
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Jalingo, Taraba, Nigeria
1. Yola Automated Tellers (ATMs) Scams
Be wary of strangers offering assistance at ATMs. Watch for 'shoulder surfers' who may record your PIN. Avoid using ATMs in isolated areas.
- Avoid Isolated Areas: ATMs in crowded, well-lit locations are safer.
- Awareness of Surroundings: Stay alert for suspicious activities around the ATM.
- PIN Protection: Cover your PIN entry to prevent 'shoulder surfers'.
2. Transportation Overcharging Scams
Bargain with taxi drivers before starting the journey. Be cautious of drivers who refuse to use the meter.
- Bargain Before Ride: Negotiating the price before getting into the vehicle can prevent overcharging.
- Meter Usage: Insist on meter usage unless a fixed rate has been agreed upon.
- Avoiding Isolated Routes: Request well-known routes to your destination to avoid unnecessary detours.
3. Marketplace Counterfeit Goods Scams
Inspect items carefully before purchasing from street vendors. Check for poor quality or missing tags in electronics.
- Inspection: Thoroughly inspect goods before buying.
- Ask for Guarantees: Request guarantees or receipts, especially for expensive items.
- Buy from Reputable Shops: Purchase goods from well-known and reputable shops whenever possible.
4. Currency Exchange Scams
Exchange money only at authorized exchange bureaus or banks. Avoid exchanging currency on the street.
- Authorized Bureaus: Exchange currency only at authorized exchange bureaus and banks.
- Avoid Street Exchanges: Never exchange money on the street to prevent counterfeit notes.
- Check Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates before finalizing the transaction.
5. Dining & Drinks Overcharging Scams
Ask for itemized bills. Be cautious of items added without your knowledge.
- Itemized Bills: Ask for an itemized bill to verify charges.
- Check Bill Accuracy: Verify the accuracy of your bill before paying.
- Avoid Alone Dining: Dine with others or in well-populated areas to prevent overcharging.
6. Hotel Scams
Book hotels from reputable sources. Inspect the room for hidden charges before agreeing.
- Reputable Bookings: Book hotels only through trusted online platforms or travel agents.
- Room Inspection: Inspect the room for additional charges and hidden fees.
- Check Room Facilities: Ensure that the hotel provides necessary facilities as described online.
7. Sim Swapping Scams
Keep your SIM card secure. Be cautious of unsolicited calls requesting SIM information.
- SIM Security: Keep your SIM card in a safe place and avoid sharing its details.
- Caution with Calls: Ignore unsolicited calls asking for personal information.
- Verify Caller ID: Always verify the caller's identity before sharing sensitive information.
8. Internet Café Scams
Avoid leaving personal items unattended. Use secure networks for online transactions.
- Secure Networks: Only use secured Wi-Fi networks, especially for sensitive activities.
- Avoid Unattended Items: Keep your belongings close and never leave them unattended.
- Use Trusted Internet Cafés: Choose well-known and reputable internet cafes for safer browsing.
9. Tour Guide Scams
Research tour guides before hiring. Verify their credentials and agreements.
- Research Tour Guides: Check reviews, ratings, and recommendations when choosing a guide.
- Verify Credentials: Ask for proof of licensing and insurance before hiring a tour guide.
- Agree on Fees Upfront: Always agree on the fees, inclusions, and itinerary before starting the tour.
10. Fake Police Officers Scams
Stay calm if approached by someone claiming to be a police officer. Request identification and contact local authorities.
- Request Identification: Ask for proper identification before providing any information.
- Contact Local Authorities: If in doubt, contact the local police station for confirmation.
- Stay Calm and Cooperative: Remain calm and cooperative but avoid sharing sensitive information.
11. Charity Scams
Research charities before donating. Be cautious of individuals soliciting donations on the street.
- Research Charities: Check the charity's legitimacy and purpose before donating.
- Avoid Street Solicitations: Donate only to recognized charitable organizations.
- Secure Donation Methods: Use secure methods for donating, such as credit card or bank transfer.
12. Fraudulent Friend Requests Scams
Be cautious of friend requests from strangers. Never share sensitive information with unknown individuals.
- Caution with Strangers: Accept friend requests only from known contacts.
- Avoid Sharing Sensitive Info: Never share personal or financial information with strangers.
- Secure Social Media Settings: Set your social media privacy settings to protect your information.
13. Mobile Phone Scams
Protect your phone with a strong passcode. Be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages.
- Strong Passcode: Use a complex and unique passcode to secure your mobile device.
- Caution with Unsolicited Calls/Messages: Ignore calls or messages from unknown numbers.
- Install Security Apps: Install reliable antivirus and security apps on your device to protect against scams.
14. Accommodation Overbooking Scams
Confirm reservations with the hotel before arrival. Bring a printout of your booking confirmation.
- Booking Confirmation: Print out your booking confirmation and carry it with you.
- Confirm Reservation: Contact the hotel to confirm your reservation before arrival.
- Avoid Last-Minute Bookings: Book accommodations well in advance to avoid potential scams.
15. Beggar Scams
Be cautious of beggars who may use distractions to steal from you. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Avoid Carrying Large Amounts of Cash: Limit the amount of cash carried at a time.
- Stay Alert: Remain aware of your surroundings and the people around you.
- Donate Wisely: Donate to reputable charities rather than giving directly to beggars.