san francisco tourist scams

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15 San Francisco Tourist Traps And Scams (And How To Avoid Them)

San Francisco is a great place to visit, but if you're not careful, you could be overwhelmed by San Francisco tourist traps. These San Francisco scams are all over the place if you know where to look, and thankfully, the locals are giving directions. Hopefully with their guidance, you'll learn how to avoid tourist traps in San Francisco.

Asking For Gas Money

From Redditor u/ Ashebolt :

When someone approaches you with the "I need money for ... " [grift], just a quick "sorry bro" usually gets them to leave you alone. I find that if they don't think they can get money from you, they leave pretty quickly.

Or offer to pay for his gas with your CC and see the disappointment on his face.

Rental Cars Without State Plates

From Redditor u/ celestial_flame :

DO NOT get a rental car without state plates. this will make it obvious that you’re a tourist/from out of town and will make you a target for a car break-in.

"Japanese" Tea

From Redditor u/ Runningthruda6wmyhoe :

Japanese Tea Garden serves you Lipton.

Leaving Valuables Around

From Redditor u/ strikefreedompilot :

I think most tourist [misdeeds] are usually property [offenses] like a broken car windows or tourists leaving items unsupervised. Both can be somewhat prevented: Drive a clean car/park further away from the tourist site, don't leave valuables around.

Tenderloin And SOMA

From Redditor u/ lilstar88 :

Avoid the Tenderloin and parts of SOMA as they are tourist traps. Never ever ever leave anything in your car.

Ordering Orange Juice

From Redditor u/ desole16 :

Crostini & Java uses orange juice from Trader Joe’s up the street and sells it for like 5$ a cup.

"Welch's" Juice

From Redditor u/ TheInnsmouthLook :

Just a heads up about Nopalito, I highly doubt it's Welch's. Odds are they are using the bottle to collect their own pressed juice then dolling it out from a branded bottle. They reuse everything there. I've had many friends work there, some were managers. But a grain of salt, that is old Intel.

The original Welch's was probably an ingredient somewhere else. Cocktail syrup, salsa, sauce, popsicle base, etc.

BART Grifters

From Redditor u/ leilavanora :

I recently saw a kid get scammed out of $20 on BART. This man started yelling nonstop on the train saying his daughter is stuck at the airport and her suitcase went over the weight limit. He said he was an employee at Kaiser and he used to be in the military. He really did seem sincere the entire time and said he would pay the money back. This kid gave him $20 and was all ..uhh do you want my address or something and the man was like oh yeah sure. I texted my friend while this was happening and he said his daughter must fly a lot because he has seen him on BART a couple times before.

The Cheap Food Trap

From Redditor u/ omgar :

"House Made Rice Pudding" from Loving Cup is literally just Kozy Shack Rice Pudding. I watched an employee pull out a bulk Kozy Shack container and pour it out onto one of their own trays. Please, save yourself some money and go to your nearest grocery store. You can even buy some Oreo's and crumble them up yourself.

The Man With The Sob Story

From Redditor u/ this-name-is-taken-0 :

A cleanly dressed man walks along with you for a few yards, while pretending to be talking on the phone. He finishes his imaginary conversation with an emotional "a*hole!“. Then he kind of notices you, says sorry and that he was not referring to you. This is how he strikes a conversation, then proceeds to tell you a story, that he, his wife and 2 grandkids [had their belongings taken] at a gunpoint in East Palo Alto, everything was [taken], including the car. Has even paper with supposedly PD number he was just talking to. It turns out the car was found and returned to them, but unfortunately with little gas left and they ran out of it as they were driving to the city. So he needs some money to get some fuel, of course, your money will be returned if you leave him your business card. Of course, he is not from the area, but from somewhere in SoCal, in my case was Pasadena. Smooth talker, dressed clean. Operates around Powell and Market. The pity point is that he has 2 grandkids and a wife waiting for him. His request for some money usually comes in somewhere near an atm.

Handing Out Business Cards

From Redditor u/ nangadef :

I have a friend who was a Government official working in the Civic Center. He was approached by a guy asking for $20 with a convincing down on his luck story who offered his business card as evidence of his bona fides. He then asked my friend for his business card so he could contact him later and return the $20. A few days later my friend got a call from a guy asking for his money back. The scammer had passed off my friend's business card to trick the next guy.

Try The Skeptical Face

From Redditor u/ PersiansArentWhite :

Street scammers is the reason why I walk around with a very uninviting look on my face. Scammers, bums, clipboard kids; they all avoid me.

From Redditor u/ Clancita4 :

Tourists tend to flock to Chinatown and fisherman’s wharf. Avoid! The Sunset and Richmond are only a few miles away and very family-friendly. It’s a shame we don’t have better public transportation so this gets overlooked a lot by people new to town. Ocean Beach and all of Golden Gate Park are so underrated!

