Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Zhongba, China

1. Taxi Overcharging Scam

Avoid overpriced taxi rides by using reputable companies or negotiating fares in advance.

Price Comparison: Compare prices with local rates to identify overcharges.
Reputable Companies: Choose well-known taxi services for reliable pricing.
Negotiation: Negotiate fares before starting the journey to avoid surprises.

Stay away from street vendors selling knock-off goods; opt for licensed stores instead.

Know the Source: Avoid unlicensed sellers to ensure authenticity.
Licensed Stores: Purchase goods from authorized retailers for quality and warranty.
Check Warranty: Demand a receipt or warranty card for your purchase to verify its authenticity.

Exchange money at banks or official exchange centers to avoid receiving counterfeit bills.

Official Establishments: Use authorized establishments for exchanging currency.
Check Bills: Inspect bills for security features to ensure their authenticity.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt after exchange to track transactions.

Book accommodation in advance through reputable online platforms or hotels directly.

Advance Booking: Reserve accommodations ahead to secure a room.
Reputable Platforms: Use trusted online booking services for peace of mind.
Direct Hotel Booking: Book accommodations through the hotel's official website or phone number.

Choose established street food vendors and follow basic food safety rules.

Established Vendors: Select vendors with proper hygiene standards and busy locations.
Basic Food Safety: Ensure food is cooked thoroughly, served hot, and avoid raw or undercooked items.
Crowd Sourced Recommendations: Ask locals for recommendations on safe and delicious street food spots.

Book guided tours through recognized travel agencies to ensure quality service.

Recognized Agencies: Choose established tour operators with a good reputation.
Licensed Guides: Verify that the guide has a valid tourism license.
Check Reviews: Read customer reviews to choose guides with positive feedback.

Use ATMs located at banks or inside shopping centers for safer transactions.

Inside Establishments: Choose ATMs inside banks, shops or malls for added security.
Check Machine for Tampering: Examine the machine for unusual attachments before use.
Cover Pin Entry: Always cover your PIN when entering to avoid unwanted eyes.

Purchase SIM cards at official stores or airports instead of street vendors.

Official Stores: Choose authorized retailers for purchasing SIM cards.
Ask for Receipt: Always ask for a receipt after purchase to verify the transaction.
Check Coverage: Ensure the coverage of the SIM card matches your travel needs.

Purchase tickets from official outlets or authorized ticket vendors to avoid fake tickets.

Official Outlets: Buy tickets at authorized venues or ticket booths.
Check for Hologram: Verify the presence of a hologram on the ticket as proof of authenticity.
Ask for Receipt: Always request a receipt or ticket confirmation after purchase.

Refuse offers of free gifts from strangers in exchange for personal information.

Stranger Offers: Decline unsolicited offers to avoid compromising your personal data.
Identify Fraudsters: Be cautious of individuals offering free gifts without a clear agenda.
Report Suspicious Activity: Inform local authorities or your embassy about any unusual encounters.

Avoid buying high-value items without a warranty or return policy.

Warranty: Purchase goods with a warranty for peace of mind.
Return Policy: Ensure the seller has a return or exchange policy in place.
Trusted Vendors: Shop at reputable stores or online platforms with good customer feedback.

Use prepaid transport cards to avoid overpayment for rides.

Prepaid Cards: Obtain a prepaid card to pay for public transportation without worrying about overcharges.
Understand Fare Structure: Familiarize yourself with the fare structure and transfer options for public transport.
Avoid Peak Hours: Plan your travel during off-peak hours to avoid overcrowded and expensive rides.

Stay calm, never share personal information, and contact your embassy if you suspect a scam.

Identify Real Officers: Verify the identity of police officers by asking for official ID.
Do Not Share Personal Info: Refuse to share personal information with strangers pretending to be police officers.
Contact Embassy: Inform your embassy if you encounter suspicious situations involving supposed police officers.

Choose licensed massage parlors to avoid hidden charges or inappropriate activities.

Licensed Parlors: Select massage parlors with a valid license and good reviews.
Ask for Price Upfront: Request the cost beforehand to avoid unexpected charges.
Check for Hygiene: Ensure the establishment is clean and hygienic.

Avoid gambling on the street to steer clear of fraudulent games and illegal activities.

Illegal Activities: Gambling on the street can lead to trouble with local law enforcement.
Fraudulent Games: Street gambling games may not be fair or use weighted dice.
Waste of Money: Money spent on street gambling can quickly add up without any return.