Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Queens, New York, United States
1. Airport Taxi Scam
Unscrupulous taxi drivers may overcharge unsuspecting travelers at JFK airport. Be aware of fixed rates and avoid solicitation outside the official taxi queue.
- Awareness: Be informed about the official taxi rate from JFK to Queens
- Official Queue: Always take a taxi from the designated queue at the airport
- Fixed Rates: Confirm the fare before starting your journey to avoid unexpected charges
2. Subway Fare Evasion Scam
Some passengers may try to avoid paying subway fares in Queens. Always validate your ticket and avoid boarding trains through the emergency exits.
- Ticket Validation: Always validate your MetroCard before entering the subway system
- Avoid Emergency Exits: Never board trains through emergency exits to avoid fare evasion accusations
- Know the Rules: Understand and follow subway fare rules to avoid penalties or fines
3. Street Vendor Scam
Some street vendors may offer low-quality or overpriced goods. Verify the quality of items and compare prices before purchasing.
- Quality Assurance: Check for product authenticity and durability
- Price Comparison: Compare prices with other vendors to ensure a fair deal
- Official Vendors: Prefer purchasing from authorized and regulated vendors
4. Parking Lot Scam
Dishonest parking lot attendants may charge inflated fees or damage your vehicle. Park in official lots and verify the cost beforehand.
- Official Lots: Always park in official, regulated parking lots
- Cost Verification: Ask about the parking rate before leaving your vehicle
- Damage Inspection: Inspect your vehicle for any damage before and after parking
5. Fake Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed tour guides may offer poor service or lead you to unofficial attractions. Only use licensed tour guides and verify their credentials.
- Licensed Guides: Always check if your guide is licensed by the NYC Department of Consumer Affairs
- Credentials Verification: Request identification and proof of licensing from your tour guide
- Official Attractions: Visit only officially recognized tourist attractions to avoid scams
6. Counterfeit Goods Scam
Some shops may sell counterfeit goods. Be cautious when purchasing high-priced items and verify the authenticity.
- Authenticity Verification: Check for holograms, serial numbers, or other security features
- Pricing: Compare prices with reputable sellers to ensure a fair deal
- Brand Reputation: Research the brands you're interested in before making any purchases
7. ATM Skimming Scam
Thieves may use card skimmers on ATMs to steal your financial information. Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping malls and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- ATM Location: Use ATMs located in well-lit, busy areas to minimize the risk of skimming
- Bank or Mall ATMs: Prefer using ATMs inside banks or shopping malls for added security
- Keypad Covering: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent any potential camera spying
8. Charity Scam
Some individuals may use charity collections to scam unsuspecting victims. Only donate to reputable charities and verify their legitimacy.
- Reputable Charities: Donate only to well-known, registered charities
- Legitimacy Verification: Research the charity before donating to ensure they are legitimate
- Secure Donation Methods: Prefer using secure online donation platforms or providing donations directly through the charity's office
9. Car Towing Scam
Dishonest tow truck drivers may wrongly tow your vehicle or charge inflated fees. Always park in designated areas and verify the cost beforehand.
- Designated Parking Areas: Always park in official, regulated parking lots or spots
- Cost Verification: Ask about the towing rate before leaving your vehicle
- Authorized Towing Companies: Verify that the tow truck driver is from an authorized and regulated company
10. Phishing Scam
Cybercriminals may try to steal your personal information through emails or websites. Be wary of suspicious emails and verify the authenticity of websites before entering any sensitive information.
- Suspicious Email Avoidance: Never click on links or open attachments from unknown senders
- Website Verification: Check the URL for any suspicious activity before entering sensitive information
- Security Software: Install and maintain security software on your devices to protect against phishing attacks
11. Home Repair Scam
Some home repair workers may offer subpar service or charge inflated fees. Research local repair companies and get multiple estimates before hiring anyone.
- Local Repair Companies: Always choose a reputable, locally established home repair company
- Multiple Estimates: Request and compare estimates from at least three different companies
- Warranty Offerings: Ask for warranties or guarantees on the work to be performed
12. Fake Accident Scam
Individuals may stage accidents to extort money from unsuspecting victims. Maintain awareness of your surroundings and avoid giving money or personal information in such situations.
- Awareness: Stay vigilant when walking alone, especially at night
- Personal Information Protection: Never share your personal or financial information with strangers
- Report Suspicious Activity: Inform the local police if you witness any suspicious activity
13. Counterfeit Money Scam
Some merchants may accept counterfeit bills and keep the legitimate currency. Inspect your money carefully before making transactions.
- Money Inspection: Inspect all notes for any inconsistencies in size, texture, or design
- Bill Serial Numbers: Compare the bill's serial numbers to ensure they match
- Lighting Conditions: Check your bills under different lighting conditions to spot any irregularities
14. Dine and Dash Scam
Some diners may dine and dash, leaving the restaurant without paying. Be cautious when dining at unfamiliar establishments and pay your bill promptly.
- Familiar Restaurants: Prefer dining at well-known restaurants with good reviews
- Payment Method: Use credit cards or other secure payment methods to ensure you're not overcharged
- Prompt Payment: Always pay your bill promptly to avoid any issues with the restaurant staff
15. Timeshare Presentation Scam
Some timeshare companies may pressure you into purchasing a timeshare or provide misleading information. Be cautious when attending timeshare presentations and do your research beforehand.
- Research: Investigate the company's reputation, offerings, and customer reviews
- Pressure Avoidance: Do not feel obligated to make a decision on the spot
- Contract Review: Thoroughly review all contracts before signing anything