The Midnight Magic Scammer

From Redditor u/ GoatLegRedux :

If you hear about this man don't even pay him attention and leave. He called himself Midnight Magic (I think? Could’ve be something similar). He would go around downtown and claim he was loaded and would spend his nights buying food and delivering it to homeless shelters in SF. He’d claim to have left his wallet in San Rafael and needed cash to get his food for the night. I knew at least one person who gave him $20. The look on his face when I told him he’d been scammed by one of, if not the most notorious [grift] artists in California was priceless.

Italian Restaurants In SF

From Redditor u/ cheweychewchew :

Many Italian restaurants claim to make their own sauces and pasta. Some are legit, but usually, they are all pre-made from SYSCO and other food distros.

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How to avoid tourist scams in San Francisco , USA in 2022

How to avoid these 6 tourist scams in san francisco , usa.

Tourist scams are the only negative side of travelling (along with the expenses). It´s unfortunate that these amazing destinations we visit have a small minority who thrive to take advantage of innocent tourists that come to provide income for their local economy. San Francisco , USA is no different and has it´s typical scams as well. Here is how to avoid tourist scams in San Francisco , USA in 2022. While this article will highlight the main tourist scams that tend to occur in San Francisco , I highly suggest you watch a documentary on Netflix about tourist scams called “Scam City” .

Picture Scam

One popular scam in San Francisco , USA is when a local asks you to take their picture. They hand you their camera and ask that you take their picture. Upon returning the camera, they purposely drop it and blame you for breaking their camera, demanding you pay them. Kindly refuse to take anyone´s picture (or unless you are 100% sure they are not locals).

Taxis Overcharging

When Uber and its alternatives are not available in a destination, we must use taxis. San Francisco , USA is no different. Whenever you hop into a taxi in San Francisco , make sure to ask them to turn on the meter. It´s also recommended to map out your journey prior to entering the taxi, so you have an idea as to how long the trip should take. This way, you can ask your taxi drive prior to entering approximately how long the trip will take and cross reference it with what Google Maps or Waze shows you on your phone.

Friendly ATM Helper

Someone approaches you at an ATM cash machine in San Francisco to help you avoid local bank fees. Their true intention is to scan your debit or credit card with the card skimmer in their pocket and watch you enter your pin number so they can drain your account later. Another version of this popular scam is when your card has trouble at an ATM machine and they approach and want to help you sort it out. Make sure to always cover the number pad with your other hand while entering your pin code. While it´s best to refuse any help when at an ATM machine, it´s even better if you can travel with credit cards that have no foreign currency fees and cash that can be exchanged in a local bank in San Francisco , USA.

“Friendly” Bar Friends

If hooking up is part of your plans while visiting San Francisco , USA, beware of the following scam. Two friendly girls (or guys) will make small talk and lead you to believe that there is mutual interest. They will then suggest to go for a drink and will invite you to join them to a bar nearby (which they are partners with). After a couple shots you will end up paying 5-10 times more. They will offer to chip in a small amount but if you don´t pay up, you will be escorted by the bar bodyguards to an ATM to withdraw enough cash to pay the bill. In order to avoid falling to this tourist scam in San Francisco , there are a few things you can do. First, you can suggest the bar. Second, make sure to ask for the bar menu once you arrive so you can see the prices.

Bird Poop Scam

While walking in the streets of San Francisco , someone throws a bit of white paste on your shoulder, so your natural intention is to look up thinking it was bird poop. Suddenly, a “friendly” local offers to help clean up, all this while cussing at the birds for creating such a mess. While they help clean you, they also pick pocket you. Unless an emergency, kindly refuse any “help” from locals who rush over to assist you. Keep all your possessions hidden away, ideally money/cards in an internal pocket

Guessing Game Scam

While walking the streets of San Francisco , USA, you see a man with three boxes and he has a group of people around him trying to guess in which box the ball is placed. One of the people in the group guesses the correct answer, and the man hands him a money as a prize. They do this again with another member of the group, with the same reaction. The commotion attracts more and more people to come and see this generous street performer. Then, an innocent bystander from the crowd is asked to guess. While concentrated in focusing on where the ball is, the members in the group quickly pick pocket them for any valuables.

It´s best to stay away from public commotion and keep all valuables hidden from the public.

We know you will enjoy your trip to San Francisco , USA, but just make sure to be aware of these common tourist scams that can dent your amazing experience.

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‘It's Not Your Fault:' SF City Attorney Urges Scam Victims to Come Forward

By olivia wynkoop | bay city news • published april 5, 2023 • updated on april 5, 2023 at 10:22 am.

As scam schemes continue to prey upon vulnerable San Franciscans and drain their savings, the City Attorney's Office reminds residents that they do not have to deal with the aftermath alone.

Scammers are constantly evolving and their creativity is often underestimated, said San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu.

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San Francisco's low-income, immigrant communities are especially losing money to scams like fraudulent immigration consultants, financial investments, tax services and online travel companies, he said.

