Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Daejeon, Korea, South

1. Taxi Scam Warnings

Avoid overpriced or non-functioning taxis. Use registered taxi services and be aware of common tricks like circuitous routes.

Registered Taxis: Ensure the taxi is properly registered with a company logo and plate number.
Fare Estimation: Use apps to estimate fares before starting your journey.
Avoid Overcrowded Areas: Don't take taxis in overcrowded areas as they might be unregistered or overpriced.

Be cautious of ATMs that do not belong to banks. Use well-lit and secure areas for transactions.

Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located in banks or inside malls for increased security.
Card Skimming: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent keylogging scams.
Limit Cash Withdrawals: Limit cash withdrawals per transaction and monitor account activity regularly.

Avoid street food vendors with no hygiene standards. Ensure the food is properly cooked and safe to eat.

Hygienic Vendors: Choose street food vendors that maintain good hygiene practices.
Cooked Food: Avoid vendors offering pre-cooked food, as it might not be safe.
Busy Areas: Choose busy areas with multiple food vendors for increased safety.

Avoid street markets with overpriced items. Bargain aggressively and research average prices before shopping.

Research Prices: Research the prices of common items before visiting the market.
Bargain Aggressively: Start bargaining at least half the asking price and work your way up.
Avoid Lonely Shops: Shop in busy areas with multiple vendors for better pricing and quality.

Avoid using unsecured internet cafes. Use secure networks and avoid giving sensitive information.

Secure Networks: Use cafes with a VPN or secure Wi-Fi networks.
Avoid Sensitive Info: Avoid entering sensitive information like passwords and bank details.
Check Certificates: Ensure the website address starts with 'https' and has a padlock icon before entering any personal information.

Avoid unlicensed tour guides. Use registered guides and research the company before booking.

Registered Guides: Check if the guide is registered with a recognized travel agency.
Company Research: Research the tour company's reputation and reviews before booking.
Avoid Street Guides: Don't accept offers from unofficial guides on the street.

Avoid buying tickets from unauthorized sellers. Purchase tickets from authorized outlets only.

Authorized Outlets: Buy tickets directly from the venue or authorized ticket offices.
Check Event Dates: Verify event dates and locations to avoid buying fake tickets.
Avoid Street Vendors: Don't buy tickets from street vendors or individuals, as they may be counterfeit.

Avoid booking accommodations through unauthorized websites. Use trusted online travel agencies.

Online Travel Agencies: Book accommodations through well-known online travel agencies.
Check Reviews: Read reviews and check photos of the accommodation before booking.
Avoid Street Bookings: Don't book accommodations directly from individuals on the street.

Avoid handing over lost items to strangers. Report lost items to the local police station.

Police Station Reports: Report lost items to the police station for proper documentation.
Avoid Strangers: Don't hand over lost items to strangers, as they might try to take advantage of you.
Item Safety Measures: Take precautions to ensure the safety of your belongings, such as using a travel safe or locking them in your accommodation.

Avoid using credit cards at unsecured locations. Monitor account activity regularly.

Secure Transactions: Use secure payment terminals and avoid sketchy locations for card transactions.
Regular Monitoring: Monitor account activity regularly to detect any unusual transactions.
Emergency Contact: Save emergency contact numbers for your bank and credit card company in case of theft or fraud.

Avoid using phones near sketchy locations. Use a prepaid SIM card for extra security.

Secure Locations: Use phones in secure locations to avoid pickpocketing or eavesdropping.
Prepaid SIM Cards: Use prepaid SIM cards for added security and control over phone usage.
Backup Contacts: Save important contacts on multiple devices or cloud storage in case of theft or loss.

Avoid exchanging money at street exchange booths. Use banks or authorized exchange centers.

Authorized Exchange Centers: Use banks, post offices, or authorized exchange centers for currency exchange.
Check Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates at multiple locations to ensure fairness.
Avoid Street Vendors: Don't exchange money with street vendors or individuals, as they may try to give you less than the agreed amount.

Avoid buying tickets from unauthorized sellers. Purchase tickets from authorized outlets only.

Authorized Outlets: Buy tickets directly from the station or authorized ticket offices.
Check Ticket Prices: Verify ticket prices before buying to avoid overpaying.
Avoid Street Vendors: Don't buy tickets from street vendors or individuals, as they may be counterfeit.

Research local customs to avoid unintentional offenses. Be cautious of strangers offering gifts or favors.

Local Customs Research: Research common customs and etiquette before visiting Daejeon.
Avoid Unsolicited Gifts: Decline unsolicited gifts or offers from strangers, as they might have hidden costs.
Stay Informed: Remain informed about local scams and fraud schemes by consulting travel advisories and forums.

Save emergency contact numbers for local embassies, hospitals, and police stations.

Local Embassy Contacts: Have the contact details of your country's embassy in South Korea.
Hospital Emergency Numbers: Save emergency numbers for hospitals in case of medical emergencies.
Police Station Contacts: Keep the contact details of local police stations for reporting incidents or seeking assistance.