Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Dengtacun, Liaoning, China

All Topics about Dengtacun All Cities in China

1. Counterfeit Taxi Scam

Unlicensed taxis may overcharge or lead to unsafe areas. Avoid this by using reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps.

Recognizable Logo: Legitimate taxis have recognizable logos and license plates.
Prepaid Meters: Legitimate taxis have prepaid meters. Never agree on a flat rate before starting the journey.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety and never share personal information with drivers.

Fraudulent ticket sellers may offer discounted tickets for popular attractions but lead to scams. Always buy from official outlets.

Official Outlets: Buy tickets from authorized sales points or the attraction's official website.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may sell counterfeit or fake tickets.
Check for Holograms: Legitimate tickets often have holograms, security features, and barcodes.

Dishonest currency exchanges may give less money than agreed or use counterfeit bills. Use reputable exchange centers.

Check Exchange Rates: Know the current exchange rates and compare them before exchanging your money.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may use counterfeit bills or offer unfavorable exchange rates.
Secure Exchange Centers: Use secure and reputable currency exchange centers with good customer reviews.

Some souvenir shops may overcharge tourists. Compare prices at multiple stores before purchasing.

Compare Prices: Always compare prices among various shops to avoid overpricing.
Avoid Market Corners: Market corners are usually more expensive than other areas in the market.
Check for Quality: Ensure that souvenirs are of good quality and not damaged or fake.

Petty thieves may target tourists in crowded areas. Keep belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Secure Bags: Use bags with zippers or slash-proof materials to protect valuables.
Avoid Distractions: Stay aware of your belongings and avoid being distracted in crowded areas.
Traveler's Insurance: Consider traveler's insurance to cover losses or thefts.

Some beggars may be part of organized scams. Be cautious and donate only to reputable charities.

Avoid Giving Money Directly: Instead of giving money directly, consider donating to a local charity.
Stay Aware: Beware of individuals who appear to be part of organized scams or groups.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, where such activities may take place.

Some accommodation providers may charge excessively high prices. Research and compare prices before booking.

Compare Prices Online: Check various online platforms to compare prices and find the best deal.
Avoid Street Bookings: Street bookings may lead to overpriced or substandard accommodations.
Check for Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to ensure a good accommodation experience.

Internet cafes may install keyloggers or viruses on your device. Use reputable internet providers or hotel WiFi.

Reputable Internet Providers: Use well-known internet service providers or hotel WiFi networks.
Install Security Software: Always install security software on your device before using public networks.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Never conduct sensitive transactions such as banking or online shopping while connected to public WiFi.

Unlicensed tour guides may provide incorrect information or lead you to scams. Use authorized tour agencies.

Check for Licenses: Always ask for a tour guide's license and verify it with the local tourist board.
Avoid Street Guides: Street guides may not be licensed or knowledgeable about the area.
Check for Reviews: Read reviews from previous tourists to ensure a quality tour experience.

Some locals may befriend you for personal gain or lead you to scams. Be cautious and maintain a reasonable level of skepticism.

Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and be cautious when meeting new people.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never share personal information such as financial details or home address with strangers.
Stay Safe in Groups: Stay safe by traveling in groups and avoiding isolated areas, especially at night.

Fraudulent transportation cards may malfunction or lead to overcharging. Use official transportation systems and keep a record of transactions.

Official Transport Systems: Use only official public transportation services.
Check Transactions: Regularly check transactions to ensure correct amounts and validity of the card.
Keep Receipts: Save receipts as proof of purchase or usage of transportation cards.

Fraudulent mobile phone service providers may charge excessive fees or provide substandard services. Use reputable providers and monitor usage.

Reputable Providers: Choose well-known mobile phone service providers.
Monitor Usage: Regularly check your usage to avoid excessive fees and monitor for unusual activity.
Contact Customer Service: Contact customer service immediately if you notice any suspicious activity or unexpected charges.

Some restaurants may overcharge tourists or use low-quality ingredients. Research restaurants and be cautious when ordering.

Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous diners to ensure a quality dining experience.
Avoid Street Food Stalls: Street food stalls may use low-quality ingredients or overcharge tourists.
Know the Menu Prices: Be aware of common menu prices and ask for itemized bills to avoid unexpected charges.

Some local festivals may charge excessive fees or have hidden costs. Research the festival and its associated activities before attending.

Check Festival Prices: Research prices for the festival entrance, food, drinks, and other activities.
Avoid Unofficial Vendors: Stay away from unofficial vendors selling tickets or merchandise at inflated prices.
Read Festival Guides: Read festival guides or ask locals about the best times to visit and what to expect.

Some street performers may demand excessive fees or use aggressive tactics. Enjoy performances but be cautious when interacting.

Avoid Interaction: Watch the performance from a distance and avoid interacting directly with the performer.
Know Appropriate Fees: Research common fees for street performances to ensure you're not overpaying.
Avoid Distractions: Stay aware of your belongings and surroundings during interactions with street performers.