Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Higashi-ōsaka, Ōsaka, Japan

All Topics about Higashi-ōsaka All Cities in Japan

1. Taxi Scam

Dishonest taxi drivers might take longer routes to overcharge unsuspecting tourists.

Fixed Rates: Know the fixed rates from airports or popular destinations to avoid surprises.
Taxi Meter: Always ensure the taxi meter is turned on and running during your ride.
Trusted Companies: Choose reputable companies for a hassle-free travel experience.

Criminals may use fake yen bills to cheat tourists. Be cautious when receiving change or large sums of money.

Check Bill Authenticity: Learn how to spot genuine Japanese currency.
Use ATMs: Get cash from reputable ATMs when needed.
Exchange at Banks: Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange centers for peace of mind.

Some souvenir shops may overcharge tourists, taking advantage of unfamiliarity with local prices.

Research Prices: Check online for average prices before shopping.
Negotiate Prices: Don't be afraid to negotiate prices when purchasing souvenirs.
Avoid Tourist Areas: Look for local shops outside of touristy areas for better deals.

Renting a room or hotel that doesn't exist or is in poor condition can happen. Research your accommodation thoroughly.

Book with Reputable Sites: Use trusted booking sites to ensure the property's legitimacy.
Read Reviews: Check reviews from previous guests before making a reservation.
Contact Property Owner: Contact the property owner for confirmation and clarification if needed.

Some street food vendors may use cheaper or inferior ingredients, or even sell expired food.

Choose Busy Stalls: Look for popular stalls with long lines and busy atmosphere.
Check Food Quality: Examine the food before eating, especially when it comes to ingredients like seafood.
Street Food Festivals: Attend street food festivals organized by reliable sources for safety and quality assurance.

Some restaurants might add hidden charges or serve lower-quality food to unsuspecting tourists.

Check Menu Prices: Compare menu prices with other restaurants in the area before ordering.
Ask for Itemized Bill: Request an itemized bill to avoid any hidden charges.
Stick with Reputable Restaurants: Choose well-established restaurants with good reviews for a reliable dining experience.

Pickpockets may target tourists in crowded areas like train stations or markets.

Secure Personal Belongings: Keep your belongings close and avoid showing valuables openly.
Use a Money Belt: Carry essentials like cash and ID in a hidden money belt or pouch.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions that may lead to theft.

Some internet cafés might install keyloggers or charge high prices for slow connections.

Use Reputable Internet Cafes: Choose internet cafes with good reviews and a clean, welcoming atmosphere.
Check for Keyloggers: Use antivirus software to check for keyloggers before typing sensitive information.
Beware of Public Computers: Avoid using public computers to access sensitive data like bank accounts or personal emails.

Tour guides without proper licenses might lead tourists to scams or unsafe areas.

Check for Licenses: Ask tour guides for their licenses and verify their legitimacy.
Book with Reputable Agencies: Book tours through established, reputable agencies.
Read Reviews: Check reviews from previous tour participants before booking.

Some attractions might be fake or offer counterfeit tickets to unsuspecting tourists.

Research Attractions: Learn about the popular attractions in Higashi-ōsaka and their authenticity.
Check for Offical Ticket Sources: Purchase tickets only from official sources or at the attraction's box office.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff about recommended attractions and ticket sources.

Scammers might exploit the language barrier to trick tourists.

Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Learn basic Japanese phrases to communicate effectively.
Use Translation Apps: Use translation apps for help when needed.
Stay with Trusted Groups: Travel in groups or with a trusted guide to avoid potential scams.

Fraudsters may pose as police officers or emergency personnel to extort money.

Check for Uniforms and ID: Ask for identification before providing personal information or money.
Contact Local Embassy: In case of an emergency, contact your local embassy for assistance.
Stay Alert and Aware: Remain vigilant in public places to avoid potential scams.

Skimmers may be attached to ATMs or card readers to steal your credit card information.

Use Secure Machines: Choose machines with a secure, tamper-resistant design.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your credit card account for suspicious activity.

Scammers might pose as charity collectors to steal money or personal information.

Research Charities: Research charities before donating to ensure their legitimacy.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Donate through official channels or websites instead of giving on the street.
Ask for ID and Information: Request identification and information about the charity before donating.

Fraudulent WiFi hotspots may be set up to steal personal information or install malware.

Avoid Free, Unsecured Networks: Avoid using unsecured public networks for sensitive activities.
Use a VPN: Use a VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your data.
Avoid Sharing Passwords: Never share your passwords with others, even if they claim to be from the WiFi provider.