Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Kowloon, Hong Kong

All Topics about Kowloon All Cities in Hong Kong

1. Street Taxis Scam

Unlicensed taxis offering tourist rides at inflated prices; may refuse to use meter. Avoid unmarked or poorly maintained taxis.

Recognize Markings: Legitimate taxis should have a red license plate and logo on the taxi.
Meter Usage: Always ensure the meter is used and the fare is reasonable.
Avoid Late Night Rides: Avoid taking street taxis after dark, especially alone.

Persons posing as tour guides to offer services for a fee. Check identification and ensure they are licensed.

Check Licensing: Ask for their ID and verify it with the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Research Tour Operators: Book tours from reputable agencies to avoid scams.
Avoid Soliciting on Streets: Decline unsolicited offers of tour services on the street.

Sellers offering fake designer goods at bargain prices. Be cautious when shopping in local markets.

Beware of Bargains: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Check Labels and Quality: Real designer goods will have high quality materials and proper labels.
Shop Reputable Stores: Buy from authorized retailers or department stores to ensure authenticity.

Scammers offer goldfish in a small bag and charge exorbitant prices. Refuse if asked to pay on the street.

Refuse Street Sales: Never buy from street vendors; take it to a licensed pet store for inspection.
Check the Health of Fish: Healthy goldfish should swim vigorously and have clear eyes.
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices for goldfish or pets.

Vendors may overcharge tourists at night markets. Compare prices with nearby stalls.

Compare Prices: Always compare prices with other vendors before buying.
Haggle Prices: Negotiate for a lower price, especially when buying multiple items.
Avoid Eating at Stalls: Eat at food courts or reputable restaurants to avoid food contamination.

Criminals use devices on ATMs to steal card information. Use only ATMs located inside banks or malls.

Choose Safe Locations: Use ATMs located in secure and well-lit areas.
Check ATM for Tampering: Inspect the ATM for unusual attachments or signs of tampering before using it.
Protect Your Pin: Cover your hand while entering your PIN and be aware of anyone watching you.

Sellers offering low-quality jade at inflated prices. Research genuine jade before purchasing.

Know the Types of Jade: There are several types of jade, such as Nephrite and Jadeite, each with unique characteristics.
Check Certification: Ask for a certificate or appraisal from a reputable source.
Buy from Reputable Dealers: Purchase jade from licensed dealers or jewelry stores.

Scammers selling fake pearls at inflated prices. Research genuine pearls before purchasing.

Know the Types of Pearls: There are several types of pearls, such as Akoya, Freshwater, and South Sea pearls.
Check Luster and Surface: Genuine pearls should have a consistent luster and smooth surface.
Buy from Reputable Dealers: Purchase pearls from licensed dealers or jewelry stores.

Computers at internet cafes may have keyloggers installed to steal personal information. Use a VPN or secure connection.

Use a VPN: Always use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing sensitive data.
Choose Reputable Internet Cafes: Select internet cafes that are busy and well-maintained.
Avoid Using Credit Cards: Use cash or alternative payment methods when accessing sensitive information.

Rental shops may not return your deposit or provide damaged bikes. Check the bike and deposit before renting.

Check Bike Condition: Inspect the bike for any damage before accepting it.
Take Photos of Bike and Receipt: Take photos of the bike, receipt, and deposit before leaving the shop.
Ask for a Contact Number: Request the rental company's contact information in case of issues.

Fortune tellers may make false predictions or ask for money for protection. Research the fortune teller before visiting.

Research Fortune Tellers: Check reviews and recommendations from trusted sources.
Avoid Excessive Payment Requests: Do not pay excessive amounts of money for predictions or protection.
Beware of Personal Information Requests: Do not share personal information with fortune tellers.

Some massage parlors may offer sexual services. Avoid seedy or poorly maintained establishments.

Choose Reputable Massage Parlors: Select massage parlors located in busy and well-maintained areas.
Ask for Licensing Information: Request to see the establishment's business license.
Avoid Late Night Visits: Do not visit massage parlors after dark, especially alone.

Performers may ask for donations and then demand money. Observe performers before giving tips.

Observe the Performance: Watch the performance before deciding to give a tip.
Avoid Donating Large Amounts: Only donate small amounts of money.
Check Local Customs: Research local customs regarding tipping street performers.

Games offering large payouts with low odds. Avoid participating in street gambling games.

Avoid Street Gambling: Never participate in street gambling games.
Know Local Laws: Research the local laws regarding gambling.
Avoid Scenarios with Multiple Players: Do not participate in games involving multiple players.

Musicians or performers may demand money for their performance. Observe before giving donations.

Observe the Performance: Watch the performance before deciding to give a tip.
Avoid Donating Large Amounts: Only donate small amounts of money.
Check Local Customs: Research local customs regarding tipping buskers.