Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Fuding, Fujian, China

1. Fuding Night Market Scam

Avoid overpriced goods or fake goods at the bustling Fuding Night Market. Be cautious when shopping.

Price Check: Always compare prices with multiple vendors before purchasing
Avoid Isolated Vendors: Stay away from isolated or suspicious-looking vendors
Knowledgeable Bargaining: Understand the value of items and confidently negotiate prices

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by negotiating fares before starting your journey.

Know Fixed Rates: Familiarize yourself with the fixed rates from popular destinations
Ask for Receipt: Request a receipt as proof of payment and fair pricing
Use Trusted Companies: Choose reputable taxi companies to minimize overcharging risks

Avoid unlicensed tour guides who may charge exorbitant fees or lead you to fraudulent attractions.

Check for License: Ensure your guide carries a valid tour guide license
Avoid Street Guides: Stay away from unofficial guides soliciting on the street
Research Tour Companies: Choose a reputable tour company for guided tours

Avoid poor exchange rates or receiving counterfeit currency by exchanging money at authorized locations.

Check Location: Exchange money at banks, hotels, or authorized exchange centers
Verify Exchange Rates: Compare multiple locations to find the best exchange rates
Count Your Money: Count your money carefully and check for any discrepancies

Avoid fake or overpriced museum tickets. Always verify the authenticity of your tickets.

Check Ticket Price: Know the admission fee for each attraction and compare with others
Verify Museum Credentials: Ensure the museum is officially recognized by Fuding authorities
Buy Tickets at Counter: Purchase your tickets at the ticket counter to avoid counterfeit issues

Avoid food poisoning by choosing street foods from busy, popular vendors.

Busy Vendors: Choose busy vendors with a high turnover rate and fresh ingredients
Cooking Practices: Observe food preparation practices, such as proper cooking temperatures and hand washing
Stay Away from Suspicious Vendors: Avoid vendors with questionable hygiene or suspicious food handling practices

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods by verifying the authenticity of products.

Price Check: Compare prices with multiple vendors before purchasing
Look for Authentic Logos: Inspect products for correct logos, packaging, and quality
Know the Source: Research reputable shopping areas in Fuding to find authentic goods

Avoid unwanted souvenirs by carefully choosing your purchases.

Need Before Purchase: Think about whether you actually need or want the item before purchasing
Know the Price: Understand the value of items and negotiate prices confidently
Bargain Carefully: Negotiate prices cautiously, as aggressive bargaining may lead to misunderstandings

Avoid ticket scalping by purchasing tickets directly from authorized sources.

Check Authorized Sources: Purchase tickets from the official box office or authorized resellers
Avoid Street Vendors: Stay away from ticket scalpers soliciting on the street
Compare Prices: Compare prices with other ticket sources to avoid overpaying

Avoid accommodation overcharging by booking rooms at reputable hotels or hostels.

Check Price and Reviews: Compare prices with multiple accommodations and read reviews
Book in Advance: Book your accommodation well in advance to secure the best rates
Check Location: Choose accommodations located centrally or near popular attractions

Avoid ticket scams by purchasing tickets at the official train station ticket counter.

Check Counter Location: Purchase tickets only from the official ticket counters
Avoid Street Vendors: Stay away from unofficial vendors offering train tickets
Verify Ticket Authenticity: Inspect your ticket for authenticity before boarding the train

Avoid transportation scams by understanding the local bus and minivan routes.

Check Fare Rates: Know the fare rates for local transport and compare with other passengers
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings during transportation
Ask for Help if Needed: Ask locals or tour guides for assistance if unsure about transportation

Avoid data theft by using secure connections when accessing public Wi-Fi.

Use VPN: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your connection
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid sensitive transactions, such as banking or online shopping
Be Aware of Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of emails and websites that ask for personal information

Avoid the 'unwanted help' scam by politely declining assistance from strangers offering help.

Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and be cautious when accepting help from strangers
Ask for Help if Needed: If you truly need help, ask locals or tour guides for assistance
Protect Your Belongings: Keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items publicly

Avoid ATM scams by using well-lit and secure machines and never disclose your PIN.

Check Machine Location: Choose ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your other hand when entering your PIN
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account for unauthorized transactions