Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Conakry, Guinea

1. Marketplace Money-Changers

Avoid exchanging money at unofficial marketplaces, as rates may be unfavorable and transactions could be fraudulent.

Unfavorable Exchange Rates: Official banks usually provide fairer exchange rates.
Lack of Regulation: Unofficial money-changers may not follow any regulations.
Risk of Theft: Official banks have more security measures in place.

Avoid taxis without meters; agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Overcharging: Taxis with meters charge based on distance.
Bargaining Skills: Negotiating the fare beforehand helps avoid disagreements.
Safety: Avoid taxis without seat belts or lacking basic safety features.

Buy sim cards only from authorized dealers to avoid fraudulent charges.

Unauthorized Sales: Authorized dealers provide genuine SIM cards.
Hidden Charges: Unauthorized SIM cards may have hidden charges.
Identity Theft: Using unauthorized SIM cards might expose your personal information.

Always confirm guides are registered with the Ministry of Tourism to ensure authenticity.

Unregistered Guides: Registered guides provide better information and safety.
Misinformation: Fake guides may lead you to overpriced or low-quality attractions.
Risk of Theft: Registered guides have been background checked and are accountable for their actions.

Avoid giving money or personal belongings during fake police stops; they should never ask for money.

Extortion: Real police officers will not solicit money from you.
Identity Theft: Fake police may ask for your personal information or demand to search your belongings.
Risk of Violence: Always stay calm and call the embassy or local authorities if in doubt.

Be cautious when strangers offer to help; they may try to scam you or lead you into dangerous situations.

Friendship Baiting: Strangers may pretend to be friendly to gain your trust.
Robbery: Fake friends might try to rob you or take advantage of your kindness.
Dangerous Situations: Strangers may lead you into dangerous areas, especially at night.

Avoid restaurants near tourist attractions; they often overcharge.

High Prices: Restaurants in less-touristy areas usually offer the same food at lower prices.
Lower Quality Food: Restaurants near tourist attractions may use lower quality ingredients.
Fraudulent Charges: Avoid restaurants where you're charged for items you didn't order.

Buy only from authorized stores to avoid counterfeit goods.

Poor Quality: Counterfeit goods often break easily or do not perform as advertised.
Lack of Authenticity: Buying counterfeits supports illegal activities and undermines the local economy.
Health Risks: Counterfeit electronics may have faulty components that could cause injuries or fires.

Use ATMs at banks during the daytime to avoid skimming and card trapping scams.

Skimming: Criminals attach devices to ATMs to steal your information.
Card Trapping: Thieves may block your card in the machine, then ask for help, only to steal it.
Surveillance: Be aware of anyone loitering nearby when using an ATM.

Stay at reputable hotels or guest houses for safety and security.

Security Risks: Reputable accommodations have better security measures in place.
Poor Conditions: Unsafe accommodations may have broken furniture or faulty electrical wiring.
Lack of Amenities: Reputable hotels and guest houses offer essential amenities like hot water and reliable Wi-Fi.

Give to reputable charities only, or donate directly through their official channels.

Lack of Transparency: Fraudulent charity collectors may not use your money for its intended purpose.
False Claims: Genuine charities can provide proof of their work and mission.
Risk of Theft: Avoid giving money to people on the street, especially in high-crime areas.

Know the fair market price for items before bargaining to avoid being overcharged.

Overpricing: Sellers may try to charge double or triple the fair market price.
Inflated Prices: Knowing the fair prices helps you make informed decisions.
Persistence: Be prepared for sellers to persistently bargain and negotiate.

Avoid private cars without seat belts or safety features for your own protection.

Safety Risks: Modern, well-maintained vehicles are safer and more reliable.
Lack of Regulation: Private cars without safety features may not comply with regulations.
Risk of Theft: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables in public transportation.

Be cautious when receiving unsolicited business invitations; they may lead to scams or dangerous situations.

Fraudulent Business Proposals: Scammers may try to solicit money, personal information, or ask you to attend a meeting with the intention of committing fraud.
Identity Theft: Scammers may use your information for illegal activities.
Risk of Theft: Avoid meetings in secluded or unfamiliar areas to minimize the risk of robbery.

Choose food vendors that display a health department certificate for safe and hygienic food.

Foodborne Illnesses: Unsafe food can cause serious illnesses.
Lack of Hygiene: Vendors without a health department certificate may not follow proper hygiene practices.
Risk of Contamination: Avoid consuming food from vendors who handle money directly.