Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Khowrhesht, Qazvīn, Iran

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overcharging and unofficial taxis by agreeing on a price before starting the journey.

Fixed Price: Agreeing on a fixed price prevents any unexpected charges.
Registered Taxi: Always take registered taxis to ensure your safety and legal protection.
Knowledgeable: Be knowledgeable about the normal prices to avoid being overcharged.

Inspect banknotes for inconsistencies such as blank spots or poor print quality.

Feel and Touch: Counterfeit bills may feel different from real ones, so inspect them carefully.
Light Test: Hold the note up to the light to check for watermarks and other security features.
ATM Security: Use ATMs located in secure areas or inside banks to minimize the risk of skimming.

Bargain with shopkeepers to get a fair price for souvenirs.

Research and book tour guides through reputable agencies.

Agency Verification: Always check if the guide is registered with a reputable agency.
Guide Reviews: Read reviews from previous clients to ensure a quality service.
Tour Itinerary: Ask about the tour itinerary and discuss any changes beforehand.

Respectfully decline offers from unofficial guides inside mosques.

Knowledgeable Guide: Official guides are knowledgeable about the history and culture of the mosque.
Respectful Interaction: Decline offers politely to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Donation Boxes: Use donation boxes or envelopes provided by the mosque instead of giving money directly.

Ask for menu prices before ordering to avoid unexpected charges.

Menu Prices: Always ask for the menu and check prices before ordering.
Local Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals to find good, reasonably-priced restaurants.
Average Prices: Know the average prices of meals in Khowrhesht to avoid being overcharged.

Purchase sim cards from official retailers or authorized vendors.

Official Retailer: Buying a sim card from an official retailer ensures it is genuine.
Proper Documentation: Ensure the vendor requests proper identification and provides receipts for transactions.
Internet Access: Check internet access before purchasing to ensure it works properly.

Ask for identification from law enforcement officers and report any suspicions.

Identification Check: Always ask police officers for proper identification.
Suspicious Behavior: Report any suspicious behavior or actions to local authorities.
Crowded Places: Stay aware in crowded places and avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

Ask for a certificate of authenticity or appraisal when buying gold and jewelry.

Certificate of Authenticity: Ensure the item comes with a certificate to guarantee its authenticity.
Appraisal Service: Use a reputable appraisal service for professional evaluation.
Gold Purity: Ask about the gold purity and know the difference between 24k, 18k, and 14k gold.

Book accommodation in advance through reputable platforms or agencies.

Reputable Platforms: Use popular and reliable booking websites to find accommodation.
Advance Booking: Book your accommodation in advance to secure the best rates.
Location: Choose accommodations that are centrally located for easy access to attractions.

Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange offices.

Authorized Offices: Exchange currency at authorized banks and exchange offices.
Avoid Street Exchange: Never exchange money on the street to avoid scams and unfair rates.
Rates Comparison: Compare exchange rates at different banks or offices before making a decision.

Choose street food vendors that are popular and busy.

Popular Vendors: Avoid empty street food stalls, choose busy ones instead.
Hygiene Standards: Ensure the vendor maintains proper hygiene standards.
Local Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals for safe and delicious street food.

Avoid giving money directly to beggars. Instead, consider donating to reputable organizations.

Donations to Reputable Organizations: Donate to established charities or organizations that help the needy.
Avoid Direct Donation: Avoid giving money directly to beggars to avoid exploitation.
Local Knowledge: Research local customs and laws regarding begging before donating.

Rent cars from reputable agencies, check the vehicle for damages before driving.

Reputable Agencies: Rent cars only from established and reputable car rental agencies.
Damage Inspection: Inspect the vehicle for damages before accepting it.
Insurance Coverage: Ensure that the rental includes insurance coverage.

Research service prices beforehand and negotiate with service providers.

Price Research: Always research the price of local services beforehand.
Negotiation Skills: Develop negotiation skills to get better prices for services.
Ask Locals: Ask locals about fair prices for local services in the area.