Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Brazil
1. Counterfeit Currency Scam
Be wary of receiving fake Brazilian reais in change at shops and restaurants. Always check the authenticity of bills.
- Know Real Bills: Familiarize yourself with the design, texture, and security features of genuine Brazilian reais.
- Avoid Large Transactions: Opt for smaller transactions to minimize the chances of receiving counterfeit money.
- Use ATMs: Withdraw money from reputable ATMs or banks to ensure the authenticity of your cash.
2. Overcharging at Restaurants
Some restaurants may charge tourists more than locals for the same meal. Always ask for the menu or check prices before ordering.
- Ask for the Menu: Always request the menu to avoid unexpected charges and compare prices with other establishments.
- Check Local Prices: Research local prices online or ask locals to ensure you're not being overcharged.
- Pay Attention to the Bill: Review your bill carefully before paying, as some restaurants may add unnecessary charges.
3. Taxi Scams
Some taxi drivers may refuse to use the meter or overcharge tourists. Use licensed taxis and agree on a price before starting the journey.
- Use Licensed Taxis: Only take taxis that are properly licensed and display the name of the company.
- Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings or overcharging.
- Avoid Unmarked Taxis: Do not take unmarked taxis, as they may be operating illegally and potentially dangerous.
4. Fake Tour Guides
Some individuals pose as tour guides to offer cheap or free tours, but will later demand excessive payments. Research and book tours from reputable agencies.
- Check Reviews: Research the tour company online and read reviews to ensure their reputation.
- Book in Advance: Book tours well in advance to avoid being approached by unscrupulous individuals.
- Ask for Proof of Licence: Insist on seeing the tour guide's licence and ID before starting the tour.
5. Lottery Scam
Be cautious of strangers who approach you with offers to win a fake lottery or prize. Ignore these approaches and do not provide personal information.
- Ignore Unsolicited Offers: Never accept unsolicited offers, especially those involving lotteries or prizes.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities if you encounter any suspicious activity related to these scams.
- Secure Personal Information: Keep your personal information secure and avoid sharing it with strangers.
6. Friendship Scam
Scammers may try to build a friendship with you in order to gain your trust and access your finances. Be wary of overly friendly strangers, especially those who ask for money.
- Be Skeptical: Trust your instincts and be cautious when meeting new people, especially if they ask for financial help.
- Research the Person: Use social media or other resources to research a person before sharing personal information with them.
- Never Send Money to Strangers: Never send money to someone you don't know, even if they claim to be in an emergency.
7. ATM Skimming
Criminals may install devices on ATMs to steal your card information. Always cover the keypad and use well-lit, secure ATMs.
- Use Well-Lit, Secure ATMs: Choose ATMs that are located in well-lit, populated areas and have security cameras.
- Check the ATM for Skimming Devices: Inspect the ATM for any suspicious devices before using it, such as small cameras or additional card readers.
- Monitor Your Account: Regularly monitor your account to catch any unauthorized transactions.
8. Airport Transfer Scam
Some individuals may offer airport transfers at a lower price, but will overcharge or take you to an unauthorized location. Use pre-booked and licensed transfer services.
- Pre-Book Transfers: Always book airport transfers in advance from reputable companies.
- Use Licensed Services: Only use licensed and authorized transfer services to ensure your safety and security.
- Negotiate Price Beforehand: Always negotiate the price before starting your journey to avoid any misunderstandings or overcharging.
9. Car Rental Scam
Some car rental companies may charge excessive fees or damage the vehicle before renting it to you. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before driving off.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the car for any existing damages before signing the rental agreement.
- Check Rental Agreement: Read the rental agreement carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
- Use Reputable Companies: Choose well-known and reputable car rental companies to minimize the risk of scams.
10. Hotel Scam
Some hotels may charge more than their advertised rates or offer subpar service. Research and book rooms in advance from reputable hotel chains.
- Research Hotels: Research the hotel online, read reviews, and compare prices with other establishments.
- Book in Advance: Book rooms well in advance to avoid being approached by unscrupulous individuals.
- Check the Room Beforehand: Inspect the room for any issues before accepting it and asking for any necessary changes.
11. Street Performance Scam
Some street performers may demand more money than their performance is worth. Watch the performance and negotiate a fair price beforehand.
- Watch the Performance: Watch the entire performance to ensure it's worth the requested payment.
- Negotiate a Fair Price: Ask for the performer's price beforehand and negotiate a fair price based on the quality of their act.
- Tip Appropriately: If you find the performance enjoyable, tip the performer an appropriate amount.
12. Internet Café Scam
Some internet cafés may install malware on your device or charge excessive rates. Use reputable internet cafes and avoid using unsecured public Wi-Fi.
- Use Reputable Internet Cafés: Choose internet cafes that have good reviews and are located in safe areas.
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Use a VPN or avoid using public Wi-Fi networks to protect your data from being stolen.
- Secure Your Device: Install antivirus software on your device and keep it up to date to minimize the risk of malware infection.
13. Beggar Scam
Some beggars may use children or tell emotional stories to gain sympathy and your money. Be cautious when giving money to street beggars.
- Be Careful with Money: Be careful when handing out money, as some beggars may be scammers.
- Support Local Charities Instead: If you want to help, donate to local charities instead of giving money directly to beggars.
- Avoid Emotional Responses: Resist emotional responses and make rational decisions when encountering street beggars.
14. Bottled Water Scam
Some vendors may sell bottled water that has been opened or tampered with. Only buy bottled water from reputable sources.
- Buy from Reputable Sources: Only buy bottled water from reputable vendors, such as supermarkets or shops.
- Check the Seal: Ensure that the seal on the bottled water is intact and has not been tampered with.
- Avoid Street Vendors: Avoid buying bottled water from street vendors, as they may sell contaminated or opened water.
15. Gold or Jewelry Scam
Some merchants may offer gold or jewelry at inflated prices or of lower quality than advertised. Research the market value and shop around for a fair deal.
- Research Market Value: Research the current market value of gold or jewelry before making a purchase.
- Shop Around: Compare prices at multiple shops to find the best deal.
- Check Quality: Inspect the item carefully before purchasing and ask for a certificate of authenticity.