Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Maringá, Paraná, Brazil

1. Fake Taxi Drivers

Watch out for unlicensed taxi drivers who may overcharge or lead you to unsafe areas. Use only official radio taxis.

Official Radio Taxis: These are licensed, reliable and can be easily identified by their cars' signs.
Avoid Unlicensed Drivers: Never accept rides from unmarked or private vehicles.
Monitor Fare: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Avoid buying counterfeit goods from street vendors. They may be of low quality or even dangerous.

Shop at Reputable Stores: Purchase items only from trusted shops and malls.
Check for Quality: Look for signs of poor craftsmanship or unusual low prices.
Be Wary of Bargains: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Watch for people loitering around ATMs. They may use devices to steal your card information.

Use Well-lit and Monitored ATMs: Opt for ATMs located inside banks, malls or well-lit areas.
Cover PIN: Always shield your PIN from prying eyes.
Check Your Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for unauthorized transactions.

Be cautious of individuals claiming to be police officers asking for personal belongings or money. Legitimate authorities will never do this.

Ask for Identification: Insist on seeing identification before cooperating.
Go to the Police Station: If in doubt, go to a nearby police station for assistance.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.

Beware of pickpockets on public buses. Keep your belongings close and be vigilant.

Secure Your Belongings: Use bags with zippers or slash-proof materials.
Stay Aware: Keep your eyes on your belongings and be aware of people around you.
Use Bus Storage: If available, use the storage compartments under seats.

Avoid eating from unhygienic street food vendors to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Choose Busy Stalls: Opt for busy street food stalls as they usually follow safety standards.
Check Hygiene: Look for clean surroundings, fresh ingredients and gloves when handling food.
Avoid Rare Meats: Steer clear of dishes that include raw or undercooked meats.

Watch for unfavorable exchange rates when exchanging money. Use official exchange offices or banks instead.

Use Official Exchange Offices: Look for offices with clear signage and located in busy areas.
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates with other establishments before making a transaction.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may offer unofficial and less favorable exchange rates.

Be cautious of tour guides who claim to be official but are not. Book tours through reputable agencies.

Book Tours Through Reputable Agencies: Research and choose recognized tour operators.
Check for Licenses: Ensure the guide has a valid license and proper identification.
Avoid Private Guides: Avoid guides who approach you randomly on the street.

Book accommodation through trusted websites or agencies to avoid poor quality lodging and scams.

Use Trusted Websites: Research and book through well-known online travel agencies.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to gauge the quality of the accommodation.
Visit in Person: If possible, visit the accommodation before finalizing your reservation.

Watch out for overpriced drinks or watered-down beverages. Stick to reputable bars and establishments.

Choose Reputable Bars: Opt for bars with good reviews and a lively atmosphere.
Check Prices: Ask for price lists or compare prices with other establishments.
Monitor Your Drinks: Keep an eye on your drinks to ensure they aren't being diluted.

Be cautious of overpriced or fake items at carnivals. Stick to reputable vendors and areas.

Choose Reputable Vendors: Look for busy, well-organized stalls with quality goods.
Check Prices: Compare prices with other vendors before making a purchase.
Avoid Dark Alleys: Stay in well-lit, busy areas to avoid potential scams and dangers.

Watch out for overpriced souvenirs. Negotiate prices and compare with other shops.

Negotiate Prices: Always try to negotiate a lower price, especially for expensive items.
Compare Prices: Check prices at multiple shops before making a purchase.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may offer overpriced or low-quality souvenirs.

Avoid participating in unsupervised water activities. Stick to reputable companies for safety and fun.

Choose Reputable Companies: Research and choose companies with good reviews, safety gear, and life jackets.
Check Safety Measures: Ensure the company follows safety regulations and has trained staff.
Avoid Unsupervised Activities: Stay away from unattended watercrafts or dangerous areas.

Avoid massage parlors without proper licenses. They may offer unhygienic or unsafe services.

Check for Licenses: Ensure the establishment has a valid license and displays it prominently.
Avoid Secretive Parlors: Stay away from parlors that are secretive about their services or location.
Check for Hygiene: Look for clean surroundings, fresh linens, and properly sanitized equipment.

Be cautious of tours that offer unbelievable discounts or hidden fees. Book through reputable agencies.

Book Through Reputable Agencies: Research and choose recognized tour operators.
Check for Hidden Fees: Ensure there are no hidden costs or fees before finalizing your booking.
Avoid Overly Cheap Tours: If a tour is significantly cheaper than others, it may be a scam.