Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ning’an, Heilongjiang, China
1. Taxi Overcharging
Avoid getting overcharged by taxis. Always use registered and meter-using taxis.
- Registered Taxis: Taxis with official logo and license plate.
- Meter Usage: Taxis using meter based on distance traveled.
- Avoid Night Rides: Avoid late-night rides unless necessary to avoid overcharging.
2. Counterfeit Goods Market
Beware of counterfeit goods sold in some markets. Opt for established stores or shops instead.
- Established Stores: Stores with permanent structures and proper licensing.
- Brand Authenticity: Check for genuine brand labels, packaging, and quality.
- Haggling: Be aware that overly low prices may indicate counterfeit goods.
3. Currency Exchange Scams
Stay vigilant when exchanging currency to avoid fraudulent practices. Always use reputable exchange offices.
- Reputable Offices: Exchange offices located in tourist areas, banks, or official exchange centers.
- Check Rates: Compare rates with other exchange offices and online resources before exchanging money.
- Avoid Street Exchanges: Avoid currency exchanges on the street to minimize the risk of fraud.
4. Fraudulent Tour Guides
Choose reliable tour guides and avoid those offering extremely cheap prices. Check reviews and recommendations.
- Recommendations: Tour guides recommended by locals, hotels, or reputable travel agencies.
- Price: Avoid extremely cheap prices as they might indicate inexperienced or fraudulent tour guides.
- Reviews and Certifications: Check reviews and certifications to ensure the guide's reliability and professionalism.
5. Street Food Safety
Enjoy street food safely by choosing popular and busy stalls with proper sanitation.
- Busy Stalls: Popular street food stalls with a constant stream of customers.
- Proper Sanitation: Stalls with clean workspaces, gloves, and protective gear.
- Cooking Techniques: Food cooked in front of you or served hot indicates freshness.
6. Accommodation Scams
Avoid accommodation scams by booking through reputable channels and checking the property beforehand.
- Reputable Channels: Book through well-known online travel agencies.
- Property Checks: Visit the property before checking in to ensure its safety and cleanliness.
- Avoid Street Deals: Avoid last-minute deals on the street as they might be fraudulent.
7. Bar and Club Scams
Avoid overpriced drinks or fake entertainment by doing research beforehand.
- Research: Check online reviews, recommendations from locals, or travel forums.
- Avoid 'Ladies Nights': Be cautious of events like 'ladies nights' that might have hidden charges.
- Check Prices: Compare prices with other bars and clubs in the area before making a decision.
8. Local Friend Scams
Be wary of overly friendly locals offering help who might later ask for money.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts and avoid the situation.
- Be Wary of Helpful Offers: Avoid offers for help that seem too good to be true.
- Meet in Public Places: Meet new acquaintances in public places and never disclose sensitive information.
9. Internet Café Scams
Avoid unsecured internet cafes to protect your personal information.
- Secure Internet Cafés: Choose internet cafes located in busy areas with good reviews.
- Password Protection: Always log out and close the browser to protect your information.
- Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid online banking or sensitive transactions on public computers.
10. Unauthorized Photography
Respect local customs and avoid taking photos of military installations, bridges, or certain buildings.
- Know the Rules: Check for signs or ask locals about photography restrictions.
- Respect Privacy: Avoid taking photos of people without their consent.
- Legal Consequences: Be aware that unauthorized photography can lead to fines or imprisonment.
11. Bus and Train Ticket Scams
Purchase tickets from authorized vendors or at the station to avoid fraudulent practices.
- Authorized Vendors: Buy tickets only from official ticket windows or authorized vendors.
- Station Ticket Sales: Purchase tickets at the station before boarding the bus or train.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid purchasing tickets from street vendors to minimize the risk of scams.
12. Unfair Bargaining
Negotiate prices fairly and avoid overpaying for goods or services.
- Know the Market Value: Research market value before bargaining to ensure fairness.
- Avoid Overpaying: Avoid paying prices significantly higher than the market value.
- Be Polite and Friendly: Maintain a polite and friendly demeanor during bargaining to foster good relationships.
13. Pickpocketing
Stay vigilant and secure your belongings in crowded areas.
- Secure Your Belongings: Carry essentials in a secure bag or pouch.
- Crowded Areas: Be extra cautious in crowded tourist attractions, markets, and public transportation.
- Avoid Displaying Valuables: Minimize the display of valuable items like smartphones or cameras to minimize attention.
14. ATM Scams
Choose ATMs in well-lit areas and avoid using ATMs with unusual features.
- Well-Lit Areas: Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas.
- Avoid Unusual Features: Avoid ATMs with unusual features like skimming devices or hidden cameras.
- Cover Your PIN: Always cover your PIN when entering it to prevent snooping.
15. Fraudulent Charities
Donate to reputable charities and avoid street collectors.
- Reputable Charities: Research charities online or ask locals for recommendations.
- Avoid Street Collectors: Do not give money to street collectors as they might be fraudulent.
- Official Receipts: Always request an official receipt when making a donation.