Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Krasnoyarsk, Russia

1. Counterfeit Souvenir Shops Scam

Beware of low-quality souvenirs sold at overpriced shops around Stolchnaya Square.

Price Check: Compare prices with other shops in the area.
Authenticity: Look for official seals or certificates of authenticity.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on where to buy genuine souvenirs.

Some exchange booths at the airport or train station may offer unfavorable exchange rates.

Multiple Quotes: Ask for multiple quotes before exchanging your money.
Reputable Exchange Points: Use reputable exchange points like banks or authorized exchange booths.
Online Research: Research average exchange rates before your trip to negotiate better deals.

Some taxi drivers might overcharge tourists by taking longer routes or charging excessive prices.

Unlicensed tour guides might offer cheap tours but lead you to overpriced stores or fake attractions.

Licensing Check: Always confirm the guide's licensing and affiliations.
Itinerary Planning: Plan your itinerary beforehand to avoid being led astray.
Online Research: Research about reputable tour companies in Krasnoyarsk.

Petty theft is common in crowded places like the Central Market or Victory Square.

Valuables Security: Keep your valuables secure and hidden.
Awareness: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance to cover theft incidents.

Some restaurants might overcharge tourists in popular areas like Ulitsa Karla Marksa.

Menu Comparison: Compare prices with other nearby restaurants.
Local Restaurants: Try local, less touristy restaurants for more affordable meals.
Transparent Billing: Check the bill carefully before paying to ensure no extra charges.

Some accommodation listings might be fake or overpriced, especially on online booking platforms.

Verification: Verify the property's existence and legitimacy before booking.
Location: Choose accommodations located centrally for convenience.
Reputable Booking Platforms: Book through reputable platforms with customer protection policies.

Internet cafes might install keyloggers or spyware to steal your personal information.

Scammers might pose as charity collectors to solicit money.

Verification: Verify the authenticity of charities by researching their reputations.
Caution: Exercise caution and don't share sensitive information with strangers.
Official Documentation: Ask for official documentation verifying the charity's legitimacy.

Performers might pressure you to donate after their street performance.

Voluntary Donations: Only donate if you wish and not under any pressure.
Awareness: Be aware of their performances as some might be misleading or scripted.
Legitimate Performances: Support local, legitimate performances to encourage cultural preservation.

Buying tickets for popular events like concerts or sports matches from unauthorized sellers could result in invalid tickets.

Authorized Sellers: Buy tickets only from authorized sellers or the venue box office.
Event Verification: Verify event details, dates, and locations to avoid scams.
Online Research: Research about common ticket scams in Krasnoyarsk.

Skimmers can be attached to ATMs to steal your card information.

Safe ATMs: Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas or inside banks.
Card Monitoring: Monitor your account transactions regularly for any unusual activity.
ATM Safety Measures: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.

Scammers posing as police officers might ask for bribes or try to steal your belongings.

Legitimate Identification: Ask for their identification and contact local authorities if needed.
Safety in Numbers: Stay in groups, especially at night, to minimize the risk of scams.
Emergency Contacts: Keep emergency contacts and important documents safely hidden on you.

Friendly locals might offer help but later ask for money or lead you into scams.

Caution: Exercise caution when accepting help from strangers.
Local Knowledge: Ask locals for advice on how to avoid scams and find reliable help.
Common Sense: Trust your instincts and use common sense when interacting with strangers.

Some vendors might try to sell you overpriced items or refuse to negotiate fair prices.

Knowledge of Local Prices: Research local prices before your trip.
Negotiation Skills: Develop negotiation skills to get fair prices.
Friendly but Firm Approach: Be friendly yet firm when negotiating prices without appearing too pushy.