Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico

All Topics about Zapopan All Cities in Mexico

1. Taxis at the Airport Scam

Unlicensed taxis may overcharge or take longer routes. Use only authorized airport taxis.

Official Signage: Look for official signage designating authorized taxi services.
Prepaid Tickets: Consider prepaid tickets to avoid overcharging.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt as proof of payment and service.

Unsanitary street food vendors may offer tainted or low-quality food. Only eat at reputable and hygienic establishments.

Health Department Stickers: Look for health department stickers to ensure the vendor meets sanitary standards.
Busy Restaurants: Choose busy restaurants with a steady stream of customers.
Avoid Sidewalk Vendors: Avoid vendors selling food on the sidewalk unless they have proper permits and adhere to hygiene practices.

Counterfeit goods may be sold as authentic. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.

Brand Reputation: Research the brand's reputation before making a purchase.
Price Check: Check prices online or compare them with other stores to ensure fairness.
Official Stores: Buy from official stores or authorized retailers whenever possible.

Thieves may target tourists in crowded areas. Use a money belt and stay aware of your belongings.

Secure Your Belongings: Always secure your belongings, especially in crowded places.
Buy a Money Belt: Invest in a money belt to safely store your valuables.
Leave Valuables at Home: Minimize the amount of valuable items you carry around with you.

Fraudulent police officers may stop tourists and ask for bribes. Carry a copy of your passport and travel documents only.

Know the Emergency Number: Memorize the local emergency number and communicate clearly in case of issues.
Don't Carry All Documents: Carry only necessary documents and leave originals at your accommodation.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay alert to your surroundings, especially when dealing with authority figures.

Unfavorable exchange rates may be offered by unlicensed currency exchangers. Use reputable and authorized services.

Ask for Multiple Quotes: Ask for quotes from multiple vendors to compare prices.
Check Exchange Rates Online: Compare the offered exchange rate with online rates before transacting.
Use Authorized Services: Use banks, hotels, or authorized exchange centers for currency transactions.

Skimming devices may be installed on ATMs to steal your card information. Use well-lit and secure ATMs.

Use Well-Lit ATMs: Choose well-lit, busy ATMs with CCTV cameras nearby.
Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent potential keyloggers.
Monitor Your Account Regularly: Regularly monitor your account for any suspicious activity.

Businesses may overcharge tourists for goods and services. Negotiate prices beforehand or compare with local rates.

Research Local Rates: Research the cost of goods and services in Zapopan to avoid overcharging.
Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices before agreeing to any transactions.
Ask for Receipts: Request receipts for all transactions as proof of payment and service.

Unlicensed tour guides may offer poor quality services or overcharge tourists. Use authorized guides only.

Check Credentials: Ask for the guide's credentials and verify their authorization.
Research Tour Companies: Research tour companies before booking to ensure they are reputable.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask for recommendations from locals or travel forums.

Rental cars may have hidden damages or charges. Thoroughly inspect vehicles before driving away.

Inspect the Vehicle: Thoroughly inspect the rental car for any damages before accepting it.
Check Contract Terms: Read and understand the contract terms carefully before signing.
Take Photos: Take photos of the vehicle and any damages before driving away.

Timeshare presentations may be high-pressure sales tactics leading to unnecessary expenses. Politely decline invitations.

Decline Invitations Politely: Politely decline invitations to timeshare presentations if they are unwanted.
Research the Company: Research the company offering the timeshare before considering it.
Check Contract Details: Thoroughly review the contract details before making any commitments.

Fake charities may solicit donations for causes that do not exist or use the funds improperly. Research legitimate organizations.

Research Charities: Research charitable organizations before making donations to ensure they are reputable.
Ask for Receipts: Request receipts for your donation as proof of support.
Donate Directly: Donate directly to the charity's official website or office when possible.

Unsecured internet cafes may have keyloggers or viruses that steal your personal information. Use trusted establishments only.

Use Secure Internet Connections: Only use secure and trusted internet connections to protect sensitive information.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Avoid conducting sensitive transactions such as online banking on unsecured networks.
Use a VPN: Consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for added security.

Unlicensed tourist attractions may charge inflated prices or provide poor experiences. Research and choose reputable attractions.

Research Tourist Attractions: Research tourist attractions before visiting to ensure they are legitimate.
Check for Licenses and Permits: Look for official licenses and permits for the attraction to ensure its authenticity.
Ask for Recommendations: Ask locals or other travelers for recommendations on tourist attractions.

Hotels may charge tourists higher prices without disclosing lower rates. Book directly or use travel websites for the best deals.

Book Directly: Book your accommodation directly with the hotel when possible.
Use Travel Websites: Compare prices on travel websites for the best deals.
Check Room Rates: Always check room rates before confirming your reservation.