
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kermānshāh, Iran
1. Bazaar Grand Scam
Overpricing of goods in bustling markets like the Bazar-e Shahzadeh Hossein. Avoid by knowing fair prices.
- Knowledgeable Shopkeepers: Asking local shopkeepers about fair prices can help you avoid overpaying.
- Negotiating Skills: Haggling and negotiating the price is a common practice in Iranian bazaars.
- Avoiding Distractions: Stay focused when shopping to avoid being distracted by scammers trying to overcharge you.
2. Taxi Scam
Unfair or inflated pricing from taxis around city attractions like Taq-e Bostan. Use registered cabs or negotiate prices.
- Registered Taxis: Only use taxis with visible registration numbers and a meter.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Try to avoid peak travel hours when prices might be inflated.
- Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate the price before starting your journey.
3. Fake Guide Scam
Unlicensed guides offering services at historic sites like Kart-e Solaiman. Check for official badges or permits.
- Official Badge Verification: Ask to see an official guide's badge and permit before hiring their services.
- Research Reputable Guides: Do some research about reputable guides in Kermanshah before your trip.
- Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations of good and trustworthy guides.
4. Counterfeit Currency Scam
Fake Iranian Rials being passed off as real at money exchanges around Javadieh Square. Check bills carefully.
- Check Bills Carefully: Inspect your bills for signs of counterfeiting such as poor quality or misaligned features.
- Use Reputable Exchange Offices: Only exchange money at reputable banks, exchange offices, or hotels.
- Monitor Your Transactions: Keep track of your transactions and always count the exchanged bills to ensure accuracy.
5. Food Poisoning Scam
Contaminated food at tourist restaurants near Ganj Nameh Inscription. Stick to well-known establishments.
- Well-Known Restaurants: Avoid eating at restaurants that are not popular or well-reviewed.
- Street Food Precautions: Be cautious when consuming street food, especially if it's not cooked in front of you.
- Proper Food Storage: Check that the food is stored properly to reduce chances of contamination.
6. Overcharging at Hotels
Hotels around Bisotun Inscription may charge excessive prices for services. Research hotel prices beforehand.
- Research Hotel Prices: Compare hotel prices online to find the best deals.
- Ask for Price Lists: Always ask for price lists upfront to avoid any unexpected charges.
- Negotiate Prices: Haggle and negotiate prices before agreeing to any services or accommodations.
7. Fake Souvenirs Scam
Fake souvenirs being sold at tourist shops near Behistun Relief. Look for authenticity seals or certificates.
- Authenticity Seals: Check for official seals or certificates that guarantee the authenticity of souvenirs.
- Reputable Shops: Only buy from reputable shops that have good reviews and offer a warranty.
- Knowledgeable Sellers: Ask knowledgeable sellers about the history and origins of souvenirs before purchasing.
8. Gold Jewelry Scam
Overpriced or fake gold jewelry being sold around Pol-e Dokhtar. Check for hallmark authentication.
- Hallmark Authentication: Look for the hallmark of the jeweler's guild or official authentication marks.
- Check Purity Levels: Ask about the purity levels of gold jewelry before purchasing to avoid fakes.
- Reputable Jewelers: Only buy from reputable jewelers with good reviews and customer testimonials.
9. Transportation Overcharging Scam
Bus drivers charging excessive fares for long-distance trips from Kermanshah to other cities. Always check the ticket price before boarding.
- Check Ticket Prices: Ask for the ticket prices before getting on the bus to avoid overcharges.
- Reputable Bus Companies: Research and only use reputable bus companies with good reviews and safety records.
- Avoid Peak Hours: Try to avoid peak travel hours when prices might be inflated.
10. Car Rental Scam
Renting a car with hidden charges or damaged vehicles around Kermanshah. Always check the rental agreement and vehicle thoroughly.
- Thoroughly Check Vehicle: Inspect the vehicle for any damages before signing the rental agreement.
- Understand Rental Agreement: Read and understand the rental agreement carefully to avoid hidden charges or fees.
- Reputable Car Rental Companies: Only rent cars from reputable companies with good reviews and customer testimonials.
11. Friendly Scammer
Individuals pretending to be friendly tourists or locals trying to gain your trust in Kermanshah. Be cautious and vigilant.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
- Don't Share Personal Information: Never share personal information with strangers, especially financial details or passwords.
- Stay Vigilant: Always stay vigilant and be wary of anyone who seems overly friendly or tries to help you unnecessarily.
12. Currency Exchange Scam
Unfair exchange rates at currency exchange offices near Anahita Temple. Compare rates before exchanging money.
- Compare Rates: Compare exchange rates offered by different providers to get a fair deal.
- Avoid Exchange Offices Near Tourist Attractions: Exchange money in banks or official exchange offices, not near tourist attractions.
- Check for Official Seals: Ensure that the currency exchange office has an official seal or license showing they are authorized to operate.
13. Hotel Room Scam
Unfair pricing or poor conditions at hotels near Bisotun Inscription. Research hotel reviews and prices before booking.
- Research Hotel Reviews: Read online reviews of hotels to get an idea of the quality of service and rooms.
- Compare Hotel Prices: Check multiple websites for hotel prices to find the best deal.
- Check Room Conditions: Inspect the room conditions before agreeing to stay at a hotel.
14. Tour Guides with Hidden Agenda
Tour guides offering services around Kermanshah with hidden intentions. Research guides and their itineraries thoroughly.
- Research Tour Guides: Read reviews of tour guides to get an idea of their reputation and service quality.
- Check Guide's Itinerary: Ask for the guide's itinerary and ensure that it covers all the places you want to visit.
- Negotiate upfront: Discuss and agree on prices, inclusions, and exclusions with your tour guide before starting the tour.
15. Shady ATMs
ATMs around Kermanshah that may have skimming devices or charge excessive fees. Use ATMs in banks or trusted locations.
- Use Bank ATMs: Prefer to use ATMs located inside banks for added security.
- Avoid Outside ATMs: Do not use outside ATMs, especially those that look suspicious or poorly maintained.
- Monitor Transactions: Keep track of your transactions and report any unusual activity immediately.