Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Tumkūr, Karnātaka, India

1. Auto-rickshaw Overcharging

Avoid excessive fares by negotiating the price before starting your journey or using a meter.

Knowledge of Fare: Understanding the standard fare for different routes
Bargaining Skills: Negotiating prices before starting your journey is crucial.
Meter Usage: Ensure the auto-rickshaw uses a meter for fair pricing

Stick to registered guides and avoid those who approach you unexpectedly.

Registration Check: Asking for a registration number or badge ensures they are legitimate.
Research: Book tours through reputable travel agencies or online platforms.
Price Comparison: Comparing prices with other guides helps identify unreasonably high costs.

Inspect banknotes carefully for irregularities and exchange money only at authorized places.

Authentication Apps: Download mobile apps to authenticate Indian currency notes.
Authorized Exchange Points: Exchange currency at banks, post offices or authorized money exchangers.
Inspection Techniques: Learn techniques to identify counterfeit notes, such as checking for watermarks and security threads.

Haggle prices but beware of overly aggressive vendors and stick to reputable shops.

Bargaining Etiquette: Respect local bargaining customs and avoid causing offense.
Vendor Reputation: Ask locals for recommendations on reputable vendors.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other vendors to ensure fairness.

Book accommodations through reputable online platforms or verified local listings.

Online Reviews: Check reviews and ratings from previous guests.
Verified Listings: Ensure the accommodation is verified by a trusted platform or website.
Payment Method: Use secure payment methods through reputable platforms.

Avoid unofficial taxis or shared vehicles and always use registered transport services.

Registration Check: Ensure the vehicle is registered and has a valid license.
Driver Identification: Ask for identification to confirm the driver's identity.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other transport services to avoid overcharging.

Keep personal belongings secure and be aware of crowded areas where pickpocketing may occur.

Personal Belonging Security: Using a security belt or pouch helps keep important items safe.
Valuables Management: Carry essentials only and leave unnecessary valuables at your accommodation.
Crowded Area Awareness: Stay vigilant in crowded areas, especially during festivals or events.

Ask for the price before entering a tuk-tuk and negotiate if necessary.

Knowledge of Standard Fare: Understanding the standard fare for different routes helps avoid overcharging.
Bargaining Skills: Negotiating prices before starting your journey is crucial.
Meter Usage: Ensure the tuk-tuk uses a meter for fair pricing

Use only ATMs located at banks or reputable places and avoid isolated machines.

ATM Location: Choose ATMs in secure locations such as banks, malls, or well-lit areas.
Security Cameras: Ensure the ATM has security cameras for added protection.
Card Skimming: Cover your hand while entering your PIN to prevent card skimming.

Avoid eateries near popular tourist attractions and explore local markets for affordable options.

Local Market Exploration: Exploring local markets offers a variety of affordable food choices.
Avoid Tourist Attractions: Avoid eating near popular tourist attractions to avoid overpriced food.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other eateries to ensure fairness.

Buy bus tickets only from authorized ticket counters and avoid unofficial sellers.

Authorized Sellers: Purchase tickets only from authorized ticket counters.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other travelers or online platforms to ensure fairness.
Ticket Validation: Validate your ticket before boarding the bus.

Purchase gold jewelry from reputable shops and always check purity before buying.

Book train tickets in advance through the IRCTC website or authorized ticket counters.

Advance Booking: Booking tickets in advance helps secure lower prices.
Authorized Sellers: Purchase tickets only from authorized ticket counters or the IRCTC website.
Ticket Validation: Validate your ticket before boarding the train.

Purchase SIM cards at airports or authorized mobile operator stores to avoid overcharging.

Airport or Authorized Store: Purchase SIM cards only from airports or authorized mobile operator stores.
Data Packages: Choose data packages that meet your needs and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with other travelers or online platforms to ensure fairness.

Rent cars only from reputable companies and always inspect the vehicle before driving.

Reputation: Ask locals for recommendations on reputable car rental companies.
Inspection Before Driving: Inspect the vehicle before driving to check for damages or missing parts.
Insurance Coverage: Ensure the rental car comes with adequate insurance coverage.