Often people cannot afford the scam that targeted them, and legal red tape can be especially challenging to navigate for people whose primary language is not English, Chiu said.

"One scam could be the difference between you being able to pay the rent, and you being on the street," Chiu said.

Alongside legal experts, community activists and victims, Chiu took part in the Federal Trade Commission's latest San Francisco roundtable discussion on scams and fraud last Thursday. Since 2014, the federal government agency has hosted meetings to hear from the city's Asian-American Pacific Islander community on their concerns with scams.

"When these experiences happen, there is even more of a likelihood that folks may not want to share it because it's embarrassing, because they think it's their fault," Chiu said. "We're here today to say no, it's not your fault, you are a victim of a scam."

Fraud Cost Consumers $8.8 Billion Last Year, Federal Trade Commission Says. That's Up 44% From 2021

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Small businesses are another common target. He mentioned a lawsuit that the city filed in early March against a direct marketing company, which allegedly impersonated the government to sell workplace compliance posters.

Residents and small businesses that believe they are victims of a scam are encouraged to contact Chiu's office, as it is capable of enforcing the law despite arbitration clauses that prevent the creation of private class action lawsuits.

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"We are able to enforce the law in ways that private lawyers cannot," Chiu said.

People are losing more money than ever from scamming. According to recent data collected by the FTC, 2.4 million victims across the country lost a record $8.8 billion in 2022 -- a 30 percent increase from the year prior.

"That is the most that we have ever seen before," said Rosario Mendez, an attorney and senior member of the FTC's Division of Consumer and Business Education in its Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Mendez said the FTC has the power to investigate and shut down businesses acting in bad practice, but it can't happen without people speaking out and staying informed on what common scams look like.

"You tell us what's happening, we do something about it, we tell the public so they can protect themselves in the future," Mendez said. She said issuing consumer alerts prompts a "ripple effect" in communities.

"It's not enough to stay in Washington D.C. We have to come to the communities and hear from people."

The Bay Area's most popular scams at the end of 2022 were impersonation scams, where someone pretends to be a trustworthy figure like a family member or government agent, said Denise Oki of FTC's Western Regional Office. The biggest red flag to discern these scams is the type of money they request, like cryptocurrency, wire transfers and gift cards.

"Reporting is really vital to us to do our jobs and in turn to protect you and to protect the community," Oki said, adding that the agency does not hear from the AAPI community as often as they should.

University of California at Berkeley law student Renee Coe said she once saw a case where a student from India lost thousands of dollars after she received a call from who she thought was the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement -- the caller ID and number matched the government agency's. She was told she had to send $18,000 immediately, or else she would be detained and deported.

"One thing that scammers do is they emphasize the urgency of the situation, so much that you don't have time to check with a friend or a family member who might be able to sort of ask you the important questions," said Coe. "Most of the time, they realize it was a scam during the first person they talk to after."

Desiree Nguyen Orth, director of the Consumer Justice Unit at the East Bay Community Law Center, said fraud victims are often too embarrassed to seek out help when they've been duped into investing money into financial scams. Part of the problem is that people are not able to meet their daily needs, so they are seeking out quick-fix solutions like fake debt settlement companies or wage access groups.

"We've seen people trying to invest in their future, trying to find some way to put their money into a nest egg, where they can have some sort of security," Orth said.

"Many of the calls that we get are about how to manage debt. There are a lot of companies that are out there to fill that niche," she added.

Residents who believe they are victims of a scam are encouraged to contact the City Attorney's Office via an online portal at sfcityattorney.org and the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov .

This article tagged under:

Mission Local

Local news for a global city

In record year for scams, SF asks for public’s help

A young woman with long hair, wearing a gray sweater, holds a bouquet of deep red flowers. she is smiling gently at the camera.

Useful links

An online complaint portal provided by the San Francisco City Attorney’s Office that is available in English, Chinese, Spanish and Filipino for individual victims to file complaints.
An FTC website for scam reporting. The site is currently available in English and Spanish .
Legal advice line of Bay Area Legal Aid : 800-551-5554
Contact Housing and Economic Rights Advocates : https://www.heraca.org/#contact

REPORTER. Yujie Zhou came on as an intern after graduating from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism. She is a full-time staff reporter as part of the Report for America program that helps put young journalists in newsrooms. Before falling in love with the Mission, Yujie covered New York City, studied politics through the “street clashes” in Hong Kong, and earned a wine-tasting certificate in two days. She’s proud to be a bilingual journalist. Follow her on Twitter @Yujie_ZZ.

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Is Fisherman’S Wharf Safe? Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting

With its seaside location, proximity to tourist attractions, and lively atmosphere, San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf attracts millions of visitors each year. However, some people wonder, is Fisherman’s Wharf safe for tourists?

If safety is a concern for your upcoming San Francisco trip, here’s what you need to know.

