Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Nenjiang, Heilongjiang, China

1. Taxi Scams

Unlicensed taxis may overcharge or take longer routes. Always use authorized taxi stands.

Counterfeit tickets for popular attractions may be sold. Buy from official sales points.

Official Sales Point: Only buy tickets at official sales points.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt when purchasing tickets.
Check Online Information: Verify the ticket prices and sales locations online.

Some street food vendors may use expired or low-quality ingredients. Stick to well-known establishments.

Exchange rates may be inflated at unofficial exchange booths. Use authorized banks or exchange offices.

Check Rates Online: Compare exchange rates online before exchanging money.
Avoid Late Night Exchanges: Avoid exchanging money at night or in secluded areas.
Use Authorized Booths: Only use authorized exchange booths, banks, or ATMs.

Some accommodation may not meet the advertised standards. Use reputable booking platforms or visit tourist offices.

Read Reviews: Read reviews of the accommodation before booking.
Check Location: Make sure the location is convenient and safe.
Visit Tourist Office: If in doubt, visit a tourist office for advice on accommodation options.

Unauthorized guides may lead to scams or fraudulent attractions. Use authorized guides or visit official tourist offices.

Check Credentials: Always ask for credentials and verify their authenticity.
Use Reputable Companies: Book tours through reputable companies or agencies.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or hotel staff for recommendations on guides.

Buying counterfeit goods supports illegal activities. Avoid markets selling fake products.

Know the Difference: Learn to identify genuine and counterfeit items.
Stick to Major Shopping Streets: Shop on major shopping streets or in authorized stores.
Support Local Artisans: Buy from local artisans and support authentic craftsmanship.

Some bus drivers may overcharge or take longer routes. Use official public transport services.

Check Prices Before Boarding: Always check the price of the journey before boarding.
Stick to Official Stops: Use official bus stops and stations.
Avoid Night Travel: Avoid traveling by bus at night if possible.

Tour agencies offering lower prices may provide poor service or be fraudulent. Use reputable tour companies.

Check Reviews: Read reviews of the tour agency online.
Visit Tourist Office: If in doubt, visit a tourist office for advice on reputable tour agencies.
Check Inclusions and Exclusions: Carefully review what's included and excluded in the tour package.

Someone may find your lost item and return it with a demand for money. Keep valuables safe.

Keep Valuables Safe: Always keep valuable items secure.
Report Lost Items Immediately: Report any lost items to local authorities or your hotel.
Avoid Giving Money: Do not give money to strangers claiming they found your property.

Skimming devices may be used to steal card information at unauthorized ATMs. Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers.

Use Bank ATMs: Always use ATMs located within banks or secure areas.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your account activity for any unusual transactions.

Some shops may overcharge for souvenirs. Bargain and compare prices.

Bargain: Always bargain for the best price.
Compare Prices: Compare prices of similar items in different shops.
Know the Market Price: Research the market price for souvenirs before shopping.

Unsecured cyber cafes may have spyware installed to steal personal information. Use secure Wi-Fi connections.

Use Secure Connections: Always use a VPN or secure connection when accessing sensitive data.
Avoid Logging in Public Computers: Avoid logging into personal accounts on public computers.
Use Mobile Data: Use mobile data when possible to access sensitive information.

Some street performers may ask for money and then become aggressive. Watch performances from a distance.

Watch From a Distance: Always watch performances from a safe distance.
Donate Carefully: Only donate to reputable charities or performers you trust.
Avoid Alcohol and Late Night Scenes: Avoid drinking alcohol or being in secluded areas late at night.

Some massage parlors may use unhygienic practices or offer services that are not what they claim. Use reputable spas or massage centers.