation app to help communicate effectively.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Learn some basic Chinese phrases to facilitate communication and avoid misunderstandings.
- Avoid Isolated Situations: Stay in populated areas or with a tour group to minimize the risk of encountering scammers who exploit language barriers.
12. Hotel Room Scam: Overcharging or Damage
Some hotels may overcharge tourists for services or damage their rooms to claim extra charges. Choose reputable hotels and check the room thoroughly.
- Reputable Hotels: Book rooms in well-established hotels with good reviews.
- Inspect the Room: Check the room thoroughly before accepting it to ensure there is no damage.
- Clarify Charges: Ask about all charges and services included in the room rate to avoid unexpected fees.
13. Fake Guarantee Scam
Some shops may offer a money-back guarantee but refuse refunds. Research the store and read reviews before making a purchase.
- Reputable Shops: Purchase items from well-established shops with good reviews.
- Understand the Guarantee Policy: Read and understand the shop's guarantee policy before making a purchase.
- Avoid Hasty Purchases: Take your time to research the store and product before making a decision to avoid potential scams.
14. Counterfeit Money Scam
Criminals may try to pass off counterfeit money as real. Examine banknotes carefully and exchange larger amounts at banks.
- Examine Banknotes Carefully: Check the quality of the banknote, looking for any irregularities or inconsistencies.
- Exchange Money at Banks: Exchange larger amounts of money at banks to minimize the risk of receiving counterfeit bills.
- Keep Small Amounts of Cash: Carry small amounts of cash for daily expenses and keep large sums in a secure location.
15. Airport Transfer Scam: Overcharging
Some airport transfer services may overcharge tourists. Book transfers through reputable companies or use public transportation.
- Reputable Transfer Services: Choose well-established transfer services with good reviews.
- Use Public Transportation: Consider using public transportation as a cheaper alternative to private transfers.
- Book in Advance: Book airport transfers in advance to get better rates and avoid overpaying.