Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Yiyang, Hunan, China

All Topics about Yiyang All Cities in China

1. Taxi Overcharging

Watch out for unregulated taxis that may overcharge you. Always use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.

Avoid buying goods at street markets offering 'too good to be true' deals. Check for authenticity before purchasing.

Authenticity Certificates: Look for authenticity certificates or labels when buying branded goods.
Know Your Dealer: Deal with reputable sellers in established shops.
Price and Quality Mismatch: If the price or quality seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Stay away from unauthorized tour guides offering discounted tours. Only use licensed or recommended guides.

Licensed Tour Guides: Ensure your guide is officially licensed by the local authorities.
Reputable Agencies: Book tours through reputable travel agencies or hotels.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Do not accept offers from unauthorized guides approaching you on the street.

Protect your card and PIN when using ATMs. Be cautious of suspicious individuals loitering nearby.

Secure ATMs: Use secure, well-lit ATMs located in busy, public areas.
Cover Your PIN: Always cover your PIN when entering it to prevent shoulder surfing.
Stay Alert: Avoid using ATMs if someone is lurking nearby. If in doubt, go to a different ATM.

Avoid restaurants with poor hygiene conditions or suspicious food handling practices.

Cleanliness: Look for clean tables, utensils, and a well-maintained kitchen.
Health Inspections: Choose restaurants that have passed recent health inspections.
Food Quality: Check for fresh, high-quality ingredients in the dishes.

Avoid internet cafes that do not have a clear pricing system or require personal information.

Clear Pricing: Ensure the internet cafe has a visible and reasonable pricing policy.
Secure Internet Connections: Choose cafes with secure Wi-Fi networks to protect your personal data.
No Data Requirements: Do not provide sensitive personal information when using public computers or networks.

Be wary of pushy sellers offering bargains. Negotiate prices fairly and walk away if necessary.

Negotiation Skills: Practice your negotiation skills to get a fair price.
Reputable Dealers: Deal with reputable sellers in established shops or at the information booth.
Walk Away if Necessary: If a deal seems too good to be true, trust your instincts and walk away.

Avoid street performers who demand payment in advance or pressure you for tips.

Voluntary Donations: Only give donations when the performance is complete and you are satisfied.
Avoid Advance Payments: Do not pay in advance for performances that may not happen.
Trust Your Instincts: Be cautious of performers who pressure you for payment or seem overly aggressive.

Avoid souvenir shops offering overpriced items. Look for unique, locally made products.

Unique and Authentic Products: Choose locally made or authentic souvenirs.
Negotiation Skills: Practice your negotiation skills to get a fair price for your purchases.
Avoid Overpriced Items: Be wary of souvenir shops offering overpriced, mass-produced items.

Book your accommodations through reputable channels or agencies to avoid fraudulent listings.

Reputable Booking Channels: Use booking websites with good reviews and secure transactions.
Avoid Off-the-grid Accommodations: Stay away from off-the-grid accommodations without proper safety measures.
Check Reviews and Ratings: Read reviews and check ratings before booking your accommodation.

Avoid unlicensed drivers offering rides or tourist services. Use licensed taxis, buses, or ride-hailing apps.

Licensed Drivers: Ensure the driver is officially licensed and has proper documentation.
Reputable Transportation Services: Use reputable transportation services with good reviews.
Avoid Street Solicitation: Do not accept offers from unauthorized drivers approaching you on the street.

Be wary of unsolicited phone calls asking for personal information or demanding payment. Hang up and report the call.

Do Not Provide Personal Information: Never share sensitive personal information over the phone, especially with unsolicited callers.
Report Scams: Report any suspicious calls to local authorities or your embassy.
Hang Up and Verify: Hang up and verify the caller's identity before providing any information.

Avoid using public Wi-Fi hotspots for sensitive transactions or activities. Use a VPN for added security.

Use Secure Connections: Only use secure, encrypted connections for sensitive activities.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Sensitive Data: Do not conduct sensitive transactions or access personal accounts on public Wi-Fi networks.
Use a VPN: Consider using a VPN to encrypt your internet connection when using public Wi-Fi.

Use reputable money exchange shops for exchanging currencies. Compare rates before making transactions.

Reputable Money Exchange Shops: Choose well-established, licensed money exchange shops.
Compare Rates: Compare rates offered by various shops before making a transaction.
Secure Transactions: Ensure secure transactions with proper security measures in place.

Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious of pushy vendors or individuals during local festivals.

Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your instincts when interacting with vendors or festival-goers.
Avoid Advance Payments: Do not pay in advance for goods or services during the festival.
Negotiation Skills: Practice your negotiation skills to get a fair price for your purchases.