Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ciudad López Mateos, México, Mexico
1. Taxi Scams
Avoid overpriced or unofficial taxis. Always use licensed taxis from authorized taxi stands.
- Know Licensed Taxi Signs: Recognize the logo and license plates of official taxis.
- Avoid Street Hails: Never hail a taxi from the street in Ciudad López Mateos.
- Use Prepaid Taxis: Pre-pay your fare at designated booths to avoid overcharging.
2. Counterfeit Currency
Be cautious when receiving change or paying with large bills. Familiarize yourself with Mexican Pesos denominations.
- Know Your Money: Learn the appearance and feel of authentic Mexican Pesos.
- Check Change: Always check your change to make sure it's genuine.
- Use ATMs for Large Transactions: Get larger bills from ATMs instead of exchanging money at informal establishments.
3. Street Vendor Scams
Only buy from established vendors in tourist areas. Be wary of low prices or deals that seem too good to be true.
- Know Tourist Areas: Familiarize yourself with authorized vendor locations.
- Ask for Prices Upfront: Always ask for prices before purchasing from a street vendor.
- Check Reviews: Research vendors online to ensure they have good reviews and reliable products.
4. Overpriced Souvenirs
Bargain for prices at souvenir shops. Compare prices between different stores to get the best deal.
- Compare Prices: Always compare prices of similar items in multiple stores.
- Bargain Skillfully: Learn the art of successful bargaining to get a fair price.
- Know Common Scams: Recognize common overpricing tactics such as hidden fees and switcheroos.
5. Dining and Drink Overcharges
Check menus before ordering to avoid unnecessary charges. Stick to established restaurants with reviews.
- Check Menus: Always review the menu before ordering to avoid hidden costs.
- Ask for Item Prices: Never hesitate to ask about the price of items before ordering.
- Research Restaurants: Check online reviews and ratings before dining at a new restaurant.
6. ATM Skimming
Use well-lit and busy ATMs. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.
- Choose Busy Locations: Prefer ATMs in well-populated, well-lit areas.
- Cover Keypad: Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN to avoid being watched.
- Use Credit Cards Wisely: Limit the use of credit cards at ATMs. Consider bringing cash for smaller transactions.
7. Overbooked or Fake Hotels
Book accommodations through reputable websites or agencies. Check the hotel's address and reviews beforehand.
- Use Reputable Booking Sites: Always book your accommodation through trusted travel sites.
- Check Hotel Addresses: Compare the hotel address from your booking confirmation to its location on a map.
- Read Reviews: Always read customer reviews before making a decision.
8. Fake Tour Guides
Book tours through established tour operators or hotels. Be wary of unsolicited offers from strangers.
- Choose Established Operators: Only book tours with licensed and reputable operators.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers to ensure quality service.
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers: Do not engage in discussions about tours with strangers unless you've researched their company first.
9. Fraudulent Police Officers
Stay vigilant and do not provide personal information or valuables to police officers unless it's necessary. Ask for identification if you are approached.
- Ask for Identification: Request identification from law enforcement officials before providing any personal information.
- Do Not Provide Unnecessary Information: Be cautious about sharing personal or financial information with strangers posing as police officers.
- Stay Alert and Aware: Always be aware of your surroundings and any unusual activity in the area.
10. Overpriced or Fake Excursions
Research excursion costs beforehand. Only book excursions through reputable companies with positive reviews.
- Research Costs: Compare prices for similar excursions to ensure a fair price.
- Check Reviews: Always read customer reviews before booking an excursion.
- Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from locals or travelers who have had positive experiences.
11. Overpriced or Fake Car Rentals
Book rental cars through established agencies with good reviews. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Choose Established Rental Agencies: Always rent a car from reputable and established rental agencies.
- Check Reviews: Always read customer reviews before booking a car rental.
- Be Wary of Low Prices: Be cautious about renting cars at extremely low prices as they may be a scam.
12. Ticket Scalping
Only purchase event tickets from authorized outlets or online vendors. Be wary of unsolicited offers.
- Use Authorized Outlets: Always buy event tickets from official ticket sellers.
- Check Event Websites: Always verify ticket information on the event's official website.
- Be Wary of Unsolicited Offers: Do not engage in discussions about tickets with strangers unless you've researched their source first.
13. Safety Tips for Women Travelers
Stay in well-lit and safe areas at night. Avoid isolated locations and traveling alone late at night.
- Stay in Safe Areas: Always stay in well-populated, well-lit areas, especially at night.
- Avoid Isolated Locations: Avoid walking or traveling alone in isolated areas or unpopulated streets.
- Travel with Trusted Companions: Consider traveling with friends, family members, or joining organized tours to stay safe.
14. Pickpocketing and Theft
Keep your belongings close at all times. Use a money belt or travel pouch to conceal valuables.
- Keep Belongings Close: Never leave your belongings unattended, even for a brief moment.
- Use Concealed Storage: Use a money belt or travel pouch to store your valuables and keep them hidden.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings and any unusual activity in the area.
15. Scams Involving Public Wi-Fi
Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks. Use a VPN for added security.
- Avoid Sensitive Info: Do not access personal or financial information on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Use a VPN: Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) for added security when using public Wi-Fi.
- Be Wary of Public Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities unless you have taken proper precautions.