Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Dunhua, Jilin, China
1. Street Food Scam
Fraudulent vendors may sell fake or overpriced food. Always verify the authenticity of vendors and prices.
- Verification: Ask locals for recommendations or check online reviews.
- Price Check: Compare prices with other vendors in the area.
- Health Concerns: Ensure food is properly cooked and served to avoid foodborne illnesses.
2. Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed tour guides may lead you to overpriced shops or scams. Always confirm the guide's license before hiring.
- License Confirmation: Ask for identification and contact local tourist authority to verify.
- Itinerary Review: Discuss the itinerary beforehand to avoid unexpected stops at unauthorized locations.
- Price Negotiation: Negotiate prices upfront and be wary of guides who push for immediate payment without agreement.
3. Taxi Scam
Taxis may use meter tampering or take longer routes to increase fares. Ensure the taxi is licensed and use GPS for navigation.
- Licensed Taxi: Confirm the vehicle's license plate number matches the one registered with the local authority.
- Meter Usage: Insist on using the meter and report any tampering to the driver or authorities.
- Navigation: Use GPS or maps for navigation and confirm the route with the driver.
4. Fake Attraction Scam
Some attractions may not exist or be closed. Confirm the opening hours and authenticity before visiting.
- Verification: Check online for reviews and photos of the attraction.
- Opening Hours: Confirm the attraction's operating hours before planning a visit.
- Local Recommendations: Ask locals for their recommendations and experiences with the attraction.
5. Currency Exchange Scam
Unlicensed exchange vendors may give you less money or charge inflated exchange rates. Only use licensed exchange offices.
- License Verification: Check for the vendor's license and look for signs of official authorization.
- Exchange Rates Comparison: Compare exchange rates with other licensed vendors or banks in the area.
- Security Measures: Ensure the exchange office has proper security measures, such as a lockbox for exchanged money.
6. Hotel Scam
Fraudulent hotels may overcharge, provide subpar service, or not deliver on promised amenities. Research your accommodation before booking.
- Reviews and Ratings: Read online reviews and check ratings to gauge the quality of the hotel.
- Location Confirmation: Check the hotel's exact location on a map and confirm it is safe and convenient.
- Service and Amenities: Ensure the hotel offers the services and amenities you require before booking.
7. Public Transportation Scam
Some public transportation vehicles may overcharge or skip stops. Verify fare prices and route information before boarding.
- Fare Price Verification: Check the official fare price for your destination before boarding.
- Route Confirmation: Confirm the vehicle's route with the driver or conduct research ahead of time.
- Safety Precautions: Stay vigilant and avoid secluded areas or empty vehicles, especially at night.
8. Market Scam
Vendors may sell fake goods or overcharge for items. Always haggle and verify the authenticity of goods.
- Authenticity Verification: Look for quality, packaging, and any identifying marks to confirm authenticity.
- Haggle: Negotiate prices and walk away if the vendor refuses a fair price.
- Reputable Vendors: Ask for recommendations from locals or return to vendors with good reputations.
9. SIM Card Scam
Unauthorized SIM card vendors may sell faulty cards or overcharge. Only purchase SIM cards from authorized retailers.
- Authorized Retailer: Look for official retailers, such as phone stores or airport kiosks.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices with other authorized vendors to ensure fairness.
- Service Quality: Research the quality of service provided by different providers before purchasing a SIM card.
10. Bar Scam
Fraudulent bars may overcharge for drinks or serve subpar alcohol. Research establishments and check prices before entering.
- Reputation: Check online reviews and ask locals about their experiences.
- Price Comparison: Compare drink prices with other bars in the area to ensure fairness.
- Service Quality: Ensure the bar offers good service and a clean environment before deciding to visit.
11. Accommodation Switch Scam
Hotel staff may switch you to a lower-quality room without your knowledge or consent. Insist on your reserved room and check it before unpacking.
- Reservation Verification: Check the hotel's records to confirm your reservation.
- Room Inspection: Inspect the room before unpacking to ensure it meets your expectations.
- Communication: Speak with hotel staff about any issues and ask for a better room if necessary.
12. Ticket Scam
Counterfeit or overpriced tickets may be sold for attractions, events, and public transportation. Always purchase tickets from official vendors.
- Official Vendor: Look for authorized ticket booths or outlets.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices with other official vendors to ensure fairness.
- Ticket Authenticity: Check the ticket for any identifying marks, such as holograms or watermarks.
13. ATM Scam
Skimming devices may be used on ATMs to steal your card information. Only use ATMs in secure locations and covered areas.
- Secure Location: Avoid using ATMs in secluded or poorly lit areas.
- Covered Area: Choose an ATM that is located indoors or under a covered structure.
- Card Safety: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN and be aware of any unusual activity around the ATM.
14. Fraudulent Charity Scam
Some charities may not use donations for their intended purpose or overcharge for goods. Research charities before donating.
- Reputation: Check online reviews and ask locals about the charity's reputation.
- Transparency: Ensure the charity provides details on how donations are used.
- Licensed Charity: Verify that the charity is licensed and registered with local authorities.
15. Internet Café Scam
Unreliable internet cafés may install keyloggers or overcharge for usage. Only use trusted internet cafés and be cautious of your sensitive information.
- Reputation: Ask locals for recommendations on reliable internet cafés.
- Security Measures: Ensure the café uses updated antivirus software and has a secure network connection.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices with other internet cafés to ensure fairness.