Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Hsinchu, Hsinchu, Taiwan

1. Taiwan Mobile Shop Scams

Avoid overpriced SIM cards and unwanted services by visiting authorized Taiwan Mobile shops.

Authorized Shops: Ensure service at official Taiwan Mobile stores to avoid scams.
Check Packages: Carefully review SIM card packages before purchasing.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt after making a purchase.

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by using the Uber app or negotiating fare before riding.

Avoid buying counterfeit goods at night markets by checking quality and trusting reliable sellers.

Quality Check: Inspect items carefully for signs of low-quality materials or poor craftsmanship.
Reliable Sellers: Find trusted sellers who offer return policies or guarantees.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on reputable night market stalls.

Protect yourself from ATM skimming by using well-lit machines and checking for any unusual attachments.

Well-Lit Machines: Use ATMs located in well-lit and populated areas.
Check for Attachments: Examine the machine for any unusual add-ons or modifications.
Cover Screen: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN for added security.

Avoid fraudulent tour guides by booking through reputable agencies and researching guides online.

Reputable Agencies: Book tours with established and well-reviewed travel companies.
Online Research: Research guides on review websites or social media for positive feedback.
Ask for Licenses: Request to see a tour guide's license and credentials before hiring them.

Avoid fake accommodation listings by booking through trusted platforms like Airbnb or hotels.

Trusted Platforms: Book accommodations on popular and secure travel websites.
Reviews: Check reviews from previous guests for insights into the accommodation.
Contact Host: Communicate with the host to confirm details and ask questions about the listing.

Enjoy safe street food in Hsinchu by visiting busy vendors with clean surroundings.

Busy Vendors: Choose popular and well-attended street food stalls.
Clean Surroundings: Select vendors with a clean and hygienic workspace.
Avoid Unusual Items: Stick to popular dishes from reliable street food stalls.

Avoid overpriced temples and museums by researching admission fees online or asking locals.

Online Research: Research admission prices for popular attractions before visiting.
Ask Locals: Ask locals about the standard admission fees for specific temples and museums.
Beware of Additional Fees: Be cautious of hidden or additional fees when purchasing tickets.

Avoid scams at night markets by sticking to well-established stalls and negotiating prices.

Well-Established Stalls: Shop at reputable and popular night market stalls.
Negotiate Prices: Bargain with sellers for better prices on items.
Avoid Suspicious Behavior: Avoid vendors displaying unusual behavior or refusing to negotiate.

Protect yourself from credit card fraud by using secure ATMs and keeping a close eye on transactions.

Secure ATMs: Use ATMs located in well-lit, populated areas for added security.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly check your account balance and monitor transactions online.
Cover Card: Cover the card entry pad when entering your PIN for added protection.

Avoid unwanted help or offers in public places by politely declining and continuing on your way.

Decline Offers: Gently refuse any unsolicited assistance or suggestions.
Trust Your Instincts: Use your intuition to determine if a situation seems suspicious.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-populated and well-lit areas when traveling alone.

Avoid unsafe taxis by using reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps like Uber.

Reputable Companies: Choose taxi services with a good reputation and safety record.
Check Car Interior: Inspect the taxi's interior for seat belts, functioning windows, and working lights.
Secure Payment Options: Use secure payment methods like credit cards or ride-hailing apps.

Avoid fake Wi-Fi hotspots by connecting to trusted networks and using a VPN.

Trusted Networks: Connect to Wi-Fi networks provided by your hotel or reputable locations.
Use a VPN: Use a virtual private network (VPN) for added security when accessing sensitive information online.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid conducting financial transactions or accessing personal accounts over unsecured Wi-Fi networks.

Protect yourself from pickpocketing by keeping your belongings close and aware of your surroundings.

Secure Belongings: Keep bags zipped and wallets in front pockets.
Stay Aware: Remain alert to your surroundings and any unusual behavior around you.
Use a Money Belt: Consider using a money belt or hidden pocket for important items.

Avoid unwanted attention at night by dressing modestly and staying in well-lit areas.

Modest Dress: Wear modest clothing to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Stick to well-lit and populated areas at night.
Trust Your Instincts: Use your intuition to determine if a situation seems suspicious.