Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Montevideo, Uruguay
1. Taxis from Airport Scam
Watch out for unofficial taxis at the Carrasco International Airport. Always use prepaid taxis or arrange a private transfer in advance.
- Unlicensed Drivers: Unlicensed drivers may overcharge you or take an unexpected route.
- Prepaid Taxis: Prepaid taxis are officially sanctioned and offer a fair price.
- Private Transfer: A pre-arranged private transfer ensures safety and peace of mind.
2. Street Vendors Scam
Beware of overpriced or counterfeit goods sold by street vendors. Always compare prices and check for authenticity.
- Overpricing: Vendors may charge higher prices than at stores to tourists.
- Counterfeit Goods: Some vendors sell counterfeit items that can be of poor quality or even dangerous.
- Ask Locals: Locals can guide you to reputable vendors and help negotiate fair prices.
3. Bogus Police Officers Scam
Be wary of people posing as police officers asking for your belongings or documents. Always ask for proper identification and go to the station if necessary.
- Fake IDs: Scammers may show fake police identification.
- Requesting Documents: Police officers should not request your personal belongings or documents on the street.
- Station Verification: If in doubt, ask to go to a police station for verification.
4. Overpriced Restaurants Scam
Some restaurants near tourist attractions may charge inflated prices. Look for local eateries away from popular sites for affordable meals.
- Inflated Prices: Restaurants near tourist attractions often overcharge tourists.
- Local Eateries: Local eateries offer authentic food at affordable prices.
- Avoid Peak Times: Dining during peak hours may lead to higher prices and longer wait times.
5. Sports Tickets Scam
Avoid buying tickets from street vendors for major sports events. Only buy tickets from authorized outlets to avoid counterfeits.
- Street Vendors: Tickets sold by street vendors may be fake or overpriced.
- Authorized Outlets: Authorized outlets sell legitimate tickets at the right price.
- Check Event Dates: Scammers may try to sell tickets for events that have already taken place or never existed.
6. Currency Exchange Scam
Always use reputable exchange booths and avoid exchanging money on the street to avoid getting counterfeit bills.
- Street Exchanges: Exchanging money on the street can lead to receiving counterfeit bills.
- Reputable Booths: Reputable exchange booths offer fair rates and legitimate currency.
- ATMs: ATMs provide a safe and convenient way to withdraw local currency.
7. Overpriced Accommodation Scam
Some accommodations near tourist attractions may overcharge. Research your accommodation options online before arriving in Montevideo.
- Overpricing: Accommodation near tourist sites often have higher prices.
- Online Research: Online research helps you find affordable accommodation options.
- Booking in Advance: Booking your accommodation ahead of time can help secure a good deal.
8. Sim Card Scam
Avoid buying SIM cards from street vendors. Only purchase them from official stores to ensure functionality.
- Street Vendors: SIM cards sold by street vendors may not work or have limited functionality.
- Official Stores: Official stores sell fully functional SIM cards with the right plans and coverage.
- Check Your Card: Ensure your SIM card is activated and works properly before leaving the store.
9. Guidebook Scam
Be wary of people offering free guidebooks or maps. Always carry a reliable map and research attractions online beforehand.
- Free Offers: Offers for free guidebooks or maps may come with hidden costs or unwanted services.
- Reliable Map: A reliable map helps you navigate Montevideo safely and efficiently.
- Online Research: Researching attractions online can help you make informed decisions.
10. Ferry Tickets Scam
Only buy ferry tickets from authorized outlets to avoid counterfeits and overpricing. Check ferry schedules and prices online beforehand.
- Authorized Outlets: Authorized outlets sell legitimate ferry tickets at the right price.
- Online Research: Researching ferry schedules and prices can help you plan your trip effectively.
- Check Schedules: Ensure the ferry schedule matches your travel plans to avoid missing your ride.
11. Bus Tickets Scam
Avoid buying bus tickets from street vendors. Only use official bus ticket machines or ask the driver for a ticket.
- Street Vendors: Bus tickets sold by street vendors may be counterfeit or overpriced.
- Official Machines: Official machines sell legitimate bus tickets at the right price.
- Ask Driver: If you don't see a ticket machine, ask the driver for a ticket.
12. Pickpocketing Scam
Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. Use a money belt or lockable bag for valuable items.
- Crowded Areas: Pickpocketing is more common in crowded, touristy areas.
- Money Belt: A money belt keeps your valuables close to your body and secure.
- Lockable Bag: A lockable bag can help protect your belongings from theft.
13. ATM Skimming Scam
Only use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas and cover the keypad when entering your PIN to avoid skimming.
- Well-Lit Areas: ATMs in well-lit, busy areas are less likely to be targeted by thieves.
- Cover Keypad: Covering the keypad while entering your PIN can help protect your information.
- Check ATM for Tampering: Inspect the ATM for any signs of tampering before using it.
14. False Friend Scam
Be cautious when meeting strangers who offer help or friendship. Stick to planned activities and always share your plans with someone trustworthy.
- Strangers Offering Help: Offers of help from strangers may lead to scams or dangerous situations.
- Stick to Plans: Following your planned activities reduces the risk of encountering a scam.
- Share Your Plans: Sharing your plans with someone trustworthy can help ensure your safety.
15. Overpriced Market Items Scam
Avoid buying goods at the first market you come across. Compare prices and negotiate for better deals.
- First Market: Prices at the first market may be inflated to attract tourists.
- Compare Prices: Comparing prices helps you find the best deal.
- Negotiate: Negotiating with vendors can help you secure a lower price.