Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Cocody, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
1. Grand-Bazaar Scam
Be wary of overpriced items or false currency exchange rates at the bustling Grand-Bazaar. Always confirm prices and exchange rates beforehand.
- Price Negotiation: Know your price range and be prepared to negotiate.
- Currency Exchanges: Use official exchange offices or banks for currency exchanges.
- Trustworthy Shops: Purchase from reputable shops to avoid counterfeit goods.
2. Taxi Scams
Avoid overcharging or being directed to unnecessary destinations by taxi drivers. Use authorized taxis or agree on a price before starting the journey.
- Authorized Taxis: Look for clearly marked, licensed taxis.
- Fixed Prices: Agree on a price before starting the journey to avoid overcharging.
- Unnecessary Stops: Be aware of potential attempts to take you to unnecessary destinations.
3. Street Food Scam
Beware of street food vendors selling contaminated or subpar food. Stick to well-established, busy, and popular food spots.
- Popular Spots: Choose street food vendors with a steady stream of customers.
- Busy Areas: Avoid deserted or secluded areas when eating street food.
- Cleanliness: Observe the cleanliness of the food preparation area and the vendor's practices.
4. Fake Guide Scam
Be cautious of unofficial guides offering services at tourist attractions. Always confirm their accreditation and research beforehand.
- Official Guides: Look for badges, uniforms, or official IDs of licensed tour guides.
- Research Beforehand: Check reviews and recommendations before booking a guide.
- Accreditation Confirmation: Ask for their accreditation number and verify it with local tourism authorities.
5. Counterfeit Goods Scam
Be aware of counterfeit goods sold at markets or shops. Stick to reputable stores and research the authenticity of products.
- Reputable Stores: Purchase from well-established, popular shops.
- Product Research: Research the authenticity of products online before making a purchase.
- Serial Numbers: Check for serial numbers or holograms on products to verify their authenticity.
6. ATM Skimming Scam
Protect your card and pin from skimmers at unsecured ATMs. Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable businesses.
- Secure ATMs: Look for ATMs that are indoors, well-lit, and in secure locations.
- ATM Monitoring: Check the ATM for any suspicious devices or modifications.
- Card Protection: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
7. Currency Exchange Scam
Avoid being cheated in currency exchange deals. Use authorized exchange offices or banks.
- Authorized Exchange Offices: Exchange money at banks, hotels, or authorized exchange offices.
- Avoid Street Exchanges: Avoid exchanging money on the street to avoid counterfeit notes.
- Rate Checking: Compare exchange rates at multiple locations before making a decision.
8. Friendly Scam
Be wary of overly friendly locals who offer help or assistance with the intention of scamming you. Trust your instincts and don't share personal information.
- Personal Information Protection: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information with strangers.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas to minimize risk.
9. Beggar Scam
Some beggars may try to pickpocket or scam you. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious when interacting with beggars.
- Secure Belongings: Keep your valuables in a secure location, such as a zippered pocket or bag.
- Avoid Interaction: Avoid giving money directly to beggars and instead donate to reputable charities.
- Stay Aware: Stay aware of your surroundings and potential distractions when in crowded areas.
10. Fake Police Scam
Criminals may pose as police officers to extort money or search your belongings. Ask for proper identification and confirm with local authorities if needed.
- Proper Identification: Police officers in Cocody should have proper identification.
- Confirm Authenticity: Call local authorities to confirm the officer's authenticity if you are unsure.
- Do Not Hand Over Belongings: Never hand over your belongings or money without proper justification.
11. Internet Café Scam
Some internet cafes may install keyloggers to steal personal information. Use trusted cafes and avoid sharing sensitive info online.
- Trusted Internet Cafes: Choose reputable, popular internet cafes.
- Antivirus Software: Use antivirus software or a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your data.
- Avoid Sensitive Information: Avoid logging into sensitive accounts, such as bank accounts, on public computers.
12. Hotel Room Scam
Be cautious of hotel room keys or cards that don't work properly. Inform hotel staff immediately if there are issues.
- Immediate Reporting: Inform the hotel staff as soon as possible if you experience problems with your room key or card.
- Room Inspection: Check the room for any signs of tampering before using the key or card.
- Trusted Hotels: Stay at well-established, reputable hotels to minimize risk.
13. Bar Scam
Some bars may overcharge or serve watered-down drinks. Research prices beforehand and be cautious of overly friendly locals.
- Price Checking: Research drink prices at local bars before visiting.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated areas to minimize risk.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels suspicious, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
14. Charity Scam
Some charities may not be legitimate or may use donations inappropriately. Research charities before donating and confirm their authenticity.
- Reputable Charities: Research charities online and check for their accreditation.
- Avoid Street Donations: Avoid giving money to street collectors; instead, donate through established channels.
- Confirm Authenticity: Contact local authorities or reputable organizations to confirm the charity's authenticity.
15. Car Rental Scam
Be cautious of hidden charges, damaged vehicles, or misleading information when renting a car. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before signing any agreements.
- Thorough Inspection: Inspect the vehicle for damages and take photos as evidence.
- Check Contract Terms: Carefully read and understand the contract terms before signing.
- Reputable Rental Companies: Rent from reputable, well-established car rental companies.