Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Jiangshan, Zhejiang, China

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid inflated taxi fares by agreeing on a price before starting the journey.

Unfair Fares: Some drivers may overcharge tourists
Language Barrier: Communication difficulties can make it hard to negotiate fair fares.
Unmetered Taxis: Some taxis do not have meters, increasing the chances of overcharging.

Be cautious when shopping for branded items at night markets or street vendors.

Low Quality: Counterfeits may break easily or not last long.
Health Risks: Fake items, especially food products, can be harmful to your health.
Legal Issues: Possessing counterfeit goods may lead to legal troubles.

Always book guided tours through reputable agencies and check for licenses.

Unauthorized Guides: Some guides may not have the necessary permits.
Misinformation: False information may be given to steer you towards specific shops or services.
Overcharging: Guides may demand excessive fees for their services.

Use ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas to minimize the risk of skimming devices.

Skimming Devices: Criminals can install devices that capture your card data.
Card Cloning: Once your data is captured, criminals can clone your card and withdraw your money.
Identity Theft: Skimming can lead to identity theft, allowing criminals to access your financial information.

Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Distractions: Criminals may create distractions to steal from you.
Pockets and Bags: Zippered pockets or bags are recommended for secure storage of valuables.
Valuable Items: Avoid displaying valuable items like smartphones, cameras, and wallets.

Use reputable internet cafes or your mobile hotspot for sensitive transactions.

Keyloggers: Keyloggers can record your passwords and personal information.
Virus-infected Computers: Infected computers can steal your sensitive data.
Unsecured Networks: Open networks make it easier for hackers to intercept your information.

Bargain for souvenirs and compare prices at multiple shops before purchasing.

Price Gouging: Some shop owners may overprice souvenirs for tourists.
Counterfeit Souvenirs: Be cautious of fake or low-quality souvenirs.
Lack of Bargaining Experience: Inexperienced bargainers may end up paying more than necessary.

Be cautious when crossing the road and avoid accepting help from strangers offering assistance.

Staged Collisions: Some people may intentionally bump into you, then demand compensation.
False Witnesses: Accomplices may claim to have witnessed the incident to increase your liability.
Exaggerated Damages: Damages may be exaggerated to demand higher compensation.

Avoid restaurants with no customers and check for proper food safety certifications.

Ask for item prices before ordering and check the menu carefully.

Menu Mispricing: Some restaurants may price items differently than what's listed.
Hidden Fees: Restaurants may add service charges or other fees to the bill.
Language Barrier: Communication difficulties can lead to misunderstandings about prices.

Research galleries and artists before visiting or purchase through reputable dealers.

Compare prices from multiple rental companies and read the contract carefully.

Hidden Charges: Additional fees, such as insurance or fuel costs, may be added.
Damage Claims: Rental companies may claim damage that wasn't present before rental.
Misleading Information: Some companies may misrepresent the quality or condition of the car.

Purchase tickets from official outlets or reputable tour operators.

Counterfeit Tickets: Fake tickets may not grant you access to attractions.
Overpriced Tickets: Tickets may be overpriced, taking advantage of tourists.
Ticket Scammers: Unscrupulous individuals may sell fake or overpriced tickets.

Be cautious of strangers who offer friendship and then ask for money or favors.

Friendship Bait: Individuals may pretend to be friendly to gain your trust.
Money Requests: Scammers may ask for money for various reasons, such as medical emergencies or travel costs.
Identity Theft: Scammers may use the friendship to gain access to your personal information.

Donate to reputable charities or organizations and avoid giving money to individuals on the street.

False Charities: Scammers may create fake charities to collect donations.
Misused Funds: Donations may not go towards the intended purpose.
Personal Safety: Giving money to individuals on the street can put you at risk of robbery or harassment.