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

1. Longzhou Night Market Scam Alert

Avoid overpriced or counterfeit items at the bustling night market. Be cautious of pushy vendors.

Price Comparison: Compare prices with other vendors before buying
Vendor Reputation: Avoid isolated, pushy vendors and choose established, trusted ones
Bargaining Skills: Haggle for fair prices to avoid overpayment

Ensure taxi drivers use the meter and don't overcharge. Be cautious of drivers who refuse to turn on the meter.

Meter Usage: Insist that the taxi driver uses the meter
Registered Taxi: Make sure the taxi is properly registered and licensed
Payment Method: Use prepaid taxis or payment apps for a more transparent transaction

Avoid unlicensed tour guides who may lead you to scammy attractions or overcharge.

Guide Licensing: Check for a valid tour guide license
Tour Operator Verification: Book tours through reputable, licensed tour operators
Attraction Research: Research attractions beforehand to ensure they are legitimate

Be aware of counterfeit Chinese currency in circulation. Check bills for security features.

Security Features: Examine the bill for holograms, watermarks and raised text
Bank Verification: Verify bills with local banks if there's any doubt
Cash Exchange Safety: Exchange large amounts of money in banks or authorized exchange centers

Avoid ATMs that look tampered with or in secluded areas. Be cautious of card skimming devices.

Protect your personal information while using internet cafes. Be cautious of suspicious or unfamiliar software.

Password Security: Avoid saving passwords on public computers
Software Inspection: Inspect software for any suspicious activity before use
Account Activity Monitoring: Regularly check account activity for unauthorized access

Avoid low-priced accommodations offering luxurious amenities that may be fraudulent.

Reviews and Ratings: Check reviews, ratings and photos of the accommodation online
Location Verification: Verify the location and distance to major attractions
Booking Platform Reputation: Book through reputable online travel agencies

Avoid street food that looks undercooked or suspicious. Be cautious of pushy vendors.

Food Preparation: Observe the vendor's hygiene and food preparation practices
Location: Avoid street food stands near waste bins or in dirty areas
Customer Feedback: Listen to feedback from other customers before buying

Avoid ticket scalpers who may sell counterfeit or overpriced tickets.

Official Box Office: Purchase tickets from the official box office or authorized vendors
Ticket Price Comparison: Compare ticket prices with other customers before buying
Security Features: Inspect tickets for security features such as holograms or watermarks

Avoid overpriced bicycle rentals with damaged or missing parts.

Price Comparison: Compare prices with other bike rental services
Condition Inspection: Inspect the bicycle for any damage or missing parts before renting
Return Policy: Check the return policy and deposit requirements

Avoid unofficial SIM card vendors who may sell faulty or overpriced cards.

Official Retailer: Purchase SIM cards from official retailers or authorized agents
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other customers before buying
Customer Service Availability: Ensure customer service is available for assistance and support

Avoid fake charities or scammers posing as charity collectors.

Reputable Charity Organizations: Donate to well-known, reputable charity organizations
Licensing and Permits: Check for valid licensing and collection permits
Transparency: Ensure the organization is transparent about how funds are used

Avoid overpriced souvenir shops with no competition nearby.

Be aware of tourist-friendly police who may extort money or offer 'help' for a fee.

Official Uniform and Identification: Check if the officer is wearing an official uniform and has proper identification
Legitimate Police Business: Ensure that the officer has a legitimate reason for stopping or assisting you
Report Unauthorized Approaches: Report any unauthorized police approaches to your hotel or embassy

Avoid rickshaw pullers who may overcharge or take longer routes.

Price Negotiation: Negotiate a fair price before starting the ride
Route Inspection: Inspect the route and ask for shorter alternatives
Safety Measures: Ensure the rickshaw is equipped with safety measures like a seatbelt