Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Nampo, Korea, North
1. Counterfeit Money Scam
Be wary of receiving counterfeit North Korean Won in change or during transactions. Always check the bills for security features.
- Security Features: Know the security features of genuine North Korean banknotes, such as watermarks and holograms.
- Safe Transactions: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use banks or authorized exchange offices for transactions.
- Check Change: Always check the change you receive, especially in large transactions.
2. Unlicensed Guides Scam
Be aware of unofficial tour guides offering services. Always use authorized guides provided by your travel agency.
- Authorized Guides: Ask your travel agency for an approved guide, ensuring a legal and trustworthy experience.
- Check Credentials: Request to see the guide's identification and official credentials before engaging their services.
- Stick with Tour Group: Avoid splitting up from your tour group, as it increases the risk of encountering unlicensed guides.
3. Overcharging in Restaurants Scam
Some restaurants may overcharge tourists, especially for popular dishes or drinks. Make sure to check prices before ordering.
- Price List: Ask for a price list before ordering, and confirm the cost of each item.
- Local Prices: Compare prices with local prices to ensure fairness.
- Avoid Hidden Fees: Be cautious of hidden fees, such as service charges or tax add-ons, and clarify all costs before paying the bill.
4. Overpriced Souvenirs Scam
Some souvenir shops may overprice items for tourists. Research popular souvenirs and their fair prices before visiting stores.
- Research Prices: Familiarize yourself with the average price of popular North Korean souvenirs to avoid overpaying.
- Negotiate Prices: Attempt to negotiate prices, especially in markets or street vendors.
- Shop Around: Visit multiple souvenir stores to compare prices and find the best deal.
5. Fraudulent Taxi Drivers Scam
Some taxi drivers may take advantage of tourists by charging excessive fares or taking longer routes. Use only authorized taxis and negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
- Authorized Taxis: Only use authorized taxi services, which can be identified by their logo on the vehicle.
- Fare Negotiation: Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey to avoid unexpected charges.
- Avoid Longer Routes: Pay attention to the route taken by the taxi driver and question any deviations from the expected route.
6. Friendly Scam (Asking for Money)
Individuals may approach tourists asking for help or money, pretending to be in need. Be cautious and wary of such situations.
- Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts; if a situation feels suspicious, it probably is.
- Avoid Alone Areas: Stay in populated areas and avoid isolated or dimly-lit locations when traveling alone.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter suspicious activity, inform your tour guide or hotel staff for their assistance.
7. ATM Skimming Scam
Criminals may install skimming devices on ATMs to steal your bank card information. Use only ATMs located in well-lit, heavily trafficked areas and avoid using the machine if it appears tampered with.
- Secure Locations: Choose ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas, such as banks or shopping centers.
- Check the Machine: Inspect the ATM for signs of tampering, such as oddly placed stickers or loose parts.
- Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent potential skimmers from capturing your information.
8. Internet Café Scam
Internet cafes may have spyware or keyloggers installed to steal personal information. Use a VPN or avoid using public computers when accessing sensitive data.
- Use a VPN: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your internet connection and protect your personal information.
- Avoid Sensitive Data: Avoid accessing sensitive data, such as online banking or emails, on public computers.
- Check Café Reputation: Research the reputation of internet cafes before using them to ensure they are trustworthy.
9. Photography Scam
Some individuals may ask for payment before allowing photography. Be aware of local photography rules and regulations.
- Local Photography Laws: Research the local laws regarding photography in Nampo to avoid accidentally breaking any rules.
- Ask Permission: Always ask permission before taking photographs of people, especially in sensitive areas such as military installations.
- Negotiate Payment: If asked for payment to take a photograph, negotiate the cost with the individual beforehand.
10. Shore Excursion Scam
Unscrupulous individuals may offer shore excursions that do not deliver on promised experiences or overcharge tourists. Use only approved shore excursions provided by your cruise line.
- Approved Excursions: Only participate in shore excursions organized and approved by your cruise line.
- Check Reviews: Research reviews of the shore excursion provider to ensure a positive experience.
- Negotiate Costs: Always negotiate the cost of the shore excursion before participating.
11. Counterfeit Goods Scam
Purchasing counterfeit goods may result in legal issues upon returning home. Be aware of the local laws regarding counterfeit items and avoid purchasing them.
- Local Laws: Research the local laws regarding the possession and sale of counterfeit goods.
- Avoid Questionable Shops: Avoid shops that specialize in electronics, watches, or other high-value items, as they may be selling counterfeits.
- Buy from Reputable Sources: Purchase goods from reputable stores or markets, and avoid purchasing items directly from street vendors.
12. Exchange Scam
Unauthorized money exchangers may offer lower rates or charge additional fees. Use only authorized exchange services or banks.
- Authorized Exchange Services: Only use authorized money exchange services or banks to change currency.
- Check Rates: Compare exchange rates among various service providers before deciding on one.
- Inspect Bills Carefully: Inspect the bills you receive, making sure they are genuine and in good condition.
13. Fraudulent Accommodations Scam
Some accommodations may provide subpar service or overcharge tourists. Use only approved hotels or guesthouses provided by your travel agency.
- Approved Accommodation: Only use accommodation services that have been approved by your travel agency.
- Check Reviews: Research reviews of the accommodation provider to ensure a positive experience.
- Negotiate Costs: Always negotiate the cost of your stay before checking in.
14. Street Food Scam
Some street food vendors may serve contaminated or low-quality food. Be cautious when consuming street food and choose establishments that appear clean and busy.
- Cleanliness: Choose street food vendors with a clean, well-organized stall.
- Busy Vendors: Select street food vendors that are busy and have positive reviews from other customers.
- Avoid Undercooked Foods: Ask for foods that are fully cooked, as undercooked items may contain harmful bacteria.
15. Tourist Bus Scam
Some tourist buses may charge inflated fares or drop passengers off at unwanted locations. Use only authorized tour buses provided by your travel agency.
- Authorized Tour Buses: Only use tour buses that have been approved by your travel agency.
- Check Routes: Research the route of the tour bus to ensure it visits the desired destinations.
- Negotiate Costs: Always negotiate the cost of the tour before boarding the bus.