Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Nanping, China

1. Taxi Scams

Watch out for taxis overcharging or taking longer routes. Always use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting the journey.

Avoid Unlicensed Taxis: Only take taxis with a valid license plate and taxi sign.
Agree on Fare Before Journey: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey to avoid misunderstandings.
Be Aware of Longer Routes: Some taxi drivers may take longer routes to increase the fare. Always check the route and ask if unsure.

Avoid buying counterfeit goods in local markets. They are illegal and of poor quality.

Buy from Reputable Shops: Purchase items from reputable shops or authorized dealers.
Look for Quality Signs: Counterfeit goods often lack quality control, so look for any signs of poor workmanship.
Report Counterfeits: If you come across counterfeit goods, report it to local authorities.

Some street food vendors may use expired or low-quality ingredients. Stick to popular and busy stalls.

Choose Busy Stalls: Prefer popular and busy street food stalls, as they are more likely to serve fresh and high-quality food.
Avoid Expired Food: Be cautious about food that looks or smells suspicious, and avoid expired food items.
Check Hygiene Standards: Check if the stall follows basic hygiene standards, such as wearing gloves and using clean utensils.

Be careful when using ATMs, as they might be equipped with skimming devices. Use ATMs located in banks or well-lit areas.

Use Bank ATMs: Use ATMs that are inside banks or well-protected at an official bank branch.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN to prevent any potential skimmers from seeing it.
Monitor Your Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any unusual transactions and report any suspicious activity immediately.

Avoid purchasing SIM cards from street vendors. Go to official retailers for a legitimate purchase.

Buy from Official Retailers: Purchase SIM cards only from authorized retailers.
Check for Legitimate Packaging: Ensure the SIM card comes in its original packaging and has all necessary documentation.
Register Your SIM Card: Always register your SIM card with the local service provider to avoid any issues.

Beware of unlicensed tour guides who might lead you to overpriced shops or restaurants. Use only licensed tour guides.

Use Licensed Tour Guides: Choose a licensed tour guide with a valid guide license and ID.
Avoid Obligatory Stops: Inform your guide that you do not want any obligatory stops at shops or restaurants.
Negotiate Price Upfront: Always negotiate the price and services provided by the tour guide before starting the tour.

Avoid downloading unverified map apps on your phone. Use well-known and trusted app stores for maps.

Use Trusted App Stores: Download map apps from Google Play Store or Apple App Store to ensure their authenticity.
Check User Reviews: Read user reviews and ratings of the app before downloading it.
Secure Your Device: Keep your device secure to prevent any unauthorized access or malware.

Be wary of accommodations that offer exceptionally low prices. Check reviews and book with reputable sites.

Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to gauge the quality of the accommodation.
Book with Reputable Sites: Book your accommodation through reputable sites like Booking.com or Agoda.
Avoid Overpriced Areas: Stay in areas that are popular with tourists but avoid overpriced tourist traps.

Be cautious when exchanging money. Use reputable exchange booths or banks for a fair exchange rate.

Use Reputable Exchange Booths: Exchange your money at official exchange booths or banks.
Check Exchange Rates Online: Compare exchange rates online before exchanging your currency.
Count Your Money Carefully: Count your money carefully immediately after the exchange to avoid any discrepancies.

Be wary of fake transportation tickets sold by street vendors. Purchase tickets only from authorized outlets.

Purchase from Authorized Outlets: Buy your transportation tickets from official ticket booths or stations.
Check for Legitimate Tickets: Ensure that the ticket has all necessary details and appears legitimate.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy transportation tickets from street vendors to avoid potential scams.

Avoid purchasing fake souvenirs. Look for authentic and traditional items.

Choose Authentic Items: Purchase souvenirs that are made of quality materials and have intricate designs.
Avoid Overpriced Souvenirs: Negotiate prices for souvenirs to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
Check with Locals: Ask locals about the authenticity of souvenirs before purchasing them.

Be cautious when dining out. Look for restaurants with affordable prices and good reviews.

Choose Affordable Restaurants: Opt for restaurants that have reasonable prices and are popular among locals.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous diners to gauge the quality of food and service.
Negotiate Prices when Possible: In some cases, negotiate prices with restaurant owners for a fair deal.

Always bargain for prices when shopping. Be aware of local pricing norms and customary prices.

Research Local Prices: Research the average prices for goods in Nanping before starting your bargaining.
Negotiate Politely: Negotiate prices politely and be open to compromise to reach a fair agreement.
Walk Away if Necessary: If the seller is not willing to negotiate or lower the price, walk away and find another vendor.

Avoid tourist traps that overcharge for goods or services. Look for areas popular with locals instead.

Choose Locations Popular with Locals: Opt for areas frequented by locals to find affordable and authentic experiences.
Research Prices Beforehand: Research the average prices of goods and services in Nanping before shopping or dining out.
Ask Locals for Recommendations: Ask locals about their favorite places to shop, eat, and visit in Nanping.

Be wary of internet cafes that may install keyloggers or spyware on your device. Use trusted Wi-Fi networks instead.

Use Trusted Wi-Fi Networks: Use Wi-Fi networks provided by hotels, reputable cafes, or mobile hotspots.
Avoid Leaving Devices Unattended: Never leave your devices unattended in internet cafes to prevent theft or tampering.
Update Your Device Regularly: Keep your device updated with the latest security patches and antivirus software.