Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Wuwei, China

1. Counterfeit Taxi Services

Unlicensed taxis may overcharge or take long routes. Use licensed taxis from designated stands.

Recognizable Logo: Legitimate taxi services in Wuwei have a recognizable logo on the car.
Official Stand: Hail a taxi from an official stand or book one through a reputable app.
Avoid Offers: Do not accept offers for cheaper rides outside designated areas.

Unlicensed tour guides may lead you to overpriced shops or attractions. Insist on licensed guides.

Licensed Guide Badge: Legitimate tour guides will have a visible badge and an ID card.
Registered Company: Book your tours through registered travel agencies.
Avoid Street Approaches: Do not accept offers from unlicensed guides who approach you on the street.

Hotels may overcharge, especially during peak seasons. Compare prices and book in advance.

Sellers of counterfeit goods may be found in local markets. Be wary and verify authenticity.

Cheap Prices: If prices are unusually low, the goods might be counterfeit.
Quality Check: Inspect items carefully and look for missing logos or poor workmanship.
Official Shops: Purchase goods from official shops or stores with good reputations.

Unscrupulous money changers may give less than agreed upon. Check rates and count your money carefully.

Check Rates: Compare exchange rates with reputable sources before changing money.
Secure Location: Change your money in secure locations such as banks or official exchanges.
Count Your Money: Count your money carefully to make sure you received the correct amount.

Restaurants may overcharge foreigners. Ask for prices before ordering.

Menu Prices: If the menu does not display prices, ask before ordering.
Local Eateries: Avoid high-end tourist restaurants and opt for local eateries instead.
Food Safety: Be aware of food safety standards and avoid street food that is not properly cooked or stored.

Some ATMs may skim your card information. Use ATMs in banks or secure locations.

Bank ATM: Use ATMs located inside banks for added security.
Secure Location: Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas.
Card Monitoring: Regularly monitor your account for unauthorized transactions.

Unsecured Wi-Fi hotspots may allow others to access your device. Use a VPN when connecting.

VPN Protection: Use a VPN to protect your data and privacy.
Secure Connections Only: Avoid using Wi-Fi in sensitive situations such as banking transactions.
Passport Protection: Do not store sensitive information on your device.

Artists may pressure you to buy their work. Politely decline if not interested.

Avoid High-Pressure Tactics: Do not feel obligated to purchase if the artist is being pushy.
Negotiate Prices: Feel free to negotiate prices and walk away if you're not satisfied.
Check Quality: Inspect the artwork carefully before buying to ensure quality.

Sellers may charge higher prices for foreigners. Be aware of local prices and negotiate.

Know the Local Price: Research common prices before visiting local markets.
Negotiate Skillfully: Use your negotiating skills to secure a fair price.
Walk Away Option: Be prepared to walk away if the seller is not willing to meet your price.

Internet cafes may install keyloggers or spyware. Use a VPN and avoid sensitive transactions.

Some sellers may offer expensive SIM cards. Compare prices and buy from reputable sources.

Price Comparison: Compare prices with reputable sources before purchasing a SIM card.
Official Stores: Purchase your SIM card from official stores or authorized dealers.
Check Included Services: Ensure the SIM card includes the services you require.

Some ticket sellers may provide fake tickets or overcharge. Buy tickets at official outlets.

Official Outlet: Buy your tickets at the official attraction or tourism office.
Check for Hologram: Legitimate tickets will have a visible hologram.
Compare Prices: Compare prices with reputable sources before purchasing your ticket.

Some rickshaw drivers may overcharge or take long routes. Agree on a price before riding.

Pre-agreed Price: Agree on a price with the driver before starting your ride.
Secure Location: Avoid riding in isolated or poorly lit areas.
Meter Usage: If the rickshaw has a meter, ensure it is used.

Some sellers may offer counterfeit local products. Verify authenticity and inspect items carefully.

Quality Check: Inspect items carefully and look for missing logos or poor workmanship.
Avoid Unfamiliar Sellers: Purchase goods from sellers with good reputations or official shops.
Price Comparison: Compare prices with reputable sources before buying.