Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Makhachkala, Russia

1. Makhachkala Central Market Scam

Watch out for overpriced goods or fake currency exchanges at the bustling market.

Know Your Currency: Familiarize yourself with local currency before shopping.
Bargain Hard: Never accept the first price offered, always bargain to get a fair deal.
Stick Together: Travel in groups and stay aware of your surroundings.

Avoid being overcharged by taxi drivers who take longer routes or inflate prices.

Use Metered Taxis: Always choose metered taxis and agree on the destination before starting the ride.
Negotiate Price: Negotiate a fixed price with taxi drivers before getting into the vehicle.
Use Apps: Utilize taxi apps for safer and more affordable rides.

Be wary of unofficial tour guides who offer their services on the street.

Choose Reputable Companies: Book tours through reputable travel agencies or tourism boards.
Ask for Credentials: Request to see identification and credentials from any guide before hiring them.
Research Beforehand: Research the sights you want to visit and plan your tour accordingly.

Beware of counterfeit goods being sold in shops or on the street.

Shop at Reputable Stores: Purchase items from reputable stores with good reviews.
Check Quality: Inspect the quality of goods before making a purchase.
Ask Locals: Ask locals for advice on where to buy authentic items.

Be aware of fake police officers who may attempt to extort money or valuables.

Carry Copies of ID: Carry copies of your passport and visa instead of originals.
Stay in Well-lit Areas: Avoid dimly lit or isolated areas, especially at night.
Know Emergency Numbers: Memorize emergency numbers and know how to contact local authorities.

Be cautious when interacting with street performers who may try to distract you while others pickpocket.

Keep Belongings Secure: Keep your belongings close and use a secure bag or pouch.
Avoid Distractions: Stay alert and don't get distracted while in crowded areas.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities if you witness any suspicious activity.

Be aware of ATMs that may have skimming devices or fake screens.

Choose Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable establishments.
Cover Input Keys: Cover the keypad with your other hand while entering your PIN.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account for any unauthorized transactions.

Watch out for restaurants that inflate prices or add unnecessary charges.

Research Prices: Research average meal prices before dining at local restaurants.
Check Bills Carefully: Inspect your bill carefully for any unusual charges or additions.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for all transactions and keep it as proof.

Be wary of rental vehicles that have hidden damage or inflated prices.

Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before accepting it.
Check Rental Contract: Read and understand the rental contract carefully.
Research Rental Companies: Choose reputable rental companies with good reviews.

Protect your personal information when using public computers or Wi-Fi.

Use a VPN: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to protect your online activity.
Avoid Banking Transactions: Avoid making sensitive transactions on public computers.
Create Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts.

Watch out for overpriced or low-quality accommodation offers.

Book Through Reputable Sites: Book through reputable accommodation booking sites.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before booking.
Inspect the Property: Inspect the property upon arrival and verify its condition.

Beware of ticket scalpers who may sell fake or overpriced tickets.

Purchase from Official Sources: Buy tickets from official sources only.
Check Ticket Authenticity: Inspect the ticket for any unusual features or irregularities.
Ask Locals: Ask locals about where to purchase tickets for events.

Be cautious when donating to street charities as some may be fake or exploitative.

Research Local Charities: Research legitimate local charities before making a donation.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for your donation and check if it's tax-deductible.
Be Aware of Emotional Manipulation: Avoid charities that use emotional manipulation to solicit donations.

Be wary of unlicensed tourist guides who may provide inaccurate information.

Book through Reputable Companies: Book guided tours through reputable travel agencies or tourism boards.
Ask for Credentials: Request to see identification and credentials from any guide before hiring them.
Research Beforehand: Research the sights you want to visit and plan your tour accordingly.

Be aware of money exchanges that provide less currency than agreed.

Use Reputable Exchange Offices: Exchange money at reputable exchange offices or banks.
Count Your Money Carefully: Count your exchanged money carefully to ensure the correct amount.
Ask for Receipts: Request a receipt for every exchange and keep it as proof.