The quick answer is: yes, Fisherman’s Wharf is generally safe for tourists, especially during daytime hours . Like any busy tourist area, visitors should exercise common-sense precautions. But violent crime rates in the area are relatively low.

Understanding Fisherman’s Wharf Crime Statistics

When planning a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s natural to have concerns about safety. To make an informed decision, it’s important to understand the crime statistics of the area. By examining these statistics, you can gain a clearer picture of the safety conditions at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Day vs. Night Safety

One aspect to consider when assessing the safety of Fisherman’s Wharf is the time of day. During the daytime, Fisherman’s Wharf is generally considered safe for tourists and visitors. The area is bustling with activity, and there are numerous tourists, locals, and law enforcement officers present.

However, as with any popular tourist destination, it’s essential to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

At night, Fisherman’s Wharf can become quieter, with fewer people around. While crime can occur at any time, it’s important to note that the reported incidents of crime at Fisherman’s Wharf are relatively low compared to other neighborhoods in the city.

Taking basic safety precautions, such as traveling in groups and staying in well-lit areas, can help ensure a safe visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, even at night.

Types of Reported Crimes

The reported crimes at Fisherman’s Wharf are typically non-violent in nature. Incidents like pickpocketing, theft, and vandalism are more commonly reported. These crimes can happen in crowded areas, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.

By taking simple measures like using a money belt or keeping your belongings secure, you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of these crimes.

It’s important to note that serious crimes such as assault and robbery are relatively rare at Fisherman’s Wharf. However, it’s always a good idea to be cautious and aware of your surroundings to ensure your safety.

Safety Precautions to Take

While Fisherman’s Wharf is generally a safe destination, it’s wise to take some safety precautions to ensure a worry-free visit. Here are some tips:

Keep your belongings secure and in sight at all times.
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronic devices.
Stay in well-lit and populated areas.
Travel in groups, especially at night.
Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
If you see something suspicious, report it to the authorities or security personnel.

By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy your visit to Fisherman’s Wharf with peace of mind.

Notable Recent Incidents in the Area

While Fisherman’s Wharf is generally considered a safe tourist destination, there have been a few notable incidents in the area in recent years. It is important to be aware of these incidents and take necessary precautions when visiting.

1. Petty Theft and Pickpocketing

Like any popular tourist spot, Fisherman’s Wharf attracts its fair share of petty theft and pickpocketing. Visitors should be cautious of their belongings and keep an eye on their personal items at all times.

It is advisable to use a secure bag or backpack and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you.

2. Car Break-ins

There have been reports of car break-ins in the parking lots near Fisherman’s Wharf. To minimize the risk, it is recommended to park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving any valuable items visible in your car.

If possible, use a secure parking facility or consider using public transportation when visiting the area.

3. Occasional Street Crime

While rare, there have been isolated incidents of street crime in the vicinity of Fisherman’s Wharf. It is always a good idea to stay in well-populated areas, especially at night, and be aware of your surroundings.

If you encounter any suspicious individuals or situations, report them to the local authorities.

4. Tourist Scams

As with any popular tourist destination, there may be individuals trying to take advantage of visitors. Be cautious of people offering unsolicited services or selling counterfeit goods. Stick to reputable establishments and always confirm prices and terms before engaging in any transactions.

It is important to note that while these incidents have occurred, Fisherman’s Wharf remains a popular and safe destination for tourists. The local authorities are actively working to ensure the safety and security of visitors.

By staying alert and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy your visit to Fisherman’s Wharf without any major concerns.

Tips for Staying Safe During Your Visit

Remain alert and aware.

When visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings. While it is generally a safe area, like any popular tourist destination, there can be instances of petty theft or pickpocketing.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and be cautious of any suspicious activity around you. If you notice something unusual, don’t hesitate to notify the authorities or the nearest security personnel. Remember, staying vigilant can go a long way in ensuring your safety.

Travel in Groups When Possible

Traveling in groups can provide an added layer of security during your visit to Fisherman’s Wharf. Not only does it make you less of a target for potential criminals, but it also allows you to look out for one another.

Exploring the area with friends or family members can enhance your overall experience and provide peace of mind. Additionally, larger groups tend to deter criminals who may be looking for easy targets.

Use Ride Share Services Cautiously

If you plan on using ride share services like Uber or Lyft to get to and from Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s important to use caution. Verify the driver’s identity and the vehicle details before getting in. Always ensure that the license plate number matches the one provided in the app.

If something feels off or you have any concerns about your safety, trust your instincts and find an alternative mode of transportation. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Keep Valuables Hidden

One of the key measures to prevent theft is to keep your valuables hidden. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, gadgets, or large amounts of cash, as it can attract unwanted attention. Instead, keep your belongings secure in a bag or a pocket that is not easily accessible to others.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to leave any unnecessary valuables, such as expensive watches or designer handbags, at home. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of becoming a target for theft.

