Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Tongshan, China

1. Tour Guide Scams

Unlicensed guides may overcharge or lead you to fraudulent shops. Stick with authorized guides.

Authorized Guides: Officially licensed guides are registered and hold a badge.
Tourist Complaints Bureau: Lodge complaints with the Tourist Complaints Bureau in case of any issues with your guide.
Reputable Tour Agencies: Book tours through reputable agencies to ensure a licensed guide.

Beware of counterfeit goods being sold as authentic souvenirs. Look for quality and official certifications.

Official Certification Marks: Authentic goods will have official certification marks.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other shops to ensure reasonable costs.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on where to buy authentic souvenirs.

Criminals may install skimmers on ATMs to steal your card information. Use ATMs in banks or secure locations.

Bank ATMs: ATMs inside banks are safer due to increased security measures.
Card Monitoring: Regularly monitor your account for unusual activity.
Credit over Debit: Use credit cards instead of debit cards to limit immediate financial loss.

Public Wi-Fi may be set up to steal your data. Use a VPN and avoid sensitive transactions on public networks.

VPN Usage: A VPN encrypts your internet connection, protecting your data.
Secure Websites: Make sure websites are secure before entering sensitive information.
SMS Verification: Use SMS verification whenever possible to protect your account.

Taxi drivers may attempt to overcharge or take a longer route. Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Licensed Taxis: Taxis displaying the city's taxi sign are officially licensed.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Use apps like Didi Chuxing for safe and affordable rides.
Prepaid Cards: Use prepaid cards to limit your spending in taxis.

Impostors posing as police officers may ask for your belongings or money. Carry a photocopy of your passport and travel documents.

Original Passport: Always keep your original passport secure.
Photocopies of Important Documents: Carry photocopies in case you're asked to show identification.
Embassy Contacts: Know the location and contact details of your embassy in case of emergencies.

Some hotels or accommodations may charge excessive prices. Compare prices and read reviews before booking.

Price Comparison: Compare prices with other accommodations in the area.
Travel Review Sites: Read reviews on travel review sites before booking a place to stay.
Local Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on affordable accommodations.

Unsanitary street food vendors may cause illness. Stick to well-known and busy vendors.

Busy Vendors: Vendors with a steady stream of customers are typically safe.
Cooking Methods: Look for vendors using boiling or grilling methods to cook food.
Food Handling: Observe the vendor's handling of food and utensils.

Crowded areas can be prime locations for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Some money changers may give less than agreed or offer counterfeit currency. Only use reputable and licensed money changers.

Licensed Money Changers: Money changers registered with the local government are typically safe.
Rates Comparison: Compare exchange rates with other money changers in the area.
Secure Transactions: Exchange currency in secure locations and avoid isolated areas.

Locals offering unsolicited help may lead you to scams. Be wary of unsolicited offers and only accept assistance when needed.

Solicitation: Be cautious of people approaching you with offers, especially in tourist areas.
Police or Government Representatives: Real police and government officials will not approach you offering assistance.
Traveler's Awareness: Remain alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas.

Counterfeit tickets for attractions or events may be sold. Purchase tickets from official outlets.

Official Outlets: Tickets should be purchased at the venue, official websites, or authorized resellers.
Price Comparison: Compare ticket prices with other outlets to ensure authenticity.
Official Logos: Authentic tickets will display official logos and holograms.

Finders of lost property may try to return it in exchange for compensation. Keep your belongings secure.

Secure Valuables: Keep valuable items secure and do not display them openly.
Official Police Stations: Report lost property to the police station if it cannot be found.
Awareness: Remain aware of your surroundings and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Some vendors may attempt to overcharge foreigners. Research prices before bargaining and be firm with your offers.

Local Prices: Research local prices for goods before bargaining.
Reasonable Offers: Make reasonable offers based on your research and be firm in your negotiations.
Walk Away Option: Be prepared to walk away if the vendor refuses a fair price.

Cybercafes may install keyloggers or other malware to steal your information. Use trustworthy cybercafes or secure your devices.

Secure Devices: Install antivirus software and keep your device updated.
Cybercafe Reputation: Choose cybercafes with good reputations and positive reviews.
VPN Usage: Use a VPN to encrypt your internet connection and protect your data.