Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Yola, Adamawa, Nigeria

1. Monguno Market Scam Awareness

Understand the common scams in Monguno market, such as overpricing and false items. Avoid secluded areas.

Avoid Seclusion: Transactions should be conducted in busy and well-lit areas.
Know the Prices: Be aware of standard market prices to avoid overpricing scams.
Stay Alert: Remain vigilant for any suspicious activities and trust your instincts.

Avoid ticket scams and taxi overcharging at Yola motor parks. Verify the authenticity of tickets.

Verify Tickets: Check the authenticity of tickets before purchase.
Negotiate Fares: Negotiate taxi fares before starting the journey to avoid overcharging.
Stay Informed: Gather information about the standard fare rates and trusted operators.

Protect yourself from skimming and card cloning at ATMs in Yola. Watch for any unusual devices on machines.

Observe ATM Area: Avoid using ATMs that are not well-lit or in secluded areas.
Cover Inputs: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
Check Machine: Inspect ATMs for any suspicious devices or irregularities before use.

Avoid getting shortchanged at currency exchange booths. Verify the exchange rate and count your money carefully.

Check Rates: Compare exchange rates with multiple vendors to find the best deal.
Count Carefully: Count your exchanged money carefully and ensure you have received the correct amount.
Avoid Isolated Booths: Exchange currency in busy areas or at authorized exchange centers to minimize risk.

Avoid hidden charges and substandard accommodations by researching hotels thoroughly.

Research Reputation: Read reviews and check ratings of hotels before booking.
Check Inclusions: Ensure that the price quoted includes taxes, service charges, and other fees.
Inspect Facilities: Visit the hotel before booking to inspect its facilities and amenities.

Avoid misleading information or overcharging by hiring licensed tour guides. Research guide reputation.

Check Licenses: Ensure your tour guide is licensed and authorized.
Research Reputation: Read reviews and check ratings of tour guides before hiring.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices for services upfront to avoid unexpected charges.

Avoid overcharging and taxi scams by negotiating fares before starting the journey.

Negotiate Fares: Negotiate taxi fares before starting the journey to avoid overcharging.
Use Trusted Operators: Choose trusted and reputable transportation services for safe travel.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid using transportation in secluded or poorly-lit areas.

Avoid food contamination and overpricing at local eateries by choosing hygienic restaurants.

Check Hygiene: Ensure the restaurant maintains good hygiene standards.
Research Prices: Know the standard prices of local dishes to avoid overpricing scams.
Avoid Alleyway Eateries: Choose restaurants located in busy areas for safety and cleanliness.

Avoid overpricing scams by researching local shop prices before shopping.

Research Prices: Know the standard prices of items to avoid overpricing scams.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices before making a purchase.
Check Authenticity: Ensure the products are authentic and of good quality.

Avoid ticket scams and event cancellations by purchasing tickets from authorized vendors.

Check Authorization: Purchase tickets only from authorized vendors.
Research Events: Gather information about the event, including its location and schedule.
Ask Locals: Ask locals for recommendations on trusted ticket vendors.

Avoid SIM card activation scams by purchasing from authorized vendors.

Check Authorization: Purchase SIM cards only from authorized vendors.
Activate Correctly: Follow the instructions provided for activating your SIM card correctly.
Secure Your Phone: Use strong and unique passwords to secure your phone and personal data.

Avoid overpricing, pickpocketing, and other scams by being cautious during local festivals.

Stay Alert: Remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
Secure Your Belongings: Keep your belongings secure and close at hand during the festival.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices for goods or services during the festival.

Avoid cultural exchange program scams by researching programs thoroughly and verifying their authenticity.

Research Authenticity: Check the legitimacy of the cultural exchange program.
Gather Information: Learn about the requirements, duration, and objectives of the program.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from past participants to gain insights into their experiences.

Avoid fake charities and scams by researching local organizations and verifying their legitimacy.

Check Legitimacy: Verify the authenticity of charitable organizations.
Research Organizations: Gather information about local charities and their objectives.
Ask for Receipts: Request receipts for donations made to ensure they are properly recorded.

Avoid overcharging and other taxi scams by negotiating fares before starting the journey.

Negotiate Fares: Negotiate taxi fares before starting the journey to avoid overcharging.
Use Trusted Operators: Choose trusted and reputable transportation services for safe travel.
Avoid Isolated Areas: Avoid using transportation in secluded or poorly-lit areas.