Common Tourist Scams to Watch Out For

Ticket scalping.

One common scam that tourists should be aware of when visiting Fisherman’s Wharf is ticket scalping. Ticket scalping refers to the illegal practice of reselling tickets at a higher price than their face value.

This often occurs near popular tourist attractions where individuals try to take advantage of tourists’ desire to visit these attractions. They may approach you on the street or outside the entrance of an attraction, offering tickets at a seemingly discounted price.

However, these tickets may be fake or invalid, leaving you out of pocket and unable to enter the attraction.

To avoid falling victim to ticket scalping, it is best to purchase tickets from official sources. Most attractions have authorized ticket vendors or websites where you can purchase tickets in advance. This ensures that you have legitimate tickets and can enjoy your visit without any issues.

Counterfeit Goods

Another common scam at Fisherman’s Wharf, like many other tourist destinations, is the sale of counterfeit goods. Vendors may try to entice you with cheap prices on popular brands such as designer handbags, watches, or electronics. However, these goods are usually fake and of poor quality.

Buying counterfeit goods not only supports illegal activities but also leaves you with a product that may not function as expected or last for a reasonable amount of time.

To avoid purchasing counterfeit goods, it is recommended to shop at reputable stores or authorized retailers. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the authentic details of the brands you are interested in, such as logos, packaging, and product features.

This will help you spot any discrepancies and make informed purchases.

Rigged Games

When visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, you may come across various carnival-style games, such as ring toss or ball throwing. While these games may seem fun and innocent, some operators may rig them to make it nearly impossible for you to win.

They may use smaller or heavier balls, manipulate the equipment, or have hidden mechanisms that prevent you from successfully completing the game. This can lead to frustration and wasted money.

If you decide to play these games, it is essential to approach them with a sense of fun rather than expecting to win. Remember that the primary purpose of these games is often for entertainment rather than offering fair chances to win prizes.

If you suspect that a game is rigged or unfair, it is best to avoid it and find other enjoyable activities at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Remember, being aware of these common scams can help you have a safe and enjoyable visit to Fisherman’s Wharf. Always be cautious, trust your instincts, and rely on official sources for tickets and purchases.

Safety Precautions for Specific Attractions

Ripley’s believe it or not.

When visiting Ripley’s Believe it or Not! at Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s important to keep a few safety precautions in mind. The attraction is known for its odd and unique exhibits, but it’s always a good idea to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Here are some tips to ensure a safe visit:

Stay with your group and avoid wandering off alone.
Follow all posted rules and regulations within the attraction.
Be mindful of any interactive exhibits that may have specific safety instructions.
Keep an eye on your personal belongings to prevent theft or loss.

By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy an entertaining and safe experience at Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

Wax Museum at Fisherman’s Wharf

The Wax Museum at Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular tourist attraction known for its lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and fictional characters. While visiting the museum, it’s important to take certain safety precautions into consideration:

Observe any roped-off areas or barriers to ensure you don’t accidentally touch or damage the wax figures.
Keep a close eye on children to prevent them from running or touching the exhibits.
Exercise caution when taking photos to avoid any accidents or collisions with other visitors.
Follow any instructions provided by museum staff for a safe and enjoyable visit.

By following these safety precautions, you can fully appreciate the incredible artistry of the wax figures while maintaining a safe environment for yourself and others.

USS Pampanito

The USS Pampanito is a historic World War II submarine that is now open for public tours at Fisherman’s Wharf. While exploring the submarine, it’s essential to prioritize your safety. Here are some precautions to keep in mind:

Wear appropriate footwear to navigate the narrow corridors and steep stairs of the submarine.
Listen carefully to the tour guide’s instructions and follow any safety guidelines provided.
Be mindful of low ceilings and watch your head to avoid any injuries.
Exercise caution when moving through tight spaces to prevent accidental bumps or falls.

By adhering to these safety precautions, you can have a fascinating and secure experience as you explore the USS Pampanito.

In summary, San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf is generally a safe area for tourists to explore. By staying alert, using common sense, traveling in groups when possible, and keeping valuables secure, visitors can focus on creating wonderful memories.

While no destination is completely crime-free, Fisherman’s Wharf is highly frequented by tourists and locals, especially during daylight and evening hours. So take normal safety precautions, then relax and enjoy the sights, shops, restaurants and entertainment that this popular waterfront area provides.

Jennifer Morris is an avid solo travel adventurer who founded Solo Traveller after many years of journeying on her own around the world. She has backpacked through over 50 countries across 6 continents over the past decade, striking up conversations with locals along railway platforms, learning to cook regional dishes in home kitchens, and absorbing a global perspective while volunteering with various community initiatives.

With a Masters in Tourism and Hospitality, Jennifer is passionate about responsible and meaningful travel that fosters cultural exchange. Whether trekking through the Atlas Mountains, sailing to Komodo National Park, or taking an overnight train across Eastern Europe - she is always seeking her next epic destination.

