Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Raipur, India

1. Auto-rickshaw Scam

Unfair pricing on auto-rickshaws. Avoid by using pre-paid auto booths or negotiating fare beforehand.

Pre-paid Auto Booths: Official meter-based fare for a hassle-free ride
Negotiation: Avoid overcharging by fixing the price before starting the journey
Awareness: Knowledge of fair auto-rickshaw rates in Raipur helps avoid being ripped off

Booked hotel rooms unavailable. Book through reliable sources and confirm reservations.

Reliable Sources: Book hotels from reputable travel websites or agents
Confirmation: Double-check your reservations before arriving at the hotel
Communication: Contact the hotel in advance to confirm availability and room details

Overcharging or taking longer routes. Hire a prepaid taxi or agree on fare beforehand.

Prepaid Taxi: Official meter-based fare for a hassle-free ride
Fare Agreement: Avoid overcharging by fixing the price before starting the journey
Trusted Sources: Hire taxis from reliable sources to avoid dishonest drivers

Fake Indian Rupee notes in circulation. Check currency carefully and only use ATMs from reputable banks.

Reputable Bank ATMs: Reduce the risk of receiving counterfeit notes
Check Currency: Inspect notes carefully for any irregularities
Change Only at Banks: Exchange money only at banks or authorized exchange centers to ensure authenticity

Unlicensed guides offering tour services. Use licensed guides from reliable sources.

Licensed Guides: Ensure the guide is registered and licensed by the local authorities
Reliable Sources: Book tours from reputable travel agencies or online platforms
Check for Licenses: Ask guides to show their official guide license before hiring them

Stores selling counterfeit or low-quality items. Buy from reputable shops and marketplaces.

Reputable Shops: Shop at well-known stores and brands
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors often sell counterfeit or low-quality goods
Check Reviews: Read online reviews before shopping at a new store to ensure quality products and services

Criminals skim card information using hidden devices on ATMs. Use ATMs in well-lit and busy areas.

Well-Lit and Busy Areas: Reduces the risk of ATM skimming
Cover Your Hand: Place your hand over the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent any cameras from recording it
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your bank account for any unauthorized transactions

Fake police officers asking for bribes or taking valuables. Carry a photocopy of your ID and know local emergency numbers.

Photocopy of ID: Avoid handing over the original ID to any unknown individuals
Know Emergency Numbers: Call local emergency numbers if you are stopped by unidentified police officers
Avoid Isolated Areas: Stay in well-lit and populated areas to reduce the risk of encountering fraudulent police officers

Overpriced or fake gold jewelry. Buy from reputable jewelry shops and always ask for a purity certificate.

Reputable Shops: Shop at well-known jewelry stores
Purity Certificate: Ensure gold jewelry has a purity certificate from a recognized hallmarking organization
Check Prices: Compare prices of similar items at multiple shops to ensure fair pricing

Unregistered SIM cards that may be used for illegal activities. Buy from authorized vendors and register the SIM card immediately.

Authorized Vendors: Buy SIM cards only from authorized vendors
Registration: Register the SIM card with your passport or Aadhaar card information to avoid any issues
Beware of Street Vendors: Street vendors may sell unregistered SIM cards that can be used for illegal activities

Unsanitary food conditions leading to illness. Stick to popular and clean street food vendors.

Popular Street Food Vendors: Choose well-known and reputable street food vendors
Cleanliness: Look for clean food preparation areas and utensils
Avoid Eating Street Food at Night: Street food vendors at night may not maintain the same hygiene standards as during the day

Highly overpriced carpets in local markets. Negotiate prices and compare with other shops.

Negotiation: Avoid paying the initial asking price by negotiating
Compare Prices: Check prices of similar carpets at multiple shops to ensure fair pricing
Reputable Shops: Shop at well-known carpet stores and brands

Strangers offering friendship to exploit you. Maintain a safe distance with strangers and don't share personal information.

Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Don't disclose sensitive information, such as your passport number or credit card details
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance with strangers and be wary of their intentions
Trust Your Gut Feeling: If something feels off, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation

Infected computers with viruses or keyloggers. Use trustworthy internet cafés and avoid saving personal information.

Trustworthy Internet Cafés: Choose well-known and reputable internet cafes
Avoid Saving Personal Information: Don't save personal information, such as login credentials or credit card details on shared computers
Use VPN Services: Use a reliable VPN service to protect your online privacy and security while using public Wi-Fi

Fake priests or temples asking for donations. Research the temple before visiting and only donate to reputable organizations.

Research the Temple: Check reviews and information about the temple online
Avoid Donating Large Amounts: Donate small amounts if you choose to give, as a precaution
Only Donate to Reputable Organizations: Look for official donation boxes or only donate through recognized religious organizations