
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Reynosa, Mexico
1. Taxi Scams
Avoid unlicensed taxis. Some drivers may overcharge or take longer routes.
- Unlicensed Drivers: Driving without a license is illegal and increases the risk of being scammed.
- Overcharging: Some drivers may overcharge tourists due to their perceived wealth.
- Longer Routes: Drivers may take longer routes to increase the fare.
2. Counterfeit Money
Be aware of counterfeit bills. Some vendors might accept them and then claim they are fake.
- Counterfeit Bills: Counterfeit money looks similar to genuine Mexican pesos.
- Vendors: Vendors may unknowingly accept counterfeit bills or intentionally pass them on.
- Checking: Counterfeit detection methods can be difficult for untrained eyes.
3. ATM Skimming
Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit areas. Cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
- ATMs in Banks: Bank ATMs are less likely to be compromised than standalone machines.
- Well-lit Areas: Poorly lit areas can make it easier for thieves to install skimming devices.
- Keypad Covering: Covering the keypad prevents others from seeing your PIN.
4. Fraudulent Police Officers
Ask for identification if stopped by police. Don't hand over valuables or money.
- Impersonators: Some individuals may pose as police officers to commit fraud.
- Identification Check: Police officers should always carry and show their identification.
- Valuables and Money: Never hand over valuables or money without proper documentation.
5. Fraudulent Guides
Book guided tours through reputable agencies. Be wary of unsolicited offers.
- Reputable Agencies: Agencies with a good reputation are less likely to scam tourists.
- Unsolicited Offers: Offers from strangers may lead to overpriced or poor quality tours.
- Tour Quality: Guides should provide accurate information and good service.
6. Overpriced Accommodations
Research accommodation prices before traveling. Negotiate if necessary.
- Price Research: Knowing the average price helps prevent overpaying.
- Negotiation: Bargaining can help secure a better deal.
- Reputation: Choose accommodations with good reviews and ratings.
7. Street Food Risks
Avoid street food from unhygienic stands. Stick to popular, well-reviewed places.
- Unhygienic Stands: Unclean conditions increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Popular Places: Busy street food stalls usually have better hygiene practices.
- Well-Reviewed: Positive reviews indicate that the food is safe and good.
8. Pickpocketing
Keep your belongings close. Avoid overly crowded areas when possible.
- Overly Crowded Areas: Crowds make it easier for pickpockets to blend in.
- Belongings: Keep your belongings secure and out of sight.
- Valuable Items: Minimize the amount of valuables you carry.
9. Exchange Rate Scams
Use reputable exchange offices. Check rates before exchanging money.
- Reputable Offices: Offices with good reviews and many positive customer experiences are less likely to scam.
- Check Rates: Knowing the exchange rate helps prevent overpaying.
- Multiple Offers: Compare rates from multiple offices before deciding.
10. Bridge Toll Scams
Use the official toll booths. Be cautious of strangers offering to pay for you.
- Official Booths: The official booths have a visible presence and proper signage.
- Strangers Offering Help: Strangers may offer to pay for tolls but demand an inflated price later.
- Toll Prices: Know the toll prices before crossing bridges or highways.
11. Bar Scams
Stay at popular bars with good reviews. Be cautious of overpriced drinks.
- Popular Bars: Busy bars usually have honest practices.
- Overpriced Drinks: Some bars may overprice drinks, especially in tourist areas.
- Good Reviews: Positive reviews indicate that the bar is a good place to visit.
12. Bus Scams
Use only official buses. Be cautious of individuals offering help or shortcuts.
- Official Buses: Official buses have proper signage, a visible presence, and tickets.
- Individuals Offering Help: Some individuals may offer help but lead you to unofficial or overpriced services.
- Shortcuts: Shortcuts may be less safe and more expensive than the official route.
13. Market Scams
Bargain for prices. Be wary of low-quality or counterfeit goods.
- Bargaining: Negotiating the price can help you get a better deal.
- Low-Quality Goods: Some vendors may sell low-quality goods at high prices.
- Counterfeit Goods: Be cautious of counterfeit goods to avoid legal issues and wasting money.
14. Hotel Room Scams
Check the room before accepting it. Be cautious of rooms asking for deposits upfront.
- Room Inspection: Inspecting the room before accepting it helps ensure its condition.
- Deposit Requests: Asking for a deposit upfront may be a scam to get your money and provide a subpar service.
- Room Quality: The quality of the room should match the price you are paying.
15. Car Rental Scams
Rent from reputable agencies. Inspect the car before driving off.
- Reputable Agencies: Agencies with a good reputation are less likely to scam.
- Car Inspection: Inspecting the car before driving off helps ensure its condition.
- Rental Contract: Read and understand the rental contract to avoid hidden fees or obligations.