When not globetrotting, Jennifer calls Vancouver, Canada home. There she enjoys kayaking local waters, curling up with books on faraway places, and gearing up for her next solo backpacking trip. As the founder of SoloTraveller, she hopes to motivate and inform fellow solo explorers from all walks of life to take the leap into their own adventures.

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Chinese immigrant loses lifetime savings in ‘blessing scam’

A person in a black jacket stands on a street with parked cars, viewed through blurry foliage.

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On a chilly afternoon in San Francisco, Vickie Wong was on her way home, unaware that she was about to lose her life savings.

The 68-year-old Chinese immigrant and longtime Sunset District resident was walking down the street when she was suddenly approached by three middle-aged Cantonese-speaking women. The strangers successfully persuaded her to bring out her valuables from home for a “blessing ceremony” by insisting she was “cursed.” During the ceremony, the scammers surreptitiously switched out the bag containing Wong’s $50,000 worth of gold and over $1,000 in cash with another.

“I think I was almost hypnotized so I completely trusted them at the time,” Wong told The Standard. “I ‘woke up’ hours later and found out it’s a scam.”

This latest “blessing scam” incident, which happened March 27, shocked law enforcement after a handful of similar cases since late last year. This type of scam has been repeatedly perpetrated in the Chinese community, and the demographic of all the victims has been similar—superstitious, monolingual older women.

The District Attorney’s Office has started an education campaign to raise awareness in the Chinese community. But the situation isn’t new—such scams have popped up in San Francisco’s Chinese community for years.

Prior cases show that the scammers are sometimes Chinese citizens with visas who travel around U.S. Chinese communities to find victims, which makes it difficult for law enforcement to make arrests. The blessing scams stopped almost entirely during the pandemic, but now that tourism has resumed, some of the same scammers are believed to be back.

“Unscrupulous scammers are back trying to defraud vulnerable victims in our city,” said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. “My office will do everything we can to educate the public to prevent these incidents from happening, and also work to hold perpetrators accountable and ensure that they face consequences for their crimes.”

Wong is now receiving victim services from both the District Attorney’s Office and the San Francisco Police Department. Her story was reported first by the Chinese press , and she agreed to join law enforcement officials for a merchant walk to get the word out about the scams. Mayor London Breed, Police Chief Bill Scott and Jenkins have been visiting different Chinese senior housing sites to host forums and explain the scams.

A group of masked seniors gather outdoors; a central figure in purple seems to be speaking or gesturing.

Anni Chung, the CEO of the Self-Help for the Elderly, an Asian community-based senior service group, said that over 60 seniors are recorded to have fallen prey to these scams in the past and said blessing scams are the “biggest nightmare” for Chinese seniors.

It’s unclear how many incidents have been reported since last year. However, because some Chinese immigrants may feel ashamed of losing large amounts of money to scammers, opting to not report the loss to police, the true number of victims may be much higher than reports would indicate.

The scamming tactics

A week after she was scammed, Wong revisited the site of the “blessing” and showed The Standard what exactly happened.

At the corner of busy Noriega Street, Wong said that the first woman who approached her asked where to find a “famous doctor” because her daughter was “possessed.” Wong said she didn’t know, but then a second woman showed up and said that she knew where the doctor was, leading them on a walk to a relatively quiet residential area.

During the conversation, a third woman walked over and claimed to be the granddaughter-in-law of the famous doctor, saying the doctor would help “purify” the “possessed” daughter. Then she walked away.

The scam worked like this: Unbeknownst to Wong, as the first two women were talking to her, they were also secretly recording their conversation. During their chat, they asked Wong personal questions like her name and her age. Wong didn’t know it at the time, but the third woman was secretly listening in the whole time. So when the third woman came back and claimed the “possessed” daughter of the first woman was now saved, she also said the famous doctor knew about Wong’s personal life—making Wong believe that the doctor had power.

Then, the third woman—the alleged granddaughter-in-law of the doctor—told Wong the doctor said she was in trouble.

The third woman told Wong that she had once stepped on the blood of a fatal car crash victim, putting a curse on her whole family. The only way to get rid of the bad spirits, she said, was to bring out some raw rice along with all the cash and gold at her home for a blessing ceremony.

A person's pointing hand, colorful houses, a parked car, and a tree-lined sidewalk.

Wong followed suit and brought out the valuables. The third woman put the valuables in a black bag and started the ceremony. During the ceremony, she switched the bag with another black bag of similar weight without Wong’s knowledge. After the ceremony, she asked Wong to go home and not to open the bag for a couple of days.

A few hours after she returned home, Wong realized she had been scammed. She opened the bag and found some bottled water, baby wipes and other non-valuables. She reported the incident to the police that night.

The scam seems similar to other ones previously documented in the press. It always starts with someone looking for a “famous doctor,” and someone claiming the targeted victim was cursed or has health issues that the doctor can help cure.

