Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kaduna, Kaduna, Nigeria

Kaduna, Nigeria, Kaduna, Local Insights & Practical Info, Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kaduna, Kaduna, Nigeria

1. Gold Scam

Fraudsters offer large sums of gold for a small upfront payment. Once paid, the 'gold' never materializes.
  • Unexpected Offer: Be wary of unsolicited offers, especially those involving large sums of money.
  • Payment Upfront: Avoid making payments before verifying the legitimacy of the offer.
  • Unknown Associates: Be cautious when dealing with strangers, especially if they claim to be government officials.

2. Transport Scam

Drivers overcharge for rides or take longer routes. Sometimes, the vehicle breaks down en route and 'assistants' demand more money.
  • Fixed Rates: Ask for fixed rates before starting your journey.
  • Registered Taxis: Use registered taxis or ride-hailing services whenever possible.
  • Travel during Daylight: Try to travel during daylight hours, if possible.

3. Currency Exchange Scam

Fraudsters offer poor exchange rates or provide fake currency. Some may claim you owe them money after the exchange.
  • Licensed Exchange Centers: Exchange money at licensed centers and avoid street vendors.
  • Check Rates Online: Compare the offered rate with the prevailing market rates online.
  • Secure Transactions: Only exchange money in secure and well-lit areas, preferably during daylight hours.

4. Mobile Phone Scam

Thieves steal phones or sell fake devices claiming they are original.
  • Purchase from Reputable Stores: Buy phones from reputable stores and avoid street vendors.
  • Check Serial Numbers: Inspect the serial number on your phone for authenticity.
  • Security Apps: Install security apps to protect your data and track your phone in case of theft.

5. Begging Scam

Beggars may pretend to be disabled or in need. Some may follow you and demand money later.
  • Donate to Reputable Charities: Donate to reputable charities instead of giving money directly.
  • Avoid Alone Areas: Avoid secluded areas, especially at night.
  • Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and avoid anyone who seems suspicious.

6. Fake Police Scam

Police officers may claim you've committed a crime and demand money. Real police will never ask for money.
  • Know Real Emergency Numbers: Memorize the real emergency numbers (112, 999, or 199) in case of trouble.
  • Police Uniform Check: Check for proper police uniform and identification.
  • Avoid Alone Areas: Stay in well-lit, populated areas whenever possible.

7. Fake Guide Scam

Tour guides may ask for extra fees or take you to shops where they receive commission.
  • Book with Reputable Agencies: Book tours through reputable travel agencies.
  • Check Credentials: Ask for credentials and check reviews before hiring a guide.
  • Stick to the Plan: Discuss and agree on the tour plan beforehand.

8. ATM Scam

Skimmers are attached to ATMs to steal card information. Some may pretend to assist you and withdraw money instead.
  • Use Well-lit, Busy ATMs: Use well-lit, busy ATMs located in secure areas.
  • Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your other hand while entering your PIN.
  • Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions.

9. Overpriced Food Scam

Restaurants may overcharge tourists or serve small portions. Some may add extra charges without your knowledge.
  • Ask for Prices Before Ordering: Always ask for prices before ordering.
  • Stick to Familiar Places: Stick to restaurants you're familiar with, or research local food prices online.
  • Check the Bill Carefully: Check the bill carefully for any unexpected charges.

10. Hotel Room Scam

Rooms may be overpriced or of lower quality than advertised. Some hotels may charge extra for services not agreed upon.
  • Book with Reputable Chains: Book rooms through reputable hotel chains.
  • Check Prices Online: Check room prices online to ensure they are reasonable.
  • Read Reviews: Read reviews from other travelers before booking a hotel.

11. Fake Ticket Scam

Tickets for events or attractions may be fake or overpriced. Some ticket sellers may claim there are no more tickets available.
  • Buy from Reputable Outlets: Buy tickets from reputable outlets or directly from the venue if possible.
  • Check Prices Online: Check ticket prices online to ensure they are reasonable.
  • Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying tickets from street vendors.

12. Internet Café Scam

Cybercafes may install keyloggers to steal your information or charge excessively for internet usage.
  • Use Secure Wi-Fi: Only use secure Wi-Fi networks, preferably those provided by reputable hotels or cafes.
  • Protect Your Device: Install antivirus software on your device before using public computers.
  • Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your accounts for unauthorized transactions.

13. Lodging Scam

Landlords may rent properties in poor condition or overcharge. Some may demand extra fees without your knowledge.
  • Book with Reputable Agencies: Book accommodations through reputable real estate agencies.
  • Inspect the Property: Inspect the property before signing any agreements.
  • Check Prices Online: Check rental prices online to ensure they are reasonable.

14. Market Scam

Sellers may offer fake goods or overcharge. Some may use weights and measures incorrectly.
  • Research Prices: Research prices for common items before shopping.
  • Check Quality: Inspect goods carefully before purchasing.
  • Haggle Prices: Haggle prices to ensure you're getting a fair deal.

15. Car Hire Scam

Car rental agencies may overcharge or provide cars in poor condition. Some may charge for damage that existed prior to rental.
  • Book with Reputable Companies: Book car rentals through reputable companies.
  • Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before signing any agreements.
  • Check Prices Online: Check car rental prices online to ensure they are reasonable.