Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Elazığ, Elazığ, Turkey

All Topics about Elazığ All Cities in Turkey

1. Money Changer Scams

Be wary of unofficial money changers offering unfavorable rates. Always use authorized exchange offices.

Unauthorized Money Changers: They often provide lower exchange rates to swindle unsuspecting tourists.
Authorized Exchange Offices: They have a visible license and offer fairer exchange rates.
Avoid Street Transactions: Exchanging money in the streets can expose you to risk, especially when dealing with unauthorized individuals.

Avoid guides who approach you unsolicited. Only use licensed tour guides from local tourist information offices.

Unsolicited Guides: They may lead you to shops where they receive commission.
Licensed Tour Guides: They provide reliable information and take you to authentic local attractions.
Tourist Information Offices: They can recommend licensed tour guides for your needs.

Avoid taxis without a meter and agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Taxis Without Meters: They may exploit tourists by charging inflated prices.
Metered Taxis: They charge a fair price based on the distance traveled.
Agreeing on Fare: Before starting your journey, discuss and agree on the fare to avoid unexpected charges.

Avoid markets selling counterfeit goods. Support local artisans and buy genuine Turkish souvenirs.

Counterfeit Goods Markets: They sell items that are usually of lower quality and infringe on intellectual property.
Local Artisans: They create authentic Turkish crafts, supporting the local economy and promoting cultural heritage.
Genuine Souvenirs: They are long-lasting keepsakes that remind you of your trip to Elazığ.

Use ATMs located at banks or inside shopping centers instead of standalone machines. Cover the keypad while entering your PIN.

Standalone ATMs: They can have devices installed to record your card and PIN information.
Bank or Shopping Center ATMs: They are less likely to be tampered with due to increased security measures.
Keypad Coverage: Protects your PIN from being observed by potential thieves.

Avoid restaurants near popular tourist attractions. Look for local eateries with reasonable prices.

Restaurants Near Tourist Attractions: They often charge higher prices to take advantage of tourists.
Local Eateries: They serve authentic Turkish food at fair prices, providing a more genuine dining experience.
Reasonable Prices: Enjoy delicious meals without worrying about being overcharged.

Book shore excursions from your cruise ship's official providers or reputable local agencies. Be cautious of unsolicited offers.

Unsolicited Offers: They may lead to overpriced and disappointing experiences.
Cruise Ship Providers: They offer reliable shore excursions that cater to the needs of cruise passengers.
Reputable Local Agencies: They provide personalized and authentic experiences for tourists in Elazığ.

Avoid accessing sensitive information on public Wi-Fi networks. Use a VPN to protect your data.

Public Wi-Fi Networks: They can be insecure and allow others to intercept your data.
VPN Protection: It encrypts your internet connection, making it harder for hackers to access your information.
Avoid Sensitive Data: Only use public Wi-Fi networks for non-sensitive activities like email or social media.

Always purchase ferry tickets from authorized ticket offices. Be wary of individuals offering 'discounted' tickets.

Individuals Offering Discounts: They may sell invalid or overpriced tickets.
Authorized Ticket Offices: They provide valid and correctly priced ferry tickets.
Purchase Before Boarding: Buying your ticket before boarding the ferry ensures you have a valid ticket to travel.

Be cautious when using online dating platforms. Meet potential dates in public places and share minimal personal information.

Online Dating Platforms: They can be used by scammers to exploit unsuspecting users.
Public Meetings: Meeting in public places helps ensure your safety and reduces the risk of encountering a scammer.
Minimal Personal Information: Sharing minimal personal information protects you from identity theft and fraud.

Donate to established and recognized charities. Be wary of individuals soliciting donations on the street.

Individuals Soliciting Donations: They may use your donation for personal gain instead of helping those in need.
Established and Recognized Charities: They have a proven track record of supporting the community and are transparent about their activities.
Official Donation Channels: Donate through official channels such as their website or local office to ensure your donation reaches its intended recipients.

Only visit massage parlors that have a visible license. Be cautious of establishments that offer sexual services.

Unlicensed Massage Parlors: They may provide poor quality services or be fronts for illegal activities.
Licensed Massage Parlors: They adhere to health and safety standards, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Avoid Sexual Services: Massage parlors offering sexual services are often unlicensed and illegal.

Book car rentals from reputable agencies. Check for hidden charges before signing the contract.

Reputable Agencies: They offer reliable cars at fair prices and provide good customer service.
Hidden Charges: Some agencies may try to add extra fees, such as for insurance or fuel, without informing you.
Check Contract Before Signing: Ensure that all charges are clearly stated and agreed upon before signing the contract.

Book accommodation through reputable online platforms or local agencies. Visit the property and check it before paying for a room.

Reputable Online Platforms or Local Agencies: They have verified listings and offer quality accommodations.
Visit the Property Before Paying: Ensures that the accommodation meets your expectations and is safe to stay in.
Check Accommodation Quality: Inspect the rooms, facilities, and location to determine if it is suitable for your needs.

Bargain with merchants in the bazaar to get a fair price. Be aware of shops that target tourists with inflated prices.

Shops Targeting Tourists: They often charge higher prices, taking advantage of unsuspecting visitors.
Bargaining Skills: Negotiating the price can help you get a fairer deal on your purchases.
Support Local Artisans: By bargaining, you not only save money but also encourage local craftsmanship and economy.