Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Sŏngnam, Korea, South

1. Taxi Scam Warning Signs

Learn about common taxi scams in Songnam and how to avoid them, such as overcharging or taking a longer route.

Meter Tampering: Avoid taxis with no working meter.
Refusing Fare Meter: Make sure the taxi driver uses the fare meter.
Unfamiliar Destination: Be cautious when using taxis to unfamiliar destinations.

Avoid food poisoning and overpriced items by knowing the signs of street food scams.

Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods by knowing the signs of a fake market.

Protect yourself from ATM skimming by knowing the signs and avoiding potential scams.

Unusual Card Reader: Check for loose, tampered, or additional card readers.
Crowded ATM Area: Choose well-lit and less crowded ATMs.
Shoulder Surfing: Shield your PIN entry with one hand while inserting the card with the other.

Buy sim cards from authorized retailers to avoid getting scammed.

Unlicensed Retailer: Avoid buying sim cards from street vendors or unauthorized shops.
High Costs: Compare prices with authorized retailers to ensure fair pricing.
Incomplete Package: Ensure you receive a complete sim card package including instruction manual and SIM tray.

Recognize the signs of a tour guide scam to ensure you have a legitimate guide.

No Tour Company Affiliation: Ask for proof of affiliation with a reputable tour company.
Unrealistic Pricing: Compare prices with other guides and companies to ensure fair pricing.
Lack of Knowledge: Check their knowledge about Songnam landmarks and attractions.

Verify Airbnb rentals to avoid scams and ensure a safe stay.

Protect your information by avoiding potential internet cafe scams.

Unsecured Wi-Fi: Avoid using unsecured public networks.
Keyboard Tracking: Use a keyboard cover or be cautious when typing sensitive information.
Strange Behavior: Be aware of staff members monitoring your activities.

Recognize public transportation scams to avoid overpaying or putting yourself in dangerous situations.

Station Employee Fraud: Avoid giving personal information or money to station employees unless necessary.
Counterfeit Tickets: Check the validity of your ticket before boarding.
Strangers Offering Help: Be wary of strangers offering help, as they may be trying to scam you.

Avoid ticket scams by purchasing tickets from authorized vendors or event organizers.

Unlicensed Seller: Buy tickets only from the official event website or authorized resellers.
High Ticket Prices: Compare ticket prices with other sellers to ensure fair pricing.
Counterfeit Tickets: Check for holograms, barcodes, or other security features on the tickets.

Avoid overpricing and scams by knowing the signs at bars and clubs.

Inflated Drink Prices: Compare drink prices with other venues to ensure fair pricing.
Strangers Offering Free Drinks: Be wary of strangers offering free drinks, as they may be trying to scam you.
Closed Venue Signs: Check for signs indicating the venue is closed or under new management.

Protect your belongings and personal information by being cautious in public restrooms.

Unattended Restrooms: Use attended restrooms when possible.
Missing Items: Keep your belongings with you at all times.
Strange Items in Restroom: Avoid using restrooms with unusual or suspicious items.

Find the best exchange rate by comparing rates and choosing reputable vendors.

Hidden Fees: Ask about any hidden fees or charges before exchanging money.
Unfamiliar Exchangers: Choose licensed and reputable exchange services.
Unusual Exchange Rates: Compare rates with other exchangers to ensure fair pricing.

Verify accommodations to avoid scams and ensure a safe stay.

Communicate clearly to avoid misunderstandings and potential scams.

Translation Errors: Use translation apps for clear communication.
Aggressive Sellers: Stay calm and don't rush into transactions.
Lack of Information: Research products, services, or attractions beforehand to avoid confusion.