Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Dongyang, China

All Topics about Dongyang All Cities in China

1. Taxi Overcharging Scam

Be aware of overpriced taxi fares. Always use a taximeter and agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Knowledge of Rates: Familiarize yourself with standard taxi rates in Dongyang.
Taxi Licensing: Ensure the taxi is licensed and displays a valid license number.
Negotiating Fare: Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey to avoid any unexpected costs.

Be cautious when purchasing branded goods from street vendors. It's possible they are selling counterfeits.

Brand Authenticity: Check for any signs of poor quality or irregularities that may indicate counterfeit goods.
Price Differences: Be aware of prices significantly lower than the usual market rate, as it might be a sign of counterfeit goods.
Legal Consequences: Purchasing counterfeit goods can lead to legal issues. Stick to legitimate stores or markets.

Be cautious when dining at street food stalls with poor hygiene practices. Some may intentionally contaminate the food to get compensation.

Hygiene Standards: Look for clean and well-managed food stalls.
Traveler's Health: If you suspect food poisoning, seek medical attention immediately.
Report Unsafe Vendors: Report any suspicious food stalls or vendors to local authorities.

Some unlicensed tour guides may offer their services at a lower price but provide misinformation and take you to overpriced shops.

Licensing Verification: Always verify the guide's license before hiring.
Shop Recommendations: Avoid guides who push you to visit specific shops or attractions excessively.
Price Comparison: Compare prices at recommended shops with those in other areas to ensure fairness.

Some currency exchange offices may offer lower-than-market exchange rates. Compare rates before exchanging money.

Rates Comparison: Compare rates among different exchange offices to get the best deal.
Licensing Verification: Ensure the exchange office is licensed and trustworthy.
Secure Exchange: Exchange money in a secure location or bank to minimize the risk of theft.

Some locals may try to 'return' lost items with the intention of demanding compensation. Always verify the item's origin before paying.

Item Verification: Verify that the returned item is indeed yours.
Licensing Verification: Always verify that the person returning your lost property has a valid identification.
Witnesses and Photos: Ask for witnesses or take photos as proof of ownership before paying.

Be aware of pickpockets operating in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions.

Secure Belongings: Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items.
Awareness: Stay alert and maintain situational awareness in crowded areas.
Report Suspicious Activities: Report any suspicious activities to local authorities.

Some attractions may overcharge tourists for entry fees. Research the standard prices before visiting.

Standard Prices: Research the standard prices of popular tourist attractions.
Entry Fee Comparison: Compare entry fees among different attractions to avoid overpaying.
Buy Tickets Directly: Purchase tickets directly from the attraction's official website or ticket office to avoid scams.

Some free wifi hotspots in tourist areas may expose your device to malware or steal personal information.

Secure Connections: Always use a VPN for secure connections.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid sensitive transactions, such as online banking or shopping, on unsecured networks.
Updates and Security Apps: Ensure your device's software is up-to-date and use security apps to protect your data.

Some rental properties may not live up to their descriptions or be outright frauds. Always research and verify the accommodation before booking.

Online Reviews: Read online reviews of the accommodation from previous guests.
Photos Verification: Verify that the provided photos match the actual accommodation.
Secure Payment Methods: Use secure payment methods, such as credit cards or verified online platforms.

Some street performers may demand money after a performance. If you did not make any explicit agreement to pay, it is okay to decline.

Explicit Agreements: Always make explicit agreements before asking for a performance.
Generosity: If you enjoyed the performance, feel free to show your appreciation with a small tip.
Safety Precautions: Be cautious of any performer who becomes aggressive or intimidating when asking for payment.

Some vendors may sell SIM cards at inflated prices. Compare rates and purchase from reputable stores.

Rates Comparison: Compare rates among different SIM card vendors.
Licensing Verification: Ensure the vendor is licensed and trustworthy.
Secure Activation: Activate your SIM card in a secure location to minimize the risk of theft.

Some massage parlors may offer services that are illegal or unsafe. Always verify the parlor's licensing before booking a massage.

Licensing Verification: Ensure the massage parlor is licensed and follows local regulations.
Safety Precautions: Be cautious of any parlor that does not adhere to safety precautions or provides unsolicited services.
Reputation and Reviews: Check the reputation and reviews of the massage parlor before visiting.

Some art galleries may sell counterfeit or overpriced artwork. Research the artist and gallery before purchasing.

Artist Verification: Research the artist's reputation and verify their authenticity.
Gallery Reputation: Check the gallery's reputation and reviews online.
Price Comparison: Compare prices among different galleries to avoid overpaying for counterfeit artwork.

Some individuals or groups may claim to be collecting money for charity but are actually scams. Verify the legitimacy of charities before donating.

Charity Verification: Verify the legitimacy of the charity by researching its reputation and registration.
Official Documents: Ask for official documents, such as a license or permit, to confirm the charity's authenticity.
Secure Donation Methods: Donate through secure methods, such as the charity's official website or bank transfer.