On Wednesday, the police department announced that they arrested a male suspect in Los Angeles linked to two January scam incidents in San Francisco . Wong’s case is still under investigation.

As the investigation plays out, Wong’s goal is to tell her story to help prevent others from being scammed.

“I hope the city leaders will put out more signs or have more police cars in the Chinese community,” Wong said in Cantonese, “to deter the scammers and warn the community about this type of scam.”

Han Li can be reached at [email protected]

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Tourist's car burglarized near where SFPD announced new tact to crack down on car break-ins

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Police in San Francisco have a new plan Thursday to crack down on brazen smash and grab car break-ins, which seem to be happening almost daily. Now, city officials say enough is enough.

"People who do this need to be held accountable," said SFPD Chief William Scott.

Scott was talking about a crime spree that's reached epidemic proportions. Brazen car break-ins seem to be happening everyday across the city, especially in popular tourist areas.

"We are restarting our deployment to tourist areas," said Scott.

MORE: SF business owner hands out 'do not break into this car' signs to protect customers

Scott says his department is adding more officers in neighborhoods where break ins are happening, even using 'bait cars' to catch thieves.

"When people come to the city breaking into cars, they may be breaking into cars put there by the San Francisco Police Department. We intend to catch people in the act," said Scott.

"What an ironic thing, what are the chances," said Lindsay Dobbelare.

Ironic, considering moments before this news conference began at the Palace of Fine Arts, tourist Lindsay Dobbelare from Missouri got her family's rental car broken into near the same spot.

MORE: Video shows thieves break into 3 cars in less than 2 minutes near Fisherman's Wharf

"So we pulled over, parked, got out, did a little sightseeing had our back glass shattered, four backpacks stolen with electronics, passports all that good stuff," said Dobbelare.

After an officer took their report, we asked the chief about what just happened.

"My reaction? I'm sick and tired of this happening to people in the city, I've had my car broken into, it impacts us all," said Scott.

The SFPD says so far this year, there's been 13,331 reported car break-ins, compared to 13,493 for the same period in 2022.

San Francisco DA Brooke Jenkins is promising penalties for those caught.

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"That's what we're trying to re-instill in San Francisco, is not only will you be caught but when you're prosecuted there will be a consequence for that behavior," said Jenkins.

Marina District neighbors like Dahphe are hopeful the break-ins can be stopped.

"It's been going on too long, we need to do more, the only thing we've seen work is actual police presence," said Daphne.

Meantime, Lindsay from Missouri says she'll come back to San Francisco but with a few changes.

"If you're going to sightsee, leave your stuff in the hotel, just Uber somewhere," said Dobbleare.

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Travel | 10 common travel scams – and how to avoid them

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Earlier this spring, I watched a young, solemn man dressed like a Buddhist monk approach a tourist on the National Mall. He showed him a petition to build a temple and slid a bracelet made of prayer beads onto his wrist. The visitor was pulling money out of his wallet when I intervened and told him the truth: He had fallen for a scam.

When we are on our own turf, the scam artists are as obvious as that so-called Nigerian prince offering you a cut of his inheritance. But on foreign territory, we are more susceptible to deceptions. Maybe we are unfamiliar with the local customs and don’t want to offend, or perhaps our jet lag has dulled our Spidey senses.

“This is a universal, global problem, especially in cities where you have crowds and people let their guard down,” said Michelle Bernier-Toth, the State Department’s managing director for Overseas Citizen Services. “People don’t report it to the police or to us because they feel foolish and embarrassed.”

Bernier-Toth, who has lived in Africa and the Middle East, can empathize with scam victims. She has been one herself – twice. In Johannesburg, she was withdrawing funds from an ATM when a man asked if she needed help. In a flash, he palmed her card, slipping past her friend who was posted as her lookout. The second time, she was in cab in Istanbul when the driver handed her out-of-circulation currency as change.

“I was schnookered,” she said. “These scams are age-old.”

To be sure, swindles occur all over the world, to every type of traveler. To reduce your chances of falling prey to unscrupulous types, Bernier-Toth offers this advice: “Be polite, but wary; trust, but verify, and just say ‘No, thank you.’ ” Also, check the State Department’s country information for alerts specific to your destination. For instance, for travel to India, the department warns, “Major airports, train stations, popular restaurants, and tourist sites are often used by scam artists looking to prey on visitors, often by creating a distraction.”

To help you spot the hoaxes, we assembled 10 of the most common ploys around the world and offer tips on how to protect yourself from them. We also contacted the State Department and Global Rescue, a company that assists imperiled travelers, for a sampling of destinations where these scams frequently occur. Note that these swindles are on the milder side of the criminal spectrum, with the perpetrators essentially trying to steal or squeeze money out of you. They do not typically involve violence, though they can leave a dark bruise on your vacation – and your ego.

