Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Meizhou, China

1. Fake Taxi Drivers

Unlicensed taxi drivers may overcharge or lead to dangerous areas. Be cautious when hailing a cab.

Recognizable Logo: Legitimate taxis in Meizhou will have recognizable logos on their cars.
Meter Usage: Legitimate taxi drivers should always use a meter to calculate the fare.
Safety First: Always ensure your safety by sitting in the back seat and keeping belongings close at hand.

Some market stalls sell counterfeit goods. Be wary of overly cheap prices and inferior quality products.

Check for Quality: Examine the product carefully for signs of poor craftsmanship.
Avoid Overly Cheap Prices: If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Shop Reputable Stores: Opt for established stores with positive reviews and recommendations.

Some internet cafes may install software to steal personal information. Use only trusted cafes.

Secure Computers: Choose computers with updated antivirus software.
Check for Reputation: Ask locals for recommendations on reliable internet cafes.
Limit Personal Information Sharing: Be cautious when sharing personal information online, especially sensitive data like bank account numbers or passwords.

Some hotels and hostels may overcharge for subpar accommodations. Research prices before booking.

Compare Prices: Use online travel websites to compare prices of different accommodations.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests before booking your stay.
Negotiate Rates: Attempt to negotiate lower rates, especially for extended stays.

Some street food vendors may use poor quality ingredients or unhygienic practices. Choose vendors carefully.

Clean Vendor Area: Look for a clean work area and proper food handling techniques.
Fresh Ingredients: Choose vendors with fresh ingredients, especially fruits and vegetables.
Recommended Vendors: Ask locals for recommendations on reputable street food vendors.

Criminals may use skimmers to steal your card information at some ATMs. Use well-lit and busy areas.

Check ATM for Tampering: Inspect the ATM carefully for any signs of tampering, such as extra devices or loose parts.
Use Indoor ATMs: Prefer indoor ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas when possible.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your account activity for any unusual transactions.

Thieves may target tourists in crowded areas. Keep belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.

Secure Bags and Wallets: Use bags with zippers or fasteners, and keep valuables concealed.
Stay Aware in Crowds: Maintain situational awareness and avoid distractions while in crowded areas.
Use a Hidden Wallet: Consider using a hidden wallet or money belt to secure your valuables.

Some tour guides may lead you to overpriced shops or scams. Research guides before booking tours.

Check Credentials: Ask for proper licensing and credentials.
Read Reviews: Read reviews from previous clients to ensure a positive tour experience.
Negotiate Prices: Always negotiate prices for tours before starting, and be wary of unusually high or low prices.

Children may offer you goldfish as gifts, then ask for money to cover the cost of food. Avoid accepting the fish.

Decline the Offer: Politely decline the offer and continue on your way.
Avoid Unfamiliar Children: Be cautious when interacting with unfamiliar children offering gifts or services.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you witness suspicious activity, inform local authorities for their investigation.

Some attractions may overcharge tourists. Research ticket prices before visiting.

Compare Prices Online: Check the official attraction website for current ticket prices.
Ask for Student Discounts: If you are a student, ask for any available discounts.
Negotiate Prices at the Gate: Attempt to negotiate lower prices, especially for group entries.

Some street food vendors may use unsafe ingredients or unhygienic practices. Be cautious when accepting food or drink from strangers.

Check Vendor Hygiene: Look for clean hands and proper food handling techniques.
Avoid Unfamiliar Foods: Research local cuisine before traveling, and avoid eating foods that are not familiar to you.
Stick to Established Restaurants: Choose established restaurants with positive reviews and recommendations.

Scammers may take advantage of language barriers to deceive tourists. Learn basic Chinese phrases or use translation apps.

Learn Basic Chinese Phrases: Familiarize yourself with essential Chinese phrases before traveling.
Use Translation Apps: Utilize translation apps to help communicate with locals.
Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels suspicious, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the interaction.

Friendly locals may offer help but lead to scams. Be cautious when accepting assistance from strangers.

Ask for Recommendations: Request recommendations from trusted sources, such as hotel staff or fellow travelers.
Stay in Groups: Travel with others to reduce the risk of scams and stay safe.
Use Your Intuition: If a situation feels suspicious, trust your intuition and remove yourself from the interaction.

Criminals may try to pass off counterfeit money as legitimate currency. Be vigilant when receiving change.

Examine Bills Carefully: Examine bills carefully for signs of poor printing quality or misalignments.
Feel the Money: Counterfeit money may feel different than real currency, such as being too lightweight.
Check for Security Features: Legitimate bills have security features like watermarks and holographic strips. Verify the presence of these features.

Some beggars may be part of organized scams, so exercise caution when donating money.

Avoid Giving Cash Directly: If possible, avoid giving cash directly to beggars and instead donate to reputable charities.
Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious when interacting with beggars in crowded areas.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you witness suspicious activity, inform local authorities for their investigation.