Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, Netherlands
1. Central Station Scam
A common scam where criminals approach tourists, claiming there is a problem with their train ticket or luggage. Avoid by double-checking your tickets and valuables.
- Unsolicited Help: Unexpected help offered could be a trick
- Train Ticket Checking: Always check your own train ticket
- High Foot Traffic: Scams often occur in high traffic areas like Central Station
2. Taxi Overcharging
Taxis may overcharge unsuspecting tourists. Use authorized taxi services or apps for a fair price.
- Authorized Services: Only use taxis from authorized companies
- Price Checking: Always check the price before starting your journey
- Taxi Apps: Use taxi apps for a fair and transparent pricing
3. Pickpocketing at Markets
Markets can be hotspots for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and aware of your surroundings.
- Crowded Areas: Pickpockets often operate in crowded areas
- Secure Belongings: Keep your belongings close and secure at all times
- Awareness: Be aware of your surroundings and possible threats
4. Fraudulent Wi-Fi Hotspots
Free Wi-Fi hotspots may be fraudulent, putting your personal information at risk. Use trusted sources for internet access.
- Secure Internet Access: Use secure and trusted Wi-Fi networks
- Check for Secured Connections: Ensure the connection is secure before accessing sensitive information
- Public Internet Use: Limit personal information sharing on public networks
5. Overpriced Souvenirs
Some souvenir shops may overcharge tourists. Research beforehand and negotiate prices for fair deals.
- Research: Know the market price of souvenirs before purchasing
- Negotiation: Always negotiate prices to get a fair deal
- Local Shops: Purchase souvenirs from local shops rather than touristy areas
6. Counterfeit Currency Exchange
Some currency exchange offices may give counterfeit money. Use reputable exchange services or banks.
- Reputable Services: Only use well-known and reputable currency exchange services
- Check Bills: Always check the authenticity of the bills received
- Bank Exchange: Exchange money at banks for a safer and more reliable option
7. Fake Tour Guides
Unlicensed tour guides may offer their services. Look for official guides wearing badges or use authorized tour companies.
- Official Guides: Only hire licensed and officially affiliated tour guides
- Badge Checking: Check for identification badges before hiring a tour guide
- Authorized Tour Companies: Book tours through authorized and reputable companies
8. Dating Scams
Online dating scammers may try to extract money from unsuspecting tourists. Use caution when meeting strangers online and avoid sharing personal information.
- Caution: Exercise caution when meeting someone for the first time
- Personal Information Sharing: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information online
- Online Dating Sites: Choose reliable and reputable dating websites
9. Street Performers Scams
Some street performers may use distraction to steal from tourists. Observe performances carefully and keep belongings secure.
- Observation: Observe your surroundings during performances for any suspicious activity
- Keeping Belongings Secure: Keep your belongings close and secure during performances
- Legitimate Performers: Support legitimate performers, those who are registered with the city
10. Car Rental Scams
Rental cars may have hidden damage or inflated prices. Research companies and read reviews before renting a car.
- Research Companies: Thoroughly research rental car companies before making a decision
- Read Reviews: Always read reviews from previous customers to avoid scams
- Inspect the Car: Carefully inspect the rental car for any hidden damage
11. ATM Skimming
Skimming devices may be attached to ATMs. Use only ATMs inside banks or secure locations.
- Secure Locations: Use ATMs located inside banks or other secure areas
- Cover the Keypad: Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging
- Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your accounts for any unauthorized transactions
12. Ferry Ticket Scams
Ferry ticket sellers may offer overpriced or fake tickets. Buy tickets directly from the ferry company's offices.
- Official Offices: Buy tickets only from official ferry company offices
- Check for Authenticity: Always check the authenticity of your ticket before boarding
- Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying ferry tickets from street vendors to avoid scams
13. Lost Property Finders
Finders of lost property may demand a reward in exchange. If you find an item, report it to the authorities instead.
- Report Lost Items: Always report any found items to the local authorities
- Avoid Rewards: Never agree to pay a finder's fee for returned items
- Secure Storage: Store found items safely and securely until they can be claimed by their rightful owner
14. Counterfeit Goods Market
Some markets may sell counterfeit goods. Avoid purchasing expensive items from unverified vendors.
- Verified Vendors: Only purchase goods from verified and reputable vendors
- Know the Market Price: Understand the market price for the item before making a purchase
- Avoid Expensive Items: Avoid purchasing expensive items from unverified vendors
15. Phone Scams
Scammers may call pretending to be from a phone company, asking for sensitive information. Hang up and contact the company directly.
- Call Directly: If you receive such calls, hang up and call the phone company directly
- Never Share Info Over Calls: Never share sensitive information over phone calls unless initiated by you
- Verify Identification: Always verify the caller's identity before providing any information