Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Xingcheng, Liaoning, China

1. Sim Card Scam

Unscrupulous vendors offer cheap sim cards with promises of unlimited data. The SIM may be hacked or have no data.

Official Outlets: Buy from official outlets like telecom stores.
Data Verification: Ensure data works before leaving the store.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may offer cheaper prices but often involve scams.

Taxis may charge more for tourist spots or use a faulty meter. Some taxis are unlicensed.

Local markets may sell counterfeit goods, especially popular brands. These goods are often low quality and illegal.

Unscrupulous currency exchange vendors may offer a lower exchange rate or charge hidden fees.

Authorized Outlets: Exchange money at authorized banks or official outlets.
Check Rates: Compare exchange rates before making transactions.
Avoid Street Vendors: Street vendors may offer cheaper prices but often involve scams.

Locals approach tourists offering friendship or help, leading to extortion or theft.

Travel in Groups: Avoid traveling alone and stay in groups.
Be Wary of Strangers: Be cautious of overly friendly locals, especially in tourist areas.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities or hotel staff if you feel threatened.

Some accommodation bookings may be fraudulent, with the property not existing or being substandard.

Book through Reputable Sites: Use reputable booking sites and read reviews.
Arrive During Daylight: Arrive during daylight to verify the accommodation.
Contact Host for Verification: Contact the host beforehand and ask for verification details.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer cheap services but take tourists to overpriced stores or scam them.

Registered Tour Guides: Only use registered and licensed tour guides.
Check Credentials: Ask for the guide's registration number and verify it.
Research Tour Prices: Research tour prices before booking to avoid overpricing.

Sellers may offer fake tickets for popular attractions at lower prices.

Official Outlets: Buy tickets from official outlets or the attraction's website.
Check for Holograms: Legitimate tickets often have holograms or other security features.
Research Ticket Prices: Know the ticket price range for attractions to avoid overpricing.

Some restaurants may add harmful substances to food to make tourists sick and demand more money.

Avoid Street Food Vendors: Choose established restaurants with good reviews.
Check Hygiene Standards: Look for cleanliness and proper food handling practices in restaurants.
Stick to Cooked Foods: Avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods that could be contaminated.

Criminals install skimmers on ATMs to steal card information.

Use Well-lit and Busy Areas: Use ATMs in well-lit, busy areas.
Cover PIN: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent prying eyes.
Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor account activity for any unusual transactions.

Scammers may claim a family member is in need of financial help and ask for money.

Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing personal information easily.
Verify the Story: Verify the story and check for any red flags.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities if you feel unsure or threatened.

Some public transportation may be overcrowded and pickpockets may take advantage.

Secure Wallet or Bag: Keep wallets or bags secure to prevent theft.
Stay Aware of Surroundings: Stay aware of your surroundings and potential threats.
Avoid Overcrowded Transportation: Avoid overcrowded transportation when possible.

Scammers may stage fake emergencies to solicit money.

Stay Aware of Surroundings: Remain cautious and aware of your surroundings.
Verify the Story: Verify the story and check for any inconsistencies.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities if you feel unsure or threatened.

Some massage parlors may offer sexual services illegally.

Check for Licenses: Only visit massage parlors with visible licenses.
Avoid Late Night Visits: Avoid visiting massage parlors late at night to minimize risk.
Research Parlor Reputation: Research the reputation of the massage parlor before visiting.

Some taxi drivers may offer free rides but demand payment later.