Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Yancheng, Jiangsu, China
1. Taxi Scams
Avoid overpriced taxi rides or being taken to unwanted destinations. Always use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- Licensed Taxis: Official taxis have distinctive markings and are equipped with meters.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Car-hailing apps like Didi Chuxing provide a safer, more transparent option.
- Avoid Street Taxis: Street taxis may overcharge or take longer routes to destinations.
2. Counterfeit Goods Market
Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods and support local businesses. Be cautious of markets offering low-priced luxury items.
- Luxury Items Prices: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Market Reputation: Ask locals for recommendations on trustworthy markets.
- Legal Implications: Purchasing counterfeit goods may lead to legal issues and can support illegal activities.
3. Scams at Attractions
Be vigilant of pickpocketing or ticket scams when visiting tourist attractions. Keep valuables secure and only purchase tickets from official sources.
- Ticket Scams: Unauthorized sellers may offer fake or overpriced attraction tickets.
- Crowded Areas: Be extra careful in crowded areas where it's easier for pickpocketing to occur.
- Official Sources: Purchase tickets directly from the attraction or authorized agents.
4. Food Safety
Avoid foodborne illnesses by sticking to reputable restaurants and properly cooked foods.
- Restaurant Reputation: Choose establishments with good reviews and a clean appearance.
- Cooking Methods: Avoid foods that are not properly cooked or have been left out for extended periods.
- Drinking Water: Stick to bottled water to prevent stomach issues.
5. Unlicensed Tour Guides
Avoid unlicensed tour guides who may overcharge or lead you to scammy locations. Only hire guides from reputable agencies.
- Licensed Guides: Guides should have an official ID and be affiliated with a recognized tour agency.
- Agency Reputation: Research tour agencies before booking to ensure their credibility.
- Overcharging: Unlicensed guides may charge exorbitant fees for their services.
6. ATM Scams
Protect your bank account by using ATMs located in banks or secured areas. Be cautious of skimming devices and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
- Bank ATMs: ATMs inside banks are safer and less likely to have tampering devices.
- Secured Areas: Use well-lit, busy areas with cameras for additional security.
- Skimming Devices: Cover the keypad to prevent anyone from seeing your PIN.
7. Dishonest Money Exchange
Avoid being short-changed by exchanging money at reputable locations. Use established exchange centers and compare rates before transacting.
- Established Exchange Centers: Choose exchange centers with good reviews and a professional appearance.
- Compare Rates: Shop around for the best exchange rate before committing to a transaction.
- Exchange Scams: Be wary of individuals offering exchange services on the street.
8. Internet Café Scams
Protect your personal information when using internet cafés. Be cautious of computers with pre-installed keyloggers or malware.
- Secure Computers: Choose computers that are in a secure, locked area.
- Use HTTPS Websites: Only access websites using the 'https' protocol to ensure data encryption.
- Password Protection: Avoid saving passwords or other sensitive information on computers at internet cafes.
9. Sim Card Scams
Avoid getting ripped off by buying prepaid SIM cards. Only purchase from official retailers and confirm the validity of the card.
- Official Retailers: Buy SIM cards directly from telecom company stores or reputable dealers.
- SIM Card Validity: Ensure the card has a valid ID and is activated before use.
- Overpriced SIM Cards: Avoid vendors offering SIM cards at unusually high prices.
10. Hotel Scams
Avoid fake hotels by booking with reputable sources. Verify the hotel's location and check for positive reviews before arrival.
- Reputable Booking Sources: Book hotels through trusted online travel agencies or directly from the hotel's official website.
- Hotel Location Verification: Check the hotel's exact location and compare it with the location on a map.
- Positive Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to ensure a positive experience.
11. Ticket Reselling Scams
Avoid ticket resellers who may sell counterfeit or overpriced tickets. Only purchase tickets directly from the event organizers.
- Event Organizers: Purchase tickets only from official sources like the venue or their authorized ticket vendors.
- Counterfeit Tickets: Resellers may offer fake or overpriced tickets for events.
- Overpriced Tickets: Tickets resold at a high markup can cost significantly more than the original price.
12. Street Performers Scams
Avoid scams by street performers who may try to distract you while someone pickpockets your belongings. Keep a close eye on your valuables.
- Distraction Techniques: Performers may use distractions like offering items or asking for help to steal from unsuspecting victims.
- Valuables Security: Keep your belongings secure and close at hand when watching street performances.
- Legitimate Performers: Support local artists by donating to legitimate performers who do not engage in scams or distractions.
13. Cyber Cafe Scams
Protect your personal information when using cyber cafes. Be cautious of computers with pre-installed keyloggers or malware.
- Secure Computers: Choose computers that are in a secure, locked area.
- Use HTTPS Websites: Only access websites using the 'https' protocol to ensure data encryption.
- Password Protection: Avoid saving passwords or other sensitive information on computers at cyber cafes.
14. Accommodation Scams
Avoid booking fake accommodations by verifying the property before arrival. Only use reliable booking platforms or contact the host directly.
- Reliable Booking Platforms: Book through trusted online travel agencies or directly with the accommodation provider.
- Property Verification: Check the property's exact location, photos, and reviews before booking.
- Direct Contact: Contact the host or accommodation provider directly to confirm details and address any concerns.
15. Phone Call Scams
Avoid scammers who may call you posing as a bank or government official seeking personal information. Never share sensitive details over the phone.
- Legitimate Callers: Banks and government agencies will never ask for sensitive information over the phone.
- Caller ID Verification: Verify the caller's identity before providing any personal or financial details.
- Contact Official Channels: If in doubt, contact the institution directly through their official website or visit a physical location.