Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Stuttgart, Germany

1. Stuttgart Airport Scam

Be wary of strangers offering assistance at the airport who may demand payment for non-existent services.

Unsolicited Help: Travelers should not accept help from unknown individuals unless it's asked for.
Payment Demands: Be suspicious of anyone demanding payment for services that were not agreed upon or requested.
Official Airport Staff: Only official airport staff wear clearly identifiable uniforms and work in designated areas.

Some taxis may charge excessively high fares or use a broken meter to overcharge unsuspecting travelers.

Fare Hikes: Ask for the fare estimate before entering the taxi.
Broken Meters: Check that the taxi meter is working correctly and the driver starts it as soon as you get in.
Legitimate Taxis: Only use licensed taxis with identifiable logos or stickers.

Some street food vendors may overcharge tourists for substandard food or even serve contaminated food.

Price Check: Compare prices with other vendors in the area before purchasing.
Crowded Areas: Avoid street food from vendors in deserted or poorly lit areas.
Hygiene Standards: Look for clean and hygienic conditions at the vendor's stand.

Beware of sellers offering luxury goods at suspiciously low prices.

Suspicious Prices: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Check Authenticity: Look for signs of authenticity such as holograms or serial numbers on items.
Official Stores: Purchase luxury goods from official stores or authorized dealers.

Some ATMs may skim your card and steal your PIN.

Secure ATMs: Choose well-lit, busy areas for using ATMs.
Cover Your Keys: Cover the keyboard while entering your PIN to prevent shoulder surfing.
Monitor Accounts: Regularly monitor your account transactions for any unusual activity.

Some beggars may distract you while an accomplice picks your pocket.

Distraction Techniques: Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions.
Valuables Security: Keep valuables hidden and secure at all times.
Report Incidents: In case of an incident, report it to local authorities immediately.

Some ticket sellers may offer fake or overpriced tickets for events.

Authorized Sellers: Buy tickets from authorized vendors or the event venue's official box office.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other ticket sellers to avoid overpaying.
Official Event Website: Check the official event website for ticket availability and sales details.

Some rental car agencies may charge hidden fees or provide damaged vehicles.

Transparent Contracts: Read the contract carefully and ask questions before signing.
Inspection Report: Take photos of any existing damage to the vehicle before driving away.
Reputable Agencies: Choose a reputable rental car agency with good customer reviews.

Some accommodations may be overpriced or of poor quality.

Online Reviews: Check online reviews before booking an accommodation.
Payment Methods: Pay using a secure payment method such as credit card or a trusted online service.
Official Accommodation Websites: Book accommodations through official websites or reputable travel agencies.

Free Wi-Fi hotspots may be set up to steal personal information.

Secure Connections: Only connect to secure Wi-Fi networks using a VPN.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid online banking or shopping on public Wi-Fi.
Check Network Names: Be cautious of free Wi-Fi networks with suspicious names.

Some sim card vendors may sell cards with no service or additional charges.

Legitimate Vendors: Buy SIM cards from reputable mobile network operator stores.
Check Inclusions: Ask about inclusions and charges before purchasing a SIM card.
Data Usage: Monitor data usage to avoid unexpected charges.

Some buskers may use distraction techniques to pickpocket unsuspecting tourists.

Valuables Security: Keep valuables hidden and secure at all times.
Distraction Techniques: Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions.
Report Incidents: In case of an incident, report it to local authorities immediately.

Some guides or tour operators may charge excessive fees for poor quality services.

Research Reviews: Research the guide or tour operator online and read reviews.
Official Registration: Ensure they are registered with local tourism authorities.
Fair Pricing: Compare prices with other guides or tour operators to ensure fairness.

Some currency exchange booths may offer unfavorable exchange rates.

Comparison Shopping: Compare exchange rates with other booths before deciding.
Authorized Dealers: Choose authorized dealers such as banks or post offices.
Secure Transactions: Exchange currency in secure, well-lit areas and avoid deserted locations.

Some street performers may demand an excessive fee for a photograph or interaction.

Fair Payment: Negotiate a fair price before taking photographs or engaging in interactions.
Distraction Techniques: Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions.
Report Incidents: In case of an incident, report it to local authorities immediately.