Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia

1. Tourist Trap Restaurants

Avoid overpriced restaurants near tourist attractions that may offer poor quality food.

Location: Restaurants near popular landmarks tend to be more expensive.
Menu Prices: High menu prices are a red flag for tourist traps.
Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations to find authentic, affordable restaurants.

Be wary of unofficial tour guides who approach you offering services.

Unlicensed Guides: Unofficial guides may not have the necessary knowledge or qualifications.
Overcharging: They might charge exorbitant fees for their services.
Language Barrier: Communication difficulties can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods from street vendors.

Low Prices: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Product Quality: Counterfeit goods are often poorly made and break easily.
Legal Consequences: Purchasing counterfeit items can lead to legal problems.

Be cautious when exchanging currency in unauthorized exchange centers.

Unlicensed Centers: Unauthorized exchange centers may give less money than agreed.
Poor Exchange Rates: Exchange rates offered by unauthorized centers are often unfavorable.
Reporting Scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to the authorities for future prevention.

Be aware of taxi drivers who may overcharge or take longer routes.

Meter Usage: Always ensure that the meter is turned on in taxis.
Fixed Prices: Agree on a fixed price before starting your journey.
Knowledgeable Drivers: Choose drivers who are knowledgeable about the city and can give advice.

Be careful when booking accommodations through unverified sources.

Unverified Listings: Listings on unverified websites may not exist or be overpriced.
Poor Conditions: Accommodations may have poor conditions than described.
Payment Issues: Problems with payment or reservation confirmation can occur.

Use only bank-operated ATMs to avoid skimming and card trapping.

Bank-Operated ATMs: ATMs operated by banks are less likely to have skimming devices.
Location: Avoid using ATMs in isolated or dimly lit areas.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers.

Be cautious when donating to street performers as they may demand more than agreed.

Performance Quality: Evaluate the quality of the performance before donating.
Donation Amount: Avoid giving large amounts without assessing the situation.
Verification: Check with local authorities or reputable organizations about legitimate performances.

Be aware of sim card vendors who may charge excessively for services.

Unauthorized Vendors: Purchase sim cards only from authorized dealers.
High Prices: Check prices for sim cards online or at official stores before purchasing.
Activation Issues: Make sure the sim card is activated correctly before leaving the vendor.

Be aware of overpriced sightseeing tours that may not provide the promised services.

High Prices: Compare prices with other tour operators for the same service.
Quality of Service: Check reviews and ask for recommendations from locals or previous customers.
Refund Policy: Ensure there is a clear refund policy in case of dissatisfaction.

Be cautious when donating to charities as some may be fraudulent.

Unfamiliar Charities: Research charities before donating to ensure they are legitimate.
Donation Receipts: Always request a receipt for your donation.
Confirm with Local Authorities: Contact local authorities or reputable organizations to confirm the legitimacy of charities.

Be aware of taxi drivers who may attempt to share a ride with strangers and overcharge.

Safety Concerns: Never accept rides from strangers, even if the driver claims to be sharing.
Overcharging: Agree on a price before starting your journey, and ensure the meter is running.
Legitimate Sharing Services: Use legitimate taxi-sharing services to avoid scams.

Be cautious when interacting with buskers who may demand more than agreed.

Performance Quality: Evaluate the quality of the performance before donating.
Donation Amount: Avoid giving large amounts without assessing the situation.
Verification: Check with local authorities or reputable organizations about legitimate performances.

Avoid massage parlors that are unlicensed as they may use unhygienic practices and overcharge.

Be cautious of staged accidents involving pedestrians or vehicles that aim to extort money.

Avoid Eye Contact: Do not make eye contact with people involved in the accident.
Report Incidents: If you witness a staged accident, report it to local authorities.
Stay Calm and Aware: Remain calm and avoid participating in the situation to prevent any potential scams.