Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Qiqihar, China

1. Taxi Overcharging

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by using a metered taxi or negotiate the price beforehand.

Avoid unofficial tour guides who may overcharge or lead you to fraudulent stores.

Official Guides: Confirm the guide is officially licensed by local tourist authorities.
Tourist Office: Book tours through reputable tourist offices.
Research: Research the places you want to visit and find official guides online.

Avoid buying counterfeit goods by purchasing from reputable shops or markets.

Reputable Shops: Buy from well-known, established retailers.
Markets Inspection: Inspect the quality of goods carefully before purchasing.
Price Check: Check prices for similar items online or in other shops to ensure reasonableness.

Avoid overpriced currency exchange by using reputable banks or licensed exchange booths.

Banks: Exchange money at a bank with good exchange rates.
Licensed Booths: Use licensed currency exchange booths, easily identified by their permits.
Online Research: Research the current exchange rate before traveling to know if you're being overcharged.

Avoid shoddy accommodations by using trusted online booking platforms or visiting reputable hotels.

Online Booking Platforms: Book accommodation through well-known online platforms.
Reputable Hotels: Stay at hotels with good reviews and a longstanding reputation.
Room Inspection: Inspect the cleanliness and condition of the room before accepting it.

Avoid food poisoning by choosing clean restaurants and verifying the freshness of food.

Cleanliness: Choose restaurants with a high level of cleanliness.
Food Preparation: Observe how the food is prepared to ensure safety standards.
Freshness: Ask about the freshness of the ingredients used in your meal.

Avoid tourist traps by researching attractions and exploring lesser-known areas.

Research: Learn about the local area and its must-see sights.
Off-the-Beaten Path: Visit lesser-known areas to discover hidden gems.
Local Tips: Ask locals for their recommendations on where to go and what to see.

Avoid data theft by using a VPN or avoiding public Wi-Fi entirely.

VPN: Use a reliable VPN service to secure your internet connection.
Data Sensitivity: Limit sensitive activities, such as online banking, on public Wi-Fi networks.
Cybersecurity Apps: Install apps that monitor your device for malware and suspicious activity.

Avoid unsafe transportation by choosing well-maintained vehicles and reliable operators.

Vehicle Condition: Check the vehicle for signs of maintenance or safety issues.
Operator Reputation: Choose operators with good reviews and a longstanding reputation.
Safety Precautions: Ensure the vehicle follows safety protocols, such as wearing seatbelts.

Avoid criminal gang approaches by staying in well-lit areas and avoiding deserted locations.

Well-Lit Areas: Stick to well-lit streets and public places.
Avoid Deserted Locations: Avoid deserted or poorly populated areas, especially at night.
Travel in Groups: Travel with a companion or group whenever possible.

Avoid being scammed by performers who ask for money after their act.

Free Entertainment: Enjoy free performances offered in public areas.
Avoid Paying Upfront: Don't pay for a performance before it begins.
Check Local Customs: Learn about local customs and expectations regarding performer compensation.

Avoid using fraudulent ATMs by choosing those inside banks or well-lit areas.

Bank ATMs: Use ATMs located within banks or protected areas.
Well-Lit Areas: Choose ATMs that are well-lit and in visible, busy locations.
Card Safety Measures: Use card safety measures, such as covering the keypad while entering your PIN.

Avoid fake charity scams by researching organizations and donating through reliable channels.

Reputable Organizations: Donate to reputable, well-known charities.
Reliable Donation Channels: Find official donation channels, such as their website or a trusted third party.
Ask Locals: Ask locals about which charities are trustworthy and truly make a difference.

Avoid overpriced souvenirs by negotiating prices or shopping around for the best deals.

Negotiation: Negotiate prices for your souvenirs to get a better deal.
Shop Around: Compare prices at different shops before making a purchase.
Avoid Rush: Take your time shopping to ensure you're getting the best price and selection.

Avoid unlicensed guide services by checking for official permits or booking through reputable tour agencies.

Official Permits: Verify that guides have the proper licenses and permits.
Reputable Tour Agencies: Book guided tours through established, reliable tour agencies.
Online Research: Research local tourism regulations and requirements for guides.