Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Rosario, Argentina

Rosario, Argentina, Rosario, Local Insights & Practical Info, Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Rosario, Argentina

1. Taxis at Rosario Airport Scam

Unregulated taxis outside the airport can overcharge tourists. Always use prepaid taxi service or official app-based taxis.
  • Overcharging: Taxis outside airport may charge more than official taxis.
  • Safety: Official taxis are safer and regulated.
  • Prepaid Option: Prepaid taxi service guarantees fixed price.

2. Counterfeit Money Scam

Criminals may give tourists fake Argentine Pesos in change. Always check the bills carefully.
  • Fake Bills: Counterfeit bills are similar to real ones.
  • Checking the Bills: Inspect each bill carefully for discrepancies.
  • Bank Exchange: Exchange money at banks instead of street vendors.

3. Coin Swapping Scam

Criminals may swap your coins for lighter ones in a busy place. Always count your change.
  • Lighter Coins: Swapped coins are usually lighter.
  • Counting Change: Always count change to make sure you received the correct amount.
  • Busy Places: Scam is more likely to happen in crowded places.

4. Pickpocketing at Bus Stations

Criminals may target tourists at bus stations. Use a money belt and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Money Belt: Protects important items from being stolen.
  • Awareness: Stay aware of your belongings and surroundings.
  • Bus Stations: Increased risk due to large number of people passing through.

5. ATM Skimming Scam

Criminals can install skimmers on ATMs to steal your card information. Use well-lit and busy ATMs, and cover the keypad when entering PIN.
  • Skimmer: Device installed on ATM to capture card data.
  • Well-lit and Busy ATMs: Less likely for criminals to target these ATMs.
  • Covering the Keypad: Prevents others from seeing your PIN.

6. Fraudulent Guides in Rosario

Unlicensed guides may offer their services and overcharge tourists. Always ask for an official guide or use reputable tour companies.
  • Overcharging: Licensed guides have fixed prices, unlicensed ones may charge more.
  • Official Guide: Ensure your guide is licensed to operate tours in Rosario.
  • Reputable Tour Companies: Book through well-known and trusted tour providers.

7. Falsely Claimed Discounts at Restaurants

Restaurants may claim to offer discounts but charge regular prices. Always check the bill before paying.
  • Checking the Bill: Always verify the total price on the bill.
  • Regular Prices: Restaurants may falsely claim discounts to attract customers.
  • Negotiation: Negotiating prices can help avoid misunderstandings about discounts.

8. Fraudulent Shops and Markets

Some shops may sell low-quality items at inflated prices. Research shops and markets before visiting.
  • Low-Quality Items: Items sold in these stores may not meet the quality expected.
  • Inflated Prices: Prices for items are often higher than market average.
  • Research Shops and Markets: Check reviews and ask locals for recommendations.

9. Street Performers Demanding Money

Some performers may demand payment after performing unexpectedly. Only tip for quality performances.
  • Unexpected Demands: Performers may demand money without asking beforehand.
  • Quality Performances: Only tip for enjoyable and high-quality performances.
  • Avoiding Conflict: Refuse to pay if the performance was not up to expectations.

10. Fraudulent Charities and Street Children

Some street children may claim to be part of a charity scam. Do not give money directly, instead donate through reputable organizations.
  • Charity Scams: Children may falsely claim to be part of a charity.
  • Reputable Organizations: Donate through established and reputable charities.
  • Direct Giving: Giving money directly can encourage further begging.

11. Overpriced Public Wi-Fi Hotspots

Public Wi-Fi hotspots may charge for access or have slow speeds. Use hotels, cafes, and libraries for internet access.
  • Charging for Access: Some public Wi-Fi hotspots may charge a fee for access.
  • Slow Speeds: Public Wi-Fi can have slower speeds than paid options.
  • Hotels, Cafes, and Libraries: These establishments offer free and fast Wi-Fi access.

12. Fake Tours and Attractions

Some tour operators may overpromise or misrepresent tours and attractions. Research and book through reputable providers.
  • Overpromising: Tour operators may exaggerate what will be provided.
  • Reputable Providers: Book tours through established and trusted providers.
  • Research: Check reviews, ask locals, and research the tour and attractions before booking.

13. Lost Item Scams in Rosario

Criminals may find and return a lost item with the intention of asking for a reward later. Keep important items safe.
  • Returning Lost Items: Criminals return lost items to gain trust.
  • Important Items Safety: Keep important items safe and secure at all times.
  • Reporting Lost Items: Report lost items to authorities as soon as possible.

14. Fraudulent Car Rentals in Rosario

Car rental agencies may charge for damage that was already present or offer cars with hidden issues. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before driving.
  • Charging for Pre-existing Damage: Rental companies may charge for damage already on the car.
  • Hidden Issues: Cars may have undisclosed issues that can cause problems during rental.
  • Thorough Inspection: Inspect the car before and after driving to avoid unnecessary charges.

15. Counterfeit Souvenirs in Rosario

Some souvenir shops may sell counterfeit or low-quality items. Research shops and ask locals for recommendations.
  • Counterfeit Items: Items may be fake, inferior, or not authentic.
  • Low-Quality Items: Items may have lower quality than expected.
  • Research Shops and Locals: Check reviews, ask locals, and research shops before buying souvenirs.