Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Gothenburg, Västra Götaland, Sweden

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1. Molndals Centrum Scam Alert

Stay vigilant in Molndals Centrum mall, especially during peak hours. Be wary of individuals offering 'help' or appearing distressed.

Distressed Individuals: Avoid interacting with anyone feigning distress or vulnerability.
Peak Hours: Be extra cautious during crowded times when pickpockets are more active.
Helpful Strangers: Refrain from accepting help or gifts from strangers, even if they seem friendly.

Avoid food or drink being offered by strangers on Vasagatan street. It often leads to inflated bills or theft.

Street Food/Drink: Do not accept any food or drinks from unknown sources on this street.
Inflated Bills: Be aware of manipulated receipts or unexpected high prices.
Stealing Valuables: Keep personal belongings secure at all times when in this area.

Beware of unauthorized ticket sellers on trams in Gothenburg. Always buy tickets from valid machines or the driver.

Unauthorized Sellers: Do not purchase tickets from anyone other than official sources.
Ticket Machines: Use ticket machines at tram stops or buy directly from the driver.
Fine for No Ticket: Be aware that traveling without a valid ticket results in hefty fines.

Watch out for bag swapping or distraction pickpocketing at Liseberg amusement park. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Bag Swapping: Never leave your bag unattended, even for a moment.
Distraction Theft: Be cautious when approached by strangers who seem to be trying to distract you.
Secure Lockers: Use the lockers provided for valuable items during your visit.

Be cautious when using internet cafes in Gothenburg. Some may have hidden cameras or keyloggers on computers.

Hidden Cameras: Avoid using webcams or sensitive information on unfamiliar machines.
Keyloggers: Use a VPN service when accessing sensitive accounts on borrowed devices.
Unattended Computers: Avoid using unattended computers, as they may have malware installed.

Only use registered taxis in Gothenburg. Check the taxi's identification and compare it with the one displayed on the vehicle.

Registered Taxis: Use only authorized taxi services.
ID Verification: Ensure the driver's ID matches the one displayed on the vehicle.
Fare Calculation: Use the fare calculator in the taxi or ask for an estimate before starting your journey.

Be wary of overpriced hostels in Gothenburg offering no-show deals. Always check reviews and book through trusted websites.

No-Show Deals: Avoid booking with hostels that offer unrealistic discounts or no-show deals.
Reviews: Check reviews and ratings of the hostel before booking.
Trusted Websites: Book your accommodation through reputable online travel agencies.

Be cautious when renting apartments in Gothenburg, especially from unverified sources. Always double-check the listing details and reviews.

Unverified Sources: Rent only from verified platforms or agencies.
Listing Details: Thoroughly inspect the apartment details and compare them with other listings.
Reviews: Check reviews from previous guests to ensure a positive experience.

Be aware of card skimmers and shoulder surfers at some ATMs in Gothenburg. Use well-lit, busy areas or indoor machines.

Card Skimmer: Inspect the ATM for suspicious devices before using it.
Shoulder Surfers: Be vigilant when entering your PIN and cover the keypad with your hand.
Indoor Machines: Prefer using indoor ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas.

Stick with trusted friends and avoid accepting drinks from strangers in Gothenburg's nightlife. Watch out for overpriced or diluted drinks.

Trusted Friends: Never leave your drink unattended and always keep an eye on your friends.
Overpriced Drinks: Check the prices of drinks before ordering to avoid being overcharged.
Diluted Drinks: Be cautious when receiving your drink, as it may have been diluted or tampered with.

Bargain and haggle in souvenir shops, but be aware of overpriced items. Compare prices across multiple shops.

Overpriced Items: Compare prices for the same item in various shops to find a fair price.
Bargaining: Negotiate prices when purchasing souvenirs, but be reasonable and respectful.
Reputable Shops: Choose reputable souvenir shops that have good reviews and a wide selection of items.

Do not feel obligated to tip street musicians in Gothenburg. If you choose to give a donation, only offer the amount you are comfortable with.

Tipping Obligation: You are not required to tip any amount, even if the music is good.
Donation Amount: Offer a donation that you are comfortable with and can afford.
Attention Seeking Behavior: Be cautious if the musician seems to be using aggressive or manipulative tactics to get your attention.

Only buy ferry tickets from authorized booths in Gothenburg. Be wary of individuals offering discounted or fake tickets.

Authorized Booths: Purchase your ferry ticket only from the official sales points.
Discounted Tickets: Be suspicious of anyone offering discounted or counterfeit tickets.
Fine for No Valid Ticket: Understand that traveling without a valid ticket will result in penalties.

Bargain and haggle at Gothenburg markets, but be aware of overpriced items. Compare prices across multiple stalls.

Overpriced Items: Compare prices for the same item in various stalls to find a fair price.
Bargaining: Negotiate prices when purchasing items, but be reasonable and respectful.
Reputable Stalls: Choose reputable stalls that have good reviews and a wide selection of items.

Thoroughly inspect the rental car in Gothenburg before driving away. Check for existing damages and take photos as evidence.

Existing Damages: Inspect the rental car thoroughly to identify any pre-existing damages.
Take Photos: Document any damage found on the car with photos as evidence.
Return Condition: Return the rental car in the same condition as when you received it to avoid additional charges.