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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Research accommodation prices before traveling. Negotiate if necessary.

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.

Keep your belongings close. Avoid overly crowded areas when possible.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.