Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
1. Taxi Scams
Avoid overcharging or being taken to unwanted destinations by unlicensed taxi drivers. Always use reputable companies like Taxi MSI or EasyTaxi.
- Reputation: Choose recognized and licensed taxi services
- Prepaid Fare: Avoid payment issues by agreeing on a fare before starting the journey
- Destination Awareness: Know your destination and verify it with the driver to avoid unwanted detours
2. Bogus Tour Operators
Stay away from tour companies offering deals that seem too good to be true or asking for payment upfront. Choose established and reputable tour operators.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews online before booking tours
- Avoid Upfront Payments: Never pay in full before the tour starts
- Check for License: Ensure the operator has a valid tourist license from the Colombian government
3. Counterfeit Money
Be aware of fake bills; Colombian pesos often have slight differences in their texture and appearance. Exchange money only at authorized exchange houses.
- Texture Detection: Feel the texture of each bill to ensure authenticity
- Visit Authorized Exchange Houses: Exchange money only at authorized banks or exchange houses
- Compare Serial Numbers: Check that the serial numbers on your bills are not duplicates
4. Drug Dealing
Stay away from areas known for drug dealing. In Medellín, this includes Comuna 13 and certain parts of El Poblado.
- Avoid Risky Areas: Avoid visiting areas with a reputation for drug trafficking
- Travel in Groups: Always travel in groups, especially at night and in risky areas
- Stay Informed: Research the city's neighborhoods before your visit
5. Pickpocketing
Be cautious of thieves on public transportation and in crowded areas. Use a money belt or anti-theft bag.
- Use a Hidden Wallet: Use a hidden pocket or money belt to keep valuables safe
- Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
- Choose Secure Transportation: Travel by taxi or Uber instead of public transportation when possible
6. Fake Shops
Avoid stores selling expensive items like jewelry at suspiciously low prices. Opt for reputable shopping malls or authorized dealers.
- Check Prices: Compare prices with other shops to ensure fairness
- Ask for Receipt: Request a receipt for all purchases as proof of purchase
- Check the Shop's Reputation: Research the shop and check online reviews before shopping
7. Overpriced Souvenirs
Avoid buying souvenirs from street vendors in touristy areas; shops in El Centro or La Strada offer more reasonable prices.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices with multiple sellers before purchasing
- Check the Shop's Reputation: Research the shop and check online reviews before shopping
- Bargain: Negotiate prices to get a fair deal
8. Friendly Scams
Be cautious of overly friendly locals offering help or inviting you to their homes. They may try to rob or extort money from you.
- Mind Your Personal Belongings: Keep a close eye on your personal belongings when interacting with strangers
- Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid secluded areas and stick to public places as much as possible
- Trust Your Instincts: Follow your intuition if a situation seems suspicious or uncomfortable
9. Unwanted Friend Requests
Avoid accepting friend requests from strangers on social media who may be trying to gather personal information.
- Limit Personal Information: Minimize sharing personal information online
- Verify Identities: Double-check the identity of new social media contacts before adding them as friends
- Use Strong Passwords: Create strong and unique passwords for your accounts
10. Criminal Gangs Posing as Police Officers
Police officers will never ask for money or personal belongings. If stopped by someone claiming to be a police officer, ask for identification and call the nearest station to verify their identity.
- Ask for ID: Ask the person for identification before complying with any requests
- Verify Identity: Call the local police station to confirm the officer's identity
- Stay Calm and Cautious: Remain calm and be cautious when dealing with authorities
11. Golden Triangle Drug Tourism
Avoid activities related to drug tourism, such as visiting coke farms or attending drug-themed parties. These activities are illegal and dangerous.
- Legality: Participating in drug-related activities is illegal
- Risk of Arrest: There is a high risk of arrest and imprisonment for participating in such activities
- Danger: The drug trade is dangerous, both from the risks associated with drugs and encounters with criminals
12. Lost or Stolen Passport
Report a lost or stolen passport to the local police station and your country's embassy immediately.
- Report Immediately: Report the incident as soon as possible to minimize potential problems
- Obtain Emergency Travel Documents: Apply for emergency travel documents to continue your trip or return home safely
- Notify Your Country's Embassy: Inform your embassy about the incident and ask for assistance
13. ATM Scams
Avoid ATMs that appear tampered with or are located in isolated areas. Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit and busy locations.
- Use Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located inside banks for increased security
- Check the Machine: Inspect the ATM for signs of tampering before using it
- Limit Cash Withdrawals: Limit your cash withdrawals to avoid carrying large amounts
14. Credit Card Skimming
Be cautious when using credit cards at restaurants, bars, or shops. Use machines that are in good condition and cover your hand while entering your PIN.
- Check the Machine: Inspect the card reader for signs of tampering
- Cover Your Hand: Cover your hand while entering your PIN to prevent onlookers from seeing it
- Monitor Account Activity: Regularly check your credit card statements for any unusual transactions
15. Overpriced Accommodation
Avoid overpaying for accommodation by booking through reputable websites or agencies. Compare prices and read reviews before making a reservation.
- Compare Prices: Check multiple booking platforms to find the best deal
- Read Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to ensure quality and value
- Check Location: Choose accommodations in safe and convenient areas