Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Malanje, Malanje, Angola

All Topics about Malanje All Cities in Angola

1. Counterfeit Currency Scams

Be wary of receiving fake Angolan Kwanzas; check for security features and authenticity.

Security Features: Know the security features of genuine notes, such as watermarks, holograms, and textured feel.
Currency Exchange Locations: Exchange money at banks or authorized exchange centers to minimize risk.
Cautious Spending: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and only spend what you need.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer services at lower prices but could lead to fraudulent activities.

Official Licensing: Ask for an official guide's license and verify it with local authorities.
Recommendations: Choose guides recommended by reputable travel agencies or previous tourists.
Research: Research the attractions you plan to visit, so you know what to expect and can avoid scams.

Some landlords may try to overcharge for accommodations, especially in tourist areas.

Average Prices: Research average accommodation prices in Malanje before booking.
Negotiation: Negotiate prices for better deals, especially when booking longer stays.
Online Reviews: Read online reviews of accommodations to ensure quality and reasonable pricing.

Taxi drivers may try to overcharge or take longer routes; use only authorized taxi services.

Authorized Taxis: Use only licensed taxis with identifiable markers, such as a company logo or official badge.
Pre-negotiated Prices: Negotiate prices before starting the journey to avoid overcharging.
Bus Travel: Travel by bus when possible; it is often cheaper and safer than hiring a taxi.

Some shop owners may sell low-quality goods or inflate prices; be cautious when shopping.

Reputable Shops: Shop at reputable stores and markets, preferably those recommended by locals.
Price Comparison: Compare prices of goods across different shops to avoid overpaying.
Bargaining Skills: Develop bargaining skills to negotiate better prices.

Some bars or restaurants may use fake change or add unexpected charges; pay attention to your bills.

Accurate Change: Always check the change you receive against the bill.
Credit Card Transactions: When possible, pay with credit or debit cards to minimize cash transactions.
Local Prices: Ask for local prices before ordering to avoid being overcharged as a tourist.

Some ticket sellers may offer fake or overpriced tickets for attractions; buy tickets from official sources only.

Official Ticket Sellers: Only purchase tickets from authorized ticket vendors, usually located at the attraction itself.
Advance Booking: Book tickets in advance to avoid running into scalpers.
Ticket Prices: Verify the ticket prices for each attraction online before purchasing.

Some ATMs may be rigged with skimmers to steal your card information; use only secure ATMs.

Secure ATMs: Use ATMs located at banks, shopping centers, or inside buildings for added security.
Card Monitoring: Regularly monitor your account for unusual activity and report any suspicious transactions immediately.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keyloggers from capturing your information.

Scammers may call pretending to be from a bank or government agency to ask for personal information; hang up and verify their identity.

Verification Process: Banks and government agencies will never ask for sensitive information over the phone.
Call Back Policy: If unsure, hang up and call the institution back using the official phone number on your statement or their website.
Phone Number Verification: Only use phones with security features like SIM card PINs to minimize risks.

Some street performers may pressure you for money or distract others pickpocketing; be cautious and don't overpay.

Set Performance Prices: Ask the performer about their prices beforehand to avoid overpaying.
Cautious Giving: Only give small change or tip as a token of appreciation, rather than large sums.
Avoid Distractions: Remain aware of your surroundings to avoid distractions and potential pickpocketing.

Locals pretending to be friendly may offer help but lead you into scamming situations; be cautious when interacting with strangers.

Caution with Strangers: Be wary of overly friendly locals who try to offer help or invite you to their homes.
Verification of Information: Verify any information they provide, such as directions, with other sources before following their advice.
Stick to Known Areas: Avoid wandering into unfamiliar areas and stick to well-populated, safe locations.

Scammers may offer to help find your lost item in exchange for a reward, but take it back and demand more; keep your belongings secure.

Secure Belongings: Always keep a close eye on your valuables and avoid showing them openly in public.
Report Lost Items: Report lost items to local authorities or the hotel front desk immediately.
Caution with Strangers: Be cautious when accepting help from strangers, especially when your belongings are involved.

Some charities may misuse donations or not be legitimate; research before giving.

Legitimate Charities: Research the charity's reputation and legitimacy online before donating.
Government-registered Charities: Only donate to charities registered with the Angolan government.
Secure Donation Methods: Use secure methods like credit or debit cards for donations instead of cash.

Scammers may try to overcharge for car rentals or claim hidden damages; inspect the vehicle carefully before driving.

Rental Company Reputation: Choose a reputable rental company with good reviews and licensing.
Pre-inspection: Inspect the car for damages before accepting it to avoid being charged for pre-existing issues.
Rental Contract: Thoroughly read and understand the rental contract, including fees, insurance, and liability clauses.

Some internet cafés may install keyloggers or other malware on computers to steal your data; use only secure computers.

Secure Computers: Choose computers with security features like antivirus software.
Cautious Data Sharing: Avoid sharing sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details, online.
Use a VPN: Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your data and privacy while browsing.