
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Delhi Cantonment, Delhi, India
1. Rickshaw Fare Scam
Unscrupulous rickshaw drivers may overcharge unsuspecting tourists. Always agree on a fare before starting the journey.
- Knowledge of Local Rates: Research local rates for rickshaw fares to avoid overcharging.
- Bargaining Skills: Negotiate the fare before getting into the rickshaw.
- Avoiding Distress Situations: Avoid taking a rickshaw when in a hurry or distressed, as it may lead to overcharging.
2. Fake Tour Guide Scam
Unauthorized tour guides may approach you offering services. Stick with licensed guides or organized tours.
- Checking for Licenses: Ask to see the guide's license before agreeing on a tour.
- Researching Tour Operators: Choose well-known and reputable tour operators to avoid scams.
- Reading Online Reviews: Check online reviews for feedback on local guides before booking a tour.
3. Counterfeit Goods Market
Markets selling counterfeit goods may tempt you with low prices. Be cautious and avoid purchasing these items.
- Knowing the Difference: Research the differences between authentic and counterfeit items before traveling.
- Supporting Local Economy: Purchasing genuine local goods supports the local economy.
- Legal Implications: Buying counterfeit goods can have legal implications, both at your destination and upon returning home.
4. Sim Card Scam
Sellers may provide you with a sim card that does not work or overcharge for one. Only buy sim cards from authorized dealers.
- Checking for Authorized Dealers: Buy sim cards from authorized dealers, such as mobile operator stores.
- Avoiding Street Vendors: Do not buy sim cards from street vendors or unauthorized dealers.
- Researching Prices: Research the cost of sim cards before traveling to avoid overpaying.
5. ATM Skimming Scam
Criminals may install skimmers on ATMs to steal your card information. Use ATMs in banks or well-known establishments.
- Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs located inside banks or well-known establishments for increased security.
- Covering the PIN Pad: Cover the PIN pad with your hand when entering your pin to prevent prying eyes.
- Monitoring Accounts: Regularly monitor your account for unusual activity and report any suspicious transactions immediately.
6. Food Poisoning Scam
Restaurants may use poor quality ingredients or contaminate food to make you sick. Stick with well-reviewed and popular restaurants.
- Researching Restaurants: Read online reviews for restaurants before dining.
- Avoiding Street Food: Be cautious when eating street food, as it may not be prepared in a sanitary environment.
- Listening to Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on safe and delicious restaurants.
7. Overpriced Tuk-Tuk Ride
Some tuk-tuk drivers may charge inflated prices for short rides. Negotiate fares before getting into the vehicle.
- Knowledge of Local Rates: Research local rates for tuk-tuk fares to avoid overcharging.
- Bargaining Skills: Negotiate the fare before getting into the tuk-tuk.
- Avoiding Distress Situations: Avoid taking a tuk-tuk when in a hurry or distressed, as it may lead to overcharging.
8. Gold Jewelry Scam
Unscrupulous jewelry sellers may provide fake or low-quality gold jewelry. Only buy from reputable and licensed jewelers.
- Checking for Licenses: Ask to see the jeweler's license before making a purchase.
- Knowledge of Purity Tests: Learn about gold purity tests, such as karat testing, before traveling to avoid purchasing fake jewelry.
- Comparing Prices: Compare prices between jewelers before making a purchase.
9. Taxi Fare Cheating
Some taxi drivers may take circuitous routes to increase the fare. Use apps or pre-paid taxis when available.
- Using Apps for Booking: Use apps like Ola or Uber for booking taxis.
- Asking for a Receipt: Request a receipt at the end of your journey to verify the fare.
- Planning Routes Ahead: Plan your routes ahead to avoid getting lost and overcharged.
10. Fake Charity Collectors
People pretending to collect for charities may approach you. Stick with established organizations.
- Researching Legitimate Charities: Research legitimate charities before traveling to avoid donating to scammers.
- Checking for Identification: Ask collectors for identification and verify their affiliation with a reputable charity.
- Donating through Official Channels: Donate through official channels, such as their website or an authorized donation box.
11. Overpriced Car Rental
Some car rental companies may overcharge or provide vehicles in poor condition. Research rental companies ahead of time.
- Comparing Prices: Compare prices between car rental companies before booking.
- Checking for Condition and Features: Inspect the vehicle before renting to ensure it's in good condition and has all necessary features.
- Reading Reviews: Read online reviews for car rental companies to avoid scams.
12. Tourist Trap Restaurants
Restaurants targeting tourists may overcharge or serve poor quality food. Ask locals for recommendations.
- Listening to Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on safe and delicious restaurants.
- Researching Restaurants: Read online reviews for restaurants before dining.
- Avoiding Touristy Areas: Stay away from touristy areas and choose quieter streets for authentic dining experiences.
13. Harassment at Monuments
Some people may harass tourists at popular monuments. Be assertive and maintain personal space.
- Staying Alert: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Maintaining Personal Space: Maintain a comfortable personal space to avoid unwanted attention.
- Reporting Unwanted Attention: Report any harassment or unwanted attention to local authorities immediately.
14. Beware of Fake Travel Agents
Some travel agents may sell overpriced or non-existent tours. Use reputable and well-known agencies.
- Researching Travel Agencies: Research travel agencies before booking a tour to avoid scams.
- Checking for Licenses: Ask to see the agency's license and verify their authenticity.
- Comparing Prices: Compare prices between travel agencies before booking a tour.
15. Fake Ticket Sellers
Some people may sell fake or overpriced tickets to popular attractions. Only buy tickets from authorized vendors.
- Checking for Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets from authorized vendors, such as official ticket booths or their websites.
- Comparing Prices: Compare prices for tickets to avoid overpaying.
- Avoiding Street Vendors: Do not buy tickets from street vendors or unauthorized dealers.