Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Islamabad, Pakistan

All Topics about Islamabad All Cities in Pakistan

1. F-8 Markaz Islamabad Scam

Avoid fake shops selling overpriced items near F-8 Markaz. Be aware of aggressive vendors.

Know the Price: Research the price beforehand to avoid overpaying.
Avoid Aggressive Vendors: Steer clear of aggressive vendors trying to pressure you into buying.
Shop Around: Always shop around for the best deals and compare prices.

Be wary of taxi drivers who inflate fares or take an incorrect route.

Use a Trusted Service: Choose reputable taxi services like Careem or Uber.
Agree on Price Beforehand: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Use GPS: Insist on using GPS for navigation to avoid detours and additional charges.

Avoid dealing with fake Pakistani Rupees. Be vigilant when receiving change.

Check the Authenticity: Familiarize yourself with genuine currency features.
Count Your Change: Always count your change to make sure it's correct.
Use ATMs: Withdraw cash from ATMs at reputable banks instead of street vendors.

Avoid unofficial tour guides claiming to be affiliated with government agencies.

Check for Official Identification: Request identification from the guide and verify their affiliation.
Research Authorized Tour Operators: Choose reputable tour operators registered with the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC).
Negotiate Rates Beforehand: Always negotiate and agree on rates before starting your tour.

Avoid food stalls that appear dirty or have a low hygiene standard.

Look for Hygienic Conditions: Choose food stalls with good cleanliness and proper food handling practices.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations of popular and delicious food spots.
Stick to Branded Restaurants: Dine at reputable restaurants with a brand name and good reviews.

Avoid purchasing SIM cards from street vendors. Stick to authorized stores.

Go to an Authorized Store: Buy your SIM card at an authorized store of the telecom provider.
Verify IMEI Number: Ensure the phone is not stolen by checking its IMEI number.
Register SIM Card: Register your SIM card to prevent misuse and maintain communication services.

Be aware of overcharging or dishonest conduct on buses and rickshaws.

Know the Fare: Familiarize yourself with the correct fare for your route.
Use Prepaid Cards: Use prepaid cards to avoid overcharging and ensure you have exact change.
Sit Near the Driver: Sit near the driver for easier interaction and monitoring of fares.

Avoid hotels that overcharge or have poor service. Research before booking.

Research Reviews: Read online reviews to find a reputable and reasonably priced hotel.
Negotiate Rates: Always negotiate room rates and terms with the hotel before booking.
Check for Hidden Fees: Ask about any additional fees like service charges or taxes before booking.

Be cautious when buying souvenirs from street vendors. Negotiate prices and avoid overpaying.

Bargain Prices: Always bargain for lower prices at marketplaces like Sarafa Bazaar.
Check Quality: Inspect items carefully before purchasing to ensure their quality.
Buy from Authorized Shops: Choose authorized shops and stalls for purchasing souvenirs.

Avoid unfavorable exchange rates at money exchangers. Research beforehand.

Check Multiple Rates: Compare exchange rates offered by different providers to get the best deal.
Stick to Reputable Exchangers: Choose reliable money exchangers with good reviews and a long history.
Use ATMs for Smaller Amounts: Use ATMs for smaller amounts to avoid large exchange fees.

Avoid individuals pretending to be collecting for charity. Research legitimate organizations.

Research Charities: Look up well-known and reputable charities in Islamabad.
Ask for Proof of Affiliation: Request identification from charity collectors to verify their affiliation.
Donate Online or at the Charity Office: Donate online directly through the charity's official website or visit their office.

Protect your PIN and card when using ATMs. Be cautious of tampered machines.

Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to avoid keyloggers.
Check for Tampering: Inspect ATMs for unusual items, loose parts, or other signs of tampering before use.
Use Well-lit and Busy Locations: Choose well-lit areas with plenty of people around to avoid being targeted.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuable items. Stay aware of your surroundings.

Carry Essential Items Only: Limit the amount of cash, credit cards, and valuables you carry.
Keep Your Belongings Secure: Keep your belongings in a secure location like a zippered pouch or money belt.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Maintain awareness of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in deserted areas.

Avoid false offers of assistance at Islamabad International Airport. Be cautious of suspicious individuals.

Stay Near Information Desks: Remain near information desks for quick assistance if needed.
Avoid Unsolicited Assistance: Decline unsolicited offers of help and be wary of suspicious individuals.
Follow Airport Signs: Use airport signs and announcements to navigate the terminal effectively.

Avoid buying tickets from unauthorized vendors at monument sites. Use official ticket counters.

Buy Tickets at Official Counters: Purchase your ticket directly from the monument's official ticket counter.
Check for Authorized Vendors: Look for authorized vendors displaying official signs or uniforms.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt when purchasing tickets to avoid disputes later.