Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Laohekou, Hubei, China

1. Counterfeit Taxi Scams

Avoid unmarked or private taxis. Use official taxi stands to ensure a licensed driver.

Official Stands: Look for authorized taxi stands with clearly marked signs.
Meter Use: Legitimate taxis should always use meters and refuse any fixed rates.
Driver Uniform: Official drivers wear uniforms with the company logo and identification.

Use established exchange centers, not individuals offering to exchange currency on the street.

Established Centers: Opt for official exchange centers with multiple locations.
Check Exchange Rates: Always compare the offered rate to current market rates and reputable online sources.
Secure Transactions: Ensure the exchange takes place in a secure environment, such as inside an office or bank.

Research admission fees for attractions ahead of time to avoid overpaying.

Advance Research: Gather information about the typical costs of tourist attractions beforehand.
Local Prices: Ask locals for guidance on fair pricing or consult travel guides and websites.
Group Discounts: Inquire about group discounts if traveling with others.

Bargain aggressively and be cautious of vendors offering items at unusually low prices.

Knowledgeable Vendors: Ask locals for advice on reputable vendors in the market.
Inspect Quality: Check items carefully before purchase and test them where possible.
Negotiate Prices: Bargain with vendors to get a fair price for the item.

Avoid restaurants near tourist attractions and opt for local eateries instead.

Local Restaurants: Choose eateries frequented by locals for authentic, affordable meals.
Menu Prices: Check the menu prices before choosing a restaurant and compare them to other establishments.
Street Food: Try delicious, affordable street food options when available.

Purchase sim cards at authorized retailers or the official telecom company store.

Authorized Retailers: Look for stores displaying the official logo of the telecom company.
Data Packages: Ensure that data packages are included in your sim card purchase.
Support Services: Ask about customer support services and their availability.

Book tours through reputable travel agencies or online platforms.

Reputable Agencies: Choose established, well-reviewed travel agencies for tours.
Online Research: Research the tour operator's reputation and customer reviews online.
Contract Details: Review the contract before finalizing your booking, ensuring all details are included.

Avoid unmarked or private rickshaws. Use official rickshaw stands to ensure a licensed driver.

Official Stands: Look for authorized rickshaw stands with clearly marked signs.
Driver Uniform: Official drivers wear uniforms with the company logo and identification.
Meter Use: Legitimate rickshaws should always use meters and refuse any fixed rates.

Be wary of beggars who may be part of organized scams. Donate to reputable charities instead.

Organized Scams: Beggars working in groups or with children are often part of an organized scheme.
Reputable Charities: Donate to established, reputable charities for your contribution to make a difference.
Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding giving to beggars.

Stay vigilant and keep a close eye on your belongings while shopping.

Secure Shopping Centers: Shop at busy, well-monitored locations to reduce the risk of theft.
Keep Belongings Close: Keep your personal belongings close and avoid leaving them unattended.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform store staff if you witness any suspicious activity or feel unsafe.

Avoid giving money to street performers. Instead, tip them with food or small items.

Food and Small Items: Offer food or small items as a token of appreciation instead of cash.
Organized Scams: Performers who are part of an organized scheme will often aggressively solicit for money.
Local Customs: Research local customs regarding giving to street performers to avoid causing offense.

Use secure Wi-Fi networks and be cautious of suspicious activity.

Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Connect to password-protected Wi-Fi networks or use a VPN.
Data Security: Avoid accessing sensitive data while using public internet.
Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious activity or unusual behavior to the cafe staff.

Read contracts carefully and ask about all fees before booking a hotel room.

Contract Details: Review the contract before finalizing your booking, ensuring all details are included.
Ask About Fees: Ask hotel staff about any additional charges, such as resort fees or service charges.
Negotiate Rates: Negotiate the rate upfront to avoid unexpected costs.

Purchase tickets from authorized outlets only. Avoid buying from individuals or street vendors.

Authorized Outlets: Buy tickets from official venues, ticket booths, or their websites.
Check Ticket Validity: Ensure the ticket has the venue's logo and hologram to verify its authenticity.
Avoid Street Vendors: Refrain from purchasing tickets from street vendors or individuals.

Research the festival's customs and traditions before attending to avoid misunderstandings.

Customs and Traditions: Understand the local customs, rules, and traditions of the festival.
Official Merchandise: Purchase festival merchandise from authorized vendors only.
Avoid Suspicious Activity: Be cautious of vendors and individuals who engage in suspicious activity or aggressive sales tactics.