Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in London, Ontario, Canada
1. London Taxi Scam
Avoid fake taxis outside popular tourist spots. Always use licensed London cabs with a green roof sign.
- Recognizable Signs: London taxis have a green roof sign and a taxi light on top.
- Licensed Drivers: Always check for a valid license displayed in the vehicle.
- Fraudulent Claims: Be wary of taxi drivers claiming traffic or detour to increase fare.
2. Street Performer Scam
Some street performers may ask for money upfront before performing. Only tip after a good performance.
- Good Performance: Ensure the performer delivers as promised before giving any money.
- Busking Permit: Legitimate street performers should have a busking permit from the City of London.
- Aggressive Behavior: Be cautious if a performer becomes aggressive or insistent when asking for money.
3. Counterfeit Goods Market
Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods from unauthorized vendors. Support local businesses instead.
- Authenticity Guarantee: Legitimate stores offer authentic items with a guarantee.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices of goods to ensure they are reasonable and in line with market rates.
- Location: Avoid purchasing from street vendors outside authorized areas.
4. ATM Skimming Scam
Protect your card and pin by using ATMs inside banks or secure locations. Check for any suspicious devices before inserting your card.
- Secure Locations: ATMs located inside banks, shopping malls, or well-lit areas are generally safer.
- Suspicious Devices: Look for unusual card reader or pin pad sizes or attachments.
- Cover Your PIN: Always cover your pin while entering it to protect against shoulder surfing.
5. Fraudulent Wi-Fi Hotspots
Avoid using unsecured Wi-Fi hotspots as they may be used for data theft. Use a VPN or mobile hotspot if necessary.
- Secure Connections: Use a secure, password-protected Wi-Fi connection whenever possible.
- Data Sensitivity: Avoid logging into sensitive accounts on unsecured networks.
- Public Location: Be cautious when using Wi-Fi in public places like cafes or airports.
6. Pickpocketing at Popular Spots
Keep your belongings secure while visiting crowded tourist spots. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuable items.
- Secure Storage: Use a cross-body bag or secure pocket to keep your valuables safe.
- Avoid Distractions: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
- Valuable Items: Minimize the display of valuable items like jewelry or expensive electronics.
7. Bogus Tour Guides
Only use licensed tour guides and companies. Check for official badges, uniforms, or certificates.
- Licensed Guides: Legitimate tour guides have a valid license from the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario.
- Official Badges: Look for an official guide badge or identification card.
- Group Size and Trip Details: Be wary of small, last-minute tour groups that offer unusually low prices or rushed schedules.
8. Overcharging at Restaurants
Be aware of menu prices and ask for itemized bills to avoid overcharges. Check restaurant reviews before dining out.
- Menu Prices: Compare prices listed on the menu with what is charged.
- Itemized Bills: Ask for an itemized bill to ensure you're not being overcharged.
- Reputable Restaurants: Choose restaurants with positive reviews and a reputation for fair pricing.
9. Car Rental Scams
Rent cars only from reputable companies and check the vehicle thoroughly before driving off. Keep receipts for all transactions.
- Reputable Companies: Choose well-known, established car rental companies.
- Thorough Inspection: Inspect the vehicle for damages before signing any documents.
- Receipts and Contracts: Ensure you have all relevant receipts, contracts, and insurance documentation.
10. Accommodation Scams
Book accommodations through reputable sites or hotels directly. Check reviews and ensure the property is legitimately listed.
- Reputable Booking Sites: Use well-known accommodation booking sites with secure payment options.
- Direct Bookings: Book accommodations directly through the hotel's website or contact number.
- Property Legitimacy: Verify that the property is listed on reputable accommodation sites and has positive reviews.
11. Charity Scams
Only donate to recognized charities or official fundraising events. Be cautious of individuals soliciting for donations on the street.
- Recognized Charities: Donate to well-known, established charities with a proven track record.
- Official Fundraising Events: Attend official fundraising events or donate through their secure websites.
- Avoid Street Solicitation: Be cautious of individuals soliciting for donations on the street and always verify their affiliation.
12. Ticketing Scams
Purchase event tickets only from authorized vendors or the venue box office. Be wary of third-party resellers and online scams.
- Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets from authorized vendors such as the event website, box office, or local ticket outlets.
- Venue Box Office: Purchase tickets directly from the venue's box office when possible.
- Third-Party Resellers: Be cautious of third-party resellers, especially those offering significantly discounted tickets.
13. Cybercafe Scams
Avoid using cybercafes outside of popular tourist areas. Be cautious when using computers with sensitive information and use a VPN or secure connection.
- Secure Cybercafes: Choose cybercafes located in well-known tourist areas and equipped with secure connections.
- Computer Usage: Avoid using computers with sensitive information, as they may be compromised.
- Secure Connections: Use a VPN or secure connection when accessing personal or financial information on public computers.
14. Bogus Police Officers
Only comply with uniformed, legitimate police officers. Request identification and verify before providing any personal information.
- Uniformed Officers: Police officers are required to wear a uniform and carry an identification card.
- Request Identification: Ask for identification if approached by someone claiming to be a police officer.
- Verification: Contact the local police station or embassy to verify the officer's identity, if needed.
15. Unlicensed Money Changers
Avoid exchanging money with unauthorized vendors. Use reputable exchange offices or banks instead.
- Reputable Exchange Offices: Use established, licensed exchange offices with good reviews.
- Banks: Exchange money at banks during regular business hours.
- Official Rates: Be aware of the current exchange rates and compare them with those offered by vendors.