Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Shantou, China

1. Counterfeit Taxi Scams

Avoid unofficial taxis that may overcharge or lead to other scams. Always use registered taxi services.

Registration Check: Check for registration number and official logo on the vehicle.
Meter Usage: Ensure the taxi uses a meter for fare calculation.
Safety Measures: Avoid sharing taxis with unfamiliar passengers, especially at night.

Beware of fake attraction tickets sold by street vendors. Buy tickets only from official sales points.

Official Sales Point: Look for signs or staff uniforms indicating an official ticket sale point.
Ticket Quality: Genuine tickets have a high-quality finish and clear printing.
Price Comparison: Compare ticket prices with reliable sources to avoid overpaying.

Avoid unofficial currency exchange booths. Use authorized exchange centers or banks for safe and fair transactions.

License Check: Look for a license number on the exchange counter.
Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates with reliable sources to avoid overpaying or receiving less money.
Security Measures: Use ATMs in secure areas or inside banks for safer withdrawals.

Avoid unofficial tour guides who may lead to scam situations. Use registered and licensed guides only.

Registration Check: Look for a registration number or ID card on the guide.
Recommendations: Book guides through reliable sources like hotels or tourist offices.
Payment Method: Avoid paying large sums of money upfront and agree on a fair payment structure.

Avoid booking accommodations through unverified websites or individuals. Use reputable platforms or travel agencies.

Website Verification: Check for secure website addresses (HTTPS) and customer reviews.
Contact Information: Ensure the accommodation provider provides clear contact information.
Payment Security: Use secure payment methods like credit cards or verified online payment systems.

Avoid street food vendors who do not display health certificates. Eat at reputable restaurants or street stalls with a hygienic setup.

Health Certificate: Look for a visible health certificate on the vendor's stand.
Hygiene Conditions: Check if the food is properly cooked, stored, and displayed.
Customer Reviews: Consider customer reviews when choosing a street food vendor.

Avoid using unverified internet cafés. Use reputable ones for secure online transactions.

License Check: Look for a license number on the café's wall or counter.
Security Measures: Avoid using public computers for sensitive information and use a VPN for secure connections.
Payment Method: Use credit cards or verified online payment systems instead of cash transactions.

Be aware of restaurants that may overcharge foreigners. Compare prices with reliable sources before dining.

Price Comparison: Compare prices with reliable sources like local menus or online research.
Menu Translation: Use a translation app to understand the menu and avoid misunderstandings.
Payment Negotiation: Negotiate prices before ordering and settle payment discrepancies politely.

Avoid purchasing souvenirs from unverified vendors. Buy from reputable shops or markets.

Shop Reputation: Consider the shop's reputation and reviews before making a purchase.
Product Quality: Check for high-quality materials and craftsmanship in souvenirs.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with reliable sources to avoid overpaying.

Be prepared for aggressive bargaining in markets. Know the market value of items and negotiate fairly.

Market Value Research: Research the fair market value before bargaining.
Negotiation Skills: Learn basic negotiation skills and be firm but fair in your offers.
Avoiding Disputes: Avoid arguing with vendors to maintain a positive shopping experience.

Avoid unverified money exchange services. Use reputable ones for safe and fair transactions.

License Check: Look for a license number on the exchange counter.
Exchange Rates: Compare exchange rates with reliable sources to avoid overpaying or receiving less money.
Security Measures: Use ATMs in secure areas or inside banks for safer withdrawals.

Avoid unofficial sim card vendors. Buy from official stores or authorized dealers.

Store Verification: Check if the store is an authorized dealer.
Sim Card Price: Compare sim card prices with reliable sources to avoid overpaying.
Customer Support: Ensure the vendor provides clear information about the sim card's functions and usage.

Avoid booking tour packages through unverified vendors. Use reputable travel agencies or online platforms.

Company Verification: Research the travel agency or platform's reputation and reviews.
Package Details: Ensure the tour package details are clearly stated and meet your expectations.
Payment Security: Use secure payment methods like credit cards or verified online payment systems.

Avoid unnecessary escorts who may lead to scam situations. Decline unwanted offers and stick with registered guides.

Registration Check: Check if the escort is a registered guide.
Safety Measures: Avoid accepting escorts at unfamiliar or isolated locations.
Legitimate Introductions: Accept escorts only through reputable sources like hotels or tourist offices.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit products from unverified shops. Buy from reputable stores or markets.

Shop Reputation: Consider the shop's reputation and reviews before making a purchase.
Product Quality: Check for high-quality materials and craftsmanship in products.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with reliable sources to avoid overpaying or finding counterfeit products.