
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Zaria, Kaduna, Nigeria
1. Emir's Palace Scam
Scammers may pose as guides or sell fake tickets to the Emir's Palace. Always buy official tickets from authorized outlets.
- Official Outlet: Only purchase tickets from approved outlets near the palace.
- Ask for ID: Guides should have proper identification. Ask to see it.
- Check Online Reviews: Research the palace and read reviews before visiting.
2. Bazaar Barter Scam
Overpricing or offering fake items at markets. Always bargain but be reasonable, and check items before buying.
- Ask for Price: Ask for the price before you start bargaining.
- Inspect Items: Thoroughly inspect items before purchasing.
- Buy from Reputable Sellers: Buy from well-known and trusted vendors in the market.
3. Transportation Overcharging
Taxi drivers may overcharge tourists or refuse to use meters. Agree on a price before starting the journey.
- Agree on Price: Always negotiate the price before getting into a vehicle.
- Use Metered Taxis: Choose metered taxis when available and ensure the meter is functioning correctly.
- Ask for Recommendations: Get recommendations from locals or your hotel about reliable taxi services.
4. Currency Exchange Scam
Unfavorable exchange rates at unofficial exchange spots. Use official banks or bureaus for currency exchange.
- Check Rates: Compare exchange rates before exchanging money.
- Use Official Locations: Exchange currency at banks, bureaus or authorized exchange locations.
- Keep Small Amounts of Cash: Carry small amounts of cash and use cards for larger purchases.
5. Fake Tour Guide Scam
Unlicensed guides offering services. Ask for a government-issued guide's ID.
- Check for ID: Ask for an official tour guide ID before hiring their services.
- Research Tour Companies: Choose reputable and well-known tour companies in Zaria.
- Read Reviews: Check online reviews before booking a tour guide or company.
6. Hotel Room Scam
Rooms booked may not match the description. Check the room before accepting it.
- Inspect the Room: Thoroughly inspect the hotel room upon arrival.
- Check Booking Details: Ensure the hotel room matches your booking details.
- Ask for Help: Contact hotel management if there are issues with your room.
7. ATM Skimming Scam
Fraudsters install skimmers on ATMs to steal card information. Use ATMs in well-lit and crowded areas.
- Choose Well-Lit ATMs: Use ATMs that are located in well-lit and busy areas.
- Cover the Keypad: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent keylogging.
- Monitor Account Activity: Regularly monitor your account activity for any unauthorized transactions.
8. Fake Police Scam
Police impersonators may approach you to extort money or rob you. Always ask to see their ID.
- Ask for ID: Real police officers will always carry and show their identification.
- Stay Calm and Collect Information: Stay calm, collect information about the officer, and report the incident to local authorities.
- Do Not Provide Personal Information: Never provide your personal information or any valuables to strangers claiming to be police officers.
9. Food Contamination Scam
Restaurants may add extra ingredients or use less expensive items. Eat at well-known and clean restaurants.
- Check Restaurant Cleanliness: Choose restaurants with good hygiene practices.
- Read Reviews: Read reviews and ask locals for recommendations about good restaurants.
- Inspect Your Food: Check your food before consuming it, especially if it looks unusual.
10. Sim Card Scam
Sellers may provide sim cards with pre-installed software or malware. Buy sim cards from official outlets.
- Buy From Official Outlets: Purchase SIM cards at official stores and networks.
- Check the SIM Card: Inspect the SIM card for any physical damage or unauthorized stickers.
- Update Your Phone: Keep your phone's operating system updated to protect against malware.
11. Feeding the Poor Scam
Scammers may pretend to be beggars or poor children. Donate to official charities instead.
- Donate to Official Charities: Support reputable and officially registered charities.
- Avoid Giving Cash Directly: Give food or essential items instead of cash directly to beggars.
- Research Local Organizations: Research local organizations that support the poor and vulnerable in Zaria.
12. Pickpocketing Scam
Thieves may target crowded areas or tourist spots. Keep your belongings close and use a money belt.
- Keep Belongings Close: Keep your valuables close at all times, especially in crowded places.
- Use a Money Belt or Hidden Pocket: Store important items like money and credit cards in a hidden pocket or money belt.
- Avoid Displaying Valuables: Minimize the display of valuable items to reduce the risk of theft.
13. Friendship Scam
Strangers may attempt to befriend you for personal gain. Be cautious and do not share sensitive information.
- Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive or financial information with strangers.
- Verify the Identity of New Friends: Use online tools to verify the identity and background of new acquaintances.
- Trust Your Gut: If something feels off, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
14. Overpriced Internet Scam
Internet cafes may overcharge tourists. Compare prices before using their services.
- Compare Prices: Compare prices of internet services at different cafes in the area.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews and ask locals for recommendations about reliable internet cafes.
- Negotiate the Price: Always negotiate the price before using the internet services at a cafe.
15. Photography Scam
Locals may ask for payment to take photos of tourist sites. Be aware of the photography laws and policies.
- Check Photography Laws: Research the local laws regarding taking photos in public places.
- Ask Permission: Always ask for permission before taking someone's photo, especially children.
- Do Not Pay for Unsolicited Photos: Refuse to pay for photos you did not request and report any issues to local authorities.