Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

1. Rickshaw Fare Scam

Avoid overpriced rickshaw fares by agreeing on a price before starting the journey.

Price Negotiation: Always negotiate the fare before you get into the rickshaw.
Local Rates: Ask a local for the standard fare to your destination.
Fare Gauge: Some rickshaws in Mardan have fare gauges; make sure it's set correctly.

Stick with licensed tour guides and always verify their credentials before hiring.

Licensed Guides: Always request a licensed guide from the Tourism Information Center.
Verification: Check for an official ID badge and ask to see their license.
Reviews and Recommendations: Use online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations to find a reliable guide.

Stick to reputable exchange centers for the best rates and fewer risks.

Reputable Centers: Exchange money at banks or authorized foreign exchange dealers.
Check Rates: Compare rates between different centers before making an exchange.
Keep Small Amounts: Carry smaller amounts for daily expenses to minimize potential loss.

Haggle prices at markets and shops for fair deals.

Market Haggling: Negotiate prices in local bazaars to get a better deal.
Shop Bargains: Look for shops offering discounts or sales on products.
Price Comparison: Compare prices between different shops to find the best deal.

Purchase tickets from authorized ticket vendors for events and attractions.

Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets at the official box office or event venue.
Verify Tickets: Inspect your ticket for holograms, security features, and correct information.
Event Organizer Websites: Purchase tickets from the event organizer's official website if available.

Check your bill carefully for discrepancies and make sure it matches what you ordered.

Order Accuracy: Double-check your order with the waitstaff before eating.
Bill Inspection: Inspect your bill for extra items or charges you didn't authorize.
Ask for Receipt: Request a receipt to help verify the accuracy of the bill.

Reserve your accommodations in advance and double-check availability upon arrival.

Advance Reservations: Book accommodations well in advance to avoid overbooking issues.
Confirm Arrival: Contact your accommodation provider to confirm availability upon arrival.
Check-In Procedure: Arrive at the accommodation during check-in hours to secure a room.

Purchase tickets from authorized transportation providers only.

Authorized Providers: Buy tickets at the official bus or train station.
Verify Ticket: Check your ticket for authentic holograms, security features, and correct information.
Avoid Street Vendors: Never buy transportation tickets from street vendors or unauthorized agents.

Keep your belongings secure during transportation and stay aware of your surroundings.

Secure Valuables: Use a bag or backpack with lockable zippers to secure your valuables.
Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid falling asleep during transportation.
Use a Travel Pouch: Store your valuables in a pouch worn underneath clothing to deter theft.

Always verify the identity of helpers claiming to be officials before giving any personal information.

Verify Identity: Ask for official identification from anyone claiming to be an officer or representative.
Don't Share Information: Never share personal information, such as your passport number or credit card details.
Stay Calm and Call Embassy: Stay calm, contact your embassy for assistance, and never leave with strangers.

Use secure devices or apps to protect sensitive information when using public computers.

Secure Devices: Bring a USB drive with a pre-installed VPN for internet access.
Password Protection: Use strong, unique passwords for all online accounts.
Monitor Activity: Check your accounts regularly for any unauthorized activity.

Ask permission before taking photographs of people, especially children.

Permission: Always ask for consent before photographing someone.
Respect Cultural Norms: Be aware of local cultural norms and customs regarding photography.
Bribe Request: Refuse requests for bribes or payments in exchange for photographs.

Buy local products from reputable stores to avoid purchasing counterfeits.

Reputable Stores: Purchase local goods at well-established, reliable stores.
Check Quality: Inspect the product for poor workmanship or substandard materials.
Ask Locals: Ask locals about reputable stores to buy genuine local products.

Donate to well-established, registered charities or organizations.

Registered Charities: Support charities that are officially registered with the government.
Avoid Street Appeals: Do not give money to individuals soliciting on the street or in public areas.
Research Before Donating: Take time to research charities and their causes before making a donation.

Always ask for official identification from law enforcement officers.

Verify Identity: Ask for official identification from the police officer.
Do Not Give Information: Refuse to provide any personal information, especially your passport number.
Stay Calm and Contact Embassy: Stay calm, contact your embassy for assistance, and never leave with strangers.