Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Greenville, South Carolina, United States

1. Flat Tire Scam

Scammers offer help with a flat tire and overcharge or cause additional damage.

Knowledgeable Tourist: Recognize genuine assistance vs. potential scam
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-lit, populated locations to minimize risk
Call for Help: Contact a trusted service provider if unsure about assistance

Scammers place fake parking tickets on vehicles and demand payment for removal.

Legitimate Parking Spots: Park in authorized spaces to avoid ticket scams
Check Local Rules: Understand parking regulations to avoid tickets
Report Suspicious Activities: Inform authorities about any questionable activities

Scammers offer unauthorized or overpriced tours of Greenville.

Official Guides: Verify guide's credentials and affiliations
Reputable Tour Companies: Choose tour companies with positive reviews and recommendations
Online Research: Research attractions to plan your own self-guided tours

Scammers sell fake goods at tourist locations.

Brand Authenticity: Purchase items directly from authorized retailers
Inspect Items Carefully: Check for signs of poor quality or inconsistencies in products
Avoid Street Vendors: Shop at reputable stores to minimize risk

Scammers install skimming devices on ATMs to steal your information.

Secure ATMs: Use ATMs inside banks or secure facilities
Cover Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging
Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly review account activity for unauthorized transactions

Scammers send emails claiming you've won a lottery in Greenville.

Ignore Unsolicited Emails: Do not respond to unsolicited messages requesting personal information
Check Local Lotteries: Research legitimate lotteries in Greenville to avoid scams
Report Scams: Inform authorities about any suspicious emails or contacts

Scammers pose as charities to solicit donations.

Reputable Charities: Donate to well-known, established charities
Verify Charity Information: Research charities online and confirm their legitimacy
Secure Payment Methods: Use secure payment methods to avoid fraud

Scammers sell fake or overpriced items at flea markets.

Haggle Prices: Negotiate prices to ensure fair deals
Check Items Carefully: Inspect items for quality and authenticity before purchasing
Stick with Trusted Vendors: Establish relationships with reliable vendors to minimize risk

Scammers set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots to steal your information.

Secure Connections: Use a VPN or cellular data when connecting to public Wi-Fi
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid banking, shopping, or other sensitive activities on public Wi-Fi
Check Wi-Fi Names: Verify the legitimacy of Wi-Fi networks before connecting

Scammers overcharge for taxi rides or use fraudulent meters.

Scammers offer fake or subpar accommodations on Airbnb.

Scammers offer cars with hidden damages or inflated prices.

Check Rental Conditions: Review rental agreements carefully before signing
Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the car for damages before driving off
Reliable Companies: Choose well-established rental companies with good reputations

Scammers sell fake or overpriced concert tickets.

Official Ticketing Sites: Purchase tickets directly from the venue or authorized sites
Check for Duplicate Tickets: Inspect tickets for unusual characteristics or inconsistencies
Verify Event Information: Research concert details to ensure legitimacy

Scammers sell rooms that do not exist or are in poor condition.

Verified Bookings: Book through established hotel chains with positive reviews
Inspect Rooms Upon Arrival: Examine rooms for quality and cleanliness before settling in
Contact Hotel Directly: Communicate with hotel staff to verify room availability

Scammers use high-pressure sales tactics for timeshares.

Research Timeshare Companies: Investigate the company's reputation and track record
Avoid High-Pressure Sales: Decline offers if you feel pressured or uncomfortable
Check Contract Details: Thoroughly review contract terms before committing