Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Mulangodi, Kerala, India

1. Autorickshaw Overcharging

Avoid overpriced autorickshaw rides by negotiating prices before starting your journey.

Know the Rates: Familiarize yourself with common fare rates.
Ask for a Receipt: Request a receipt to prove paid amount in case of dispute.
Use Metered Autorickshaws: Opt for metered autorickshaws when available.

Avoid scam tour guides by booking with reputable travel agencies.

Research Agencies: Check reviews and ratings of travel agencies online.
Ask for ID: Request proper identification from tour guides.
Stay Alert: Remain vigilant and trust your instincts when meeting new people.

Examine currency carefully to avoid accepting or giving fake money.

Feel the Texture: Fake notes may feel different from real ones.
Check Security Features: Inspect security features like watermarks and holograms.
Use ATMs in Banks: Withdraw money from banks or reputable ATMs when possible.

Bargain for fair prices on food and souvenirs to avoid overpaying.

Exchange money at banks or reputable exchange offices to avoid getting ripped off.

Compare Rates: Check multiple exchange rate sources before deciding.
Ask for Receipt: Request a receipt to prove the exchange was made.
Stay Away from Street Exchange: Avoid exchanging money on the street or with unofficial vendors.

Donate to official temple funds and beware of overly aggressive beggars.

Look for Official Donation Boxes: Find donation boxes with the temple's name or an official seal.
Avoid Aggressive Beggars: Ignore overly aggressive beggars and avoid giving them money.
Respect Local Customs: Follow local customs when visiting temples or shrines.

Avoid taxi scams by negotiating prices before starting your journey or using pre-paid taxis.

Know the Rates: Familiarize yourself with common fare rates.
Use Pre-Paid Taxis: Opt for pre-paid taxis when available to avoid overcharging.
Ask for Receipt: Request a receipt to prove paid amount in case of dispute.

Be aware of friendly fishermen who offer to help you catch fish and then demand payment.

Stay Alert: Remain vigilant when participating in beach activities.
Refuse Unsolicited Help: Decline help from strangers, especially when there's an expectation of payment.
Research Beach Activities: Learn about the local customs and expectations around beach activities.

Buy jewelry from reputable shops or jewelers, not street vendors.

Check Reviews: Read reviews of local jewelers before making a purchase.
Buy from Reputable Shops: Opt for established jewelry stores over street vendors.
Inspect Jewelry Carefully: Examine the quality of the jewelry before purchasing.

Choose street food vendors that are clean and busy to minimize risk of foodborne illnesses.

Look for a Clean Environment: Avoid street food stalls with unsanitary conditions.
Check Food Handling Practices: Ensure the vendor handles food safely and hygienically.
Stick to Busy Stalls: Prefer busy street food vendors, as they are likely popular for a reason.

Shop at reputable stores and avoid backstreet shops with no visible products.

Research Shops: Read reviews of local shops before visiting.
Avoid Backstreet Shops: Stay away from shady-looking backstreet shops.
Check for Inventory: Ensure the shop has visible merchandise before entering.

Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks to protect your personal information.

Use a VPN: Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for added security.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Limit sensitive activities on public networks.
Create Strong Passwords: Use strong and unique passwords for all online accounts.

Stick to well-lit, secure locations when using an ATM and avoid using ATMs displaying unusual features.

Avoid ATMs in Dark Areas: Choose ATMs located in well-lit areas.
Check for Skimming Devices: Inspect the ATM for unusual attachments before using it.
Use Bank ATMs: Prefer bank-owned ATMs over independent ones.

Buy SIM cards from authorized retailers and avoid giving personal information to strangers.

Check for Authorized Retailers: Find an authorized retailer to purchase your SIM card.
Secure Personal Information: Never share sensitive information with strangers.
Activate SIM Card Properly: Activate your SIM card as soon as you purchase it.

Stay alert and avoid getting involved in staged accidents or begging situations.

Ignore Staged Incidents: Do not get involved with unfamiliar people who ask for help.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Remain vigilant when exploring new places.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities if you witness any suspicious activity.