Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kampala, Uganda
1. Owino Market Scam
Beware of pickpocketing and overpriced goods at Owino Market. Always negotiate prices before buying.
- Negotiation: Know the market price of items to avoid overpaying.
- Awareness: Stay vigilant and keep belongings secure in crowded areas.
- Escort: Consider shopping with a trusted companion or local guide.
2. Taxi Scam in Taxifori
Watch out for overcharging or getting lost in the labyrinthine Taxifori. Use registered taxi services or bargain before starting your journey.
- Bargaining: Negotiate a fare before getting into the taxi.
- Registered Services: Use services of registered taxi companies.
- Awareness: Stay alert to any unusual behavior from drivers.
3. Boda Boda Overcharging
Beware of overpricing by boda bodas (motorcycle taxis). Agree on a fare before starting your journey.
- Negotiation: Ask around for the average fare to avoid overpaying.
- Registration: Use registered boda bodas with helmets and number plates.
- Safety: Always wear a helmet and use a secure luggage carrier if carrying bags.
4. Fake Currency Exchange Scams
Stay vigilant when exchanging money at unofficial locations. Use authorized exchange offices for best rates and safety.
- Research: Find official exchange offices beforehand.
- Awareness: Be cautious of individuals offering to exchange money informally.
- Security: Keep your exchanged money in a secure location.
5. Credit Card Fraud at ATMs
Secure your PIN and be aware of skimming devices on ATMs. Use ATMs in well-lit and busy areas.
- PIN Protection: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
- Awareness: Check ATMs for any suspicious devices before using them.
- Location: Use ATMs in well-lit and busy areas whenever possible.
6. Fraudulent Tour Guides
Be wary of unlicensed tour guides who may overcharge or mislead. Request for a licensed guide from your hotel or trusted local source.
- Licensing: Ask the guide to show their license before hiring them.
- Recommendation: Get recommendations from hotel staff or reliable online sources.
- Negotiation: Negotiate the tour price before beginning your trip.
7. Counterfeit Goods in Shopping Malls
Watch out for counterfeit goods in some shopping malls. Stick to reputable stores or marketplaces.
- Awareness: Look for signs of low-quality or missing branding on goods.
- Reputation: Research stores beforehand to ensure they have good reputations.
- Marketplaces: Consider buying from reputable marketplaces like Owino Market.
8. Street Food Scams
Avoid eating at unattended food stalls. Opt for busy and popular street food vendors.
- Busy Vendors: Choose vendors with a steady stream of customers.
- Food Quality: Check for fresh ingredients and clean cooking conditions.
- Local Recommendations: Ask locals for their favorite street food spots.
9. Fake Friend Scams
Be cautious of overly friendly strangers who may offer help or invite you somewhere. Maintain a healthy level of skepticism and avoid isolating yourself.
- Skepticism: Ask around if someone seems too friendly or offers unusual help.
- Group Activities: Join group activities or tours for safety and companionship.
- Self-Defense: Carry a whistle or personal alarm device for emergencies.
10. Sim Swapping Scams
Guard your SIM card and phone number. Be cautious of phone-related scams involving SIM swapping or account takeovers.
- Security Measures: Set up strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and security questions on your devices.
- Awareness: Monitor your phone bill for any unusual activity.
- Carrier Support: Contact your carrier if you notice anything suspicious.
11. Ticket Scams at Venues
Purchase tickets from authorized outlets to avoid overpriced or fake tickets. Check for venue websites or reliable ticket vendors beforehand.
- Research: Find official ticketing outlets before visiting venues.
- Awareness: Be cautious of ticket sellers outside venues, as they may be selling fake or overpriced tickets.
- Online Ticketing: Consider buying tickets online when available.
12. Fraudulent Banks and Money Transfers
Use authorized banks or reliable money transfer services. Be cautious of unsolicited offers for quick cash transfers.
- Research: Find reputable banks and money transfer services beforehand.
- Awareness: Be cautious of unusual offers or requests related to your finances.
- Secure Transfers: Use secure methods for money transfers, such as bank transfers or credit cards.
13. Airport Scams and Pickpocketing
Stay vigilant in airports, keep belongings secure, and be aware of pickpockets. Use secured luggage lockers if needed.
- Awareness: Stay alert for any suspicious behavior, especially in crowded areas.
- Secure Belongings: Keep your belongings close and secure them when possible.
- Luggage Security: Use luggage lockers if you have valuable items or need to store bags while exploring the city.
14. Phishing Emails and Websites
Be cautious of phishing emails asking for personal information. Never click on suspicious links or provide sensitive data online.
- Awareness: Recognize common signs of phishing attempts, such as urgent requests or misspellings.
- Security Software: Install and regularly update security software on your devices.
- Email Verification: Verify the sender's email address before responding or providing any information.
15. Excess Baggage Fees at the Airport
Check airline baggage policies before traveling to avoid unexpected excess baggage fees. Pack efficiently and weigh your bags carefully.
- Research: Find your airline's baggage policy online.
- Packing Efficiency: Pack efficiently to avoid excess baggage fees.
- Weight Check: Weigh your bags at home to ensure they meet airline weight limits.