Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Ulan-Ude, Buryatiya, Russia

All Topics about Ulan-Ude All Cities in Russia

1. Counterfeit Currency Scam

Be wary of receiving fake bills during transactions. Check the authenticity of Russian Rubles.

Visual Inspection: Check for watermarks, holograms, and security threads on the banknotes.
Feel Test: Rub real and counterfeit bills together. Real bills will have a rough texture while fake ones feel smoother.
Use ATMs: Use ATMs from reputable banks to withdraw money safely.

Prices at local markets may fluctuate. Always agree on a price before purchasing.

Some taxi drivers may use deceiving meters or fake routes. Use only licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Check for Licenses: Look for a license plate, and check if the driver has a valid permit.
Use Apps: Use apps like Yandex Taxi or Gett for a hassle-free ride.
Negotiate Fares: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Some tour guides may offer cheap services but lead you to overpriced shops. Book tours through reputable agencies.

Research Tour Agencies: Look for reviews and recommendations from other travelers.
Check Credentials: Ask for their credentials, such as a tour guide license or affiliation with an agency.
Plan Ahead: Research attractions beforehand and plan your itinerary to avoid unnecessary stops at overpriced shops.

Some hotels or hostels may charge higher prices than their actual value. Research and compare prices before booking.

Compare Prices: Check multiple booking websites for the best deals.
Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality and price.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices, especially if you are staying for a longer period.

Some restaurants may charge tourist prices. Eat at local eateries or street food vendors.

Look for Local Eateries: Seek out eateries frequented by locals to find authentic and affordable meals.
Avoid Tourist Areas: Stay away from restaurants near popular tourist spots as they often charge higher prices.
Try Street Food: Experience local delicacies at street food stalls for a taste of Ulan-Ude's culinary culture without breaking the bank.

Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings close and avoid exposing valuable items.
Use Anti-Theft Bags: Use bags with lockable zippers or anti-theft backpacks to secure your belongings.
Stay Alert: Remain vigilant, especially in crowded places and on public transportation.

Some internet cafes may install keyloggers to steal your information. Use only reputable establishments and be cautious of what you share online.

Check Reviews: Look for reviews from other travelers to find trusted internet cafes.
Use a VPN: Use a virtual private network (VPN) to protect your online activity.
Avoid Logging in Sensitive Accounts: Don't log into sensitive accounts like banks or email when using an unfamiliar computer.

Some ticket sellers may offer fake tickets for cultural events. Purchase tickets only from authorized outlets.

Check Event Websites: Visit the official websites of cultural venues to confirm ticket availability.
Buy Tickets in Person: Purchase tickets at authorized outlets or boxes offices to avoid scams.
Verify Ticket Authenticity: Check for holograms, watermarks, and other security features on tickets.

Be cautious of strangers who offer to be your guide or friend. They may lead you to overpriced shops or scam you.

Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, trust your instincts and avoid the situation.
Stick to Tour Groups: Stay with tour groups or travel in larger groups for safety.
Ask Around: Ask locals about the person offering help. If they have positive reviews, consider accepting their assistance.

Some money exchange booths may offer lower rates or exchange fake currency. Only use licensed exchange offices.

Check for Licenses: Ensure the exchange office has a valid license and is part of an official exchange network.
Compare Rates: Compare exchange rates among different booths to find the best deal.
Count Your Money: Count your exchanged money immediately and carefully to avoid receiving less than you should.

Some individuals may pose as police officers or officials to extort money. Always ask for proper identification and call the local police if unsure.

Ask for Identification: Always ask for official identification from anyone claiming to be a police officer or official.
Call Local Police: If you are unsure, call the local police to verify their identity.
Stay Calm and Don't Provide Personal Information: Remain calm and do not provide any personal information or money without verifying their legitimacy.

Some individuals may claim to be collecting for charity but are actually scamming. Donate only to registered charities.

Check the Charity's Registration: Verify that the charity is officially registered and licensed.
Avoid Donating Cash: Avoid donating cash. Instead, give to charities through a bank transfer or official donation boxes.
Research Charities Online: Look up the charity online and read reviews from other donors before giving.

Some taxi drivers may overcharge or take a longer route to increase the fare. Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Check for Licenses: Ensure the taxi has a license plate and that the driver has a valid permit.
Use Apps: Use apps like Yandex Taxi or Gett for a hassle-free ride.
Negotiate Fares: Always agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Some guidebooks or maps may provide incorrect information to lead you to overpriced shops. Use online maps and reputable travel guides.

Use Online Maps: Use Google Maps or other reputable mapping services for accurate directions.
Check Reviews of Guidebooks: Look for reviews from other travelers before purchasing a guidebook.
Ask Locals for Directions: Ask locals for directions if you are unsure, as they may provide more accurate information than guidebooks or maps.