Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Santos, São Paulo, Brazil

All Topics about Santos All Cities in Brazil

1. Beach Vendor Scams

Avoid overpriced or fake merchandise sold on Santos' beaches. Be wary of persistent sellers offering bargains.

Bargaining Tips: Know the local prices and don't be afraid to negotiate.
Official Shops: Purchase from official shops in city centers for guaranteed authentic items.
Safety Measures: Stay aware of your belongings and don't carry large amounts of cash.

Avoid taxi scams by using only authorized taxis or ride-hailing apps. Be careful when choosing a taxi from the street.

Ride-Hailing Apps: Download popular ride-hailing apps and use them to book your rides.
Official Taxis: Recognize official taxis by their license plates, stickers, and meter readings.
Negotiated Fares: Agree on a fare before starting your journey to avoid unexpected charges.

Protect yourself from ATM skimming by choosing well-lit, busy locations. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.

Bank's ATMs: Use ATMs of reputable banks in shopping centers or tourist areas.
Monitor Transactions: Regularly check your account transactions for any unusual activity.
Travel Credit Cards: Consider using travel credit cards with fraud protection for extra security.

Identify and avoid counterfeit money by checking the quality of bills. Know the security features of Brazilian currency.

Security Features: Familiarize yourself with the security elements of Brazilian banknotes.
Exchange Only at Banks: Exchange money only at banks or authorized exchange offices.
Check Change: Always check the change you receive to ensure it's authentic.

Avoid business card scams by verifying the contact details of people you meet. Be cautious when sharing your own information.

Verify Contacts: Verify the authenticity of contacts by calling their offices or checking their emails.
Avoid Giving Too Much: Limit the personal information you share with strangers.
Use Reputable Services: Register for tours or activities through established and reputable providers.

Avoid being tricked into giving money to unsolicited performers. Be aware of distractions while walking in crowded areas.

Free Performances: Enjoy free performances by established street artists in designated areas.
Donation Boxes: Give donations through designated boxes or official collection points.
Report Suspicious Behavior: Contact local authorities if you witness any suspicious activity.

Avoid fake tour guides by booking tours through reputable providers. Ask for identification and be cautious when choosing a guide.

Reputable Providers: Book tours through established and reputable travel agencies.
Identification Check: Ask for proper identification from your tour guide.
Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and ask for recommendations before choosing a tour provider.

Avoid overpriced restaurants by researching local dining options. Compare prices with other establishments in the area.

Local Cuisine: Try local dishes at affordable, authentic eateries.
Online Reviews: Read reviews and compare prices of restaurants online before visiting.
Ask Locals: Ask locals for recommendations on good, affordable restaurants.

Avoid hotel room scams by booking rooms through reputable providers. Inspect the room thoroughly upon arrival.

Reputable Providers: Book accommodation through established and reputable booking platforms.
Room Inspection: Inspect the room for any signs of tampering or damage upon arrival.
Contact Hotel: Contact the hotel directly if you suspect anything unusual with your reservation.

Avoid unlicensed massages by only booking at reputable spas or massage parlors. Ask for credentials from the therapist.

Reputable Spas: Book massages at well-established and reputable spas or massage parlors.
Credentials Check: Ask the therapist for their credentials and proof of registration.
Professional Conduct: Ensure the therapist follows professional conduct during your massage session.

Avoid overpriced souvenirs by researching local market prices. Bargain for a lower price if necessary.

Market Prices: Research the typical cost of souvenirs at local markets.
Bargaining Skills: Develop your bargaining skills to negotiate a fair price for your desired souvenir.
Official Shops: Purchase souvenirs from official shops or reputable vendors for guaranteed authenticity.

Avoid sim card scams by only purchasing them at authorized retailers. Be aware of fake sellers offering discounted rates.

Authorized Retailers: Purchase SIM cards from authorized retailers or official carrier stores.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy SIM cards from street vendors or unauthorized sellers.
Check Coverage and Prices: Research coverage areas and compare prices before purchasing a SIM card.

Avoid charity scams by donating to reputable organizations. Be wary of people soliciting donations on the street.

Reputable Charities: Research and donate to well-established and reputable charities.
Avoid Street Solicitations: Do not give money to people soliciting on the street, instead donate through official channels.
Legitimate Donation Boxes: Use legitimate donation boxes or collection points for your contributions.

Avoid unsafe water activities by only using authorized services. Ensure proper safety equipment is provided.

Authorized Services: Book water activities through authorized and reputable providers.
Safety Equipment: Check that the provider offers proper safety equipment for each activity.
Life Jackets: Ensure life jackets are provided and properly fitted before participating in water activities.

Avoid fraudulent ticket sales by only purchasing from authorized vendors. Be cautious when buying tickets for events or attractions.

Authorized Vendors: Purchase tickets from official venues, event websites, or reputable ticket agents.
Check Event Dates and Times: Verify the dates, times, and locations of events before purchasing tickets.
Avoid Street Vendors: Do not buy tickets from street vendors or unauthorized sellers.