Corrupt cabbies

The scam: The cabdriver (or tuk-tuk driver) claims the meter is broken and quotes an outrageously inflated price . . . The cabbie informs you that your destination – a hotel, temple, museum, teahouse – is overbooked or closed and takes you to his friend’s lodging or attraction. He charges you a higher fare, plus earns a kickback . . . The driver takes a convoluted route, jacking up the rate.

How to avoid it : Never hail a cab from the street. Ask a reputable establishment to call you a cab, or hire a licensed taxi through an official outpost. Know the general cost of the ride – ask the hotel concierge or consult an online fare calculator – and confirm that the meter works. Know the address and hours of operation of your destination. If the driver attempts to take you elsewhere, firmly repeat your desired location or terminate the ride. Use Google Maps to keep the driver honest and on course. To avoid cabbies entirely, use a ride-hailing service such as Uber or Lyft.

Bonus : No money changes hands, eliminating additional scams. Activate the Follow My Ride (Uber) or Share My Ride (Lyft) tool, so friends can track your whereabouts.

Sample destinations : Egypt, Turkey, Mexico, Thailand, India, Colombia, Ecuador, Argentina, Serbia

Fake accidents

The scam : A passerby squirts you with a liquid, condiment or fake bird dropping. While you inspect the splotch, an accomplice pickpockets you. The squirter might also try to clean the spot, another diversionary tactic. Other distract-the-tourist ploys include an elderly person falling, a woman tossing a baby or cat at you, or someone dropping a wallet and accusing you of pocketing the contents after you pick it up. In a similar vein, someone on a scooter or in a car intentionally crashes into your vehicle and tries to resolve the incident by demanding cash.

How to avoid it : Secure all of your valuables before heading out for the day. For instance, stash wallets in slash-resistant bags that lock or in hidden pouches – any strategy that will thwart sticky fingers. Ignore your good Samaritan impulses and do not retrieve any valuable objects, including people, from the ground. In the vehicular accident scenario, wait for the police to arrive, assuming you can trust law enforcement. If you are in a country with corrupt cops, contact the U.S. Embassy for help.

Sample destinations : Rome, Istanbul, India, Paris, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, Egypt, Chile, Ghana

‘Free’ gifts

The scam : A man in Buddhist monk attire ties a bracelet around your wrist. A stranger presents you with a sprig of rosemary. A woman offers you flowers or henna. A “disabled” person hands you a pack of tissues. Think a thank-you will suffice? Nope. The so-called gift-giver wants money, and if you don’t pony up after accepting the item, the individual will cause a scene. In another tried-and-true scam, a person finds a gold ring on the ground and asks whether it is yours. You say no, but the person gives it to you anyway and then badgers you for money.

How to avoid it : Never accept unsolicited gifts. In fact, don’t even look at the item, or you could suddenly find yourself with a friendship bracelet wrapped around your wrist. Return the item and walk away.

Sample destinations : Thailand, Myanmar, Nepal, Paris, Cairo, Rome, Kuala Lumpur, Barcelona

Damaged goods

The scam : You rent a motorbike, car or water scooter and are accused of damaging the vehicle. The rental firm demands money for the repairs. Be aware that the damage could be real, though you were not to blame. An employee might have trailed you and bashed up the rental when you were out of eyeshot.

How to avoid it : Rent through a reputable company. Take photos of the vehicle before you leave the premises and keep an eye on your rental at all times. If the disagreement escalates, contact the police or embassy.

Sample destinations : Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Greece, Bahamas, Italy, Mexico

Counterfeit currency

The scam : The currency exchange booth gives you counterfeit money or obsolete notes . . . A cabdriver, restaurant or retailer claims you paid with fake money, switching your real notes for fake ones. Or you receive (not-so-) funny money as change.

How to avoid it : Familiarize yourself with the currency and exchange money only through legitimate sources, such as banks and hotels. Always check the amount of currency against the receipt, in case the employee swiped a few bills. Pay with smaller denominations and never rush the transaction: Count out the money as you pay and double-check the change. To avoid exchanging money altogether, use prepaid currency cards or ATMs. For the latter, inspect the machine for skimmers (devices that steal your password) and post a friend as a security guard during the withdrawal.

Sample destinations : Colombia, Vietnam, China, Turkey, Egypt, Argentina

Suspicious invitations and petitions

The scam : A local wants to practice English or needs help writing a letter in English. The individual takes you to a store, where an employee pressures you to buy something . . . A stranger invites you to a teahouse, restaurant or bar. At the end of the meal or drink, the waiter delivers an exorbitant bill and insists that you pay it . . . A disabled person or a charity worker asks you to sign a petition and donate money to a cause; an accomplice might lift your wallet during the interaction . . . A fake tour operator offers you an excursion or safari that never materializes.

How to avoid it : Never accept invitations from strangers, provide translation services or engage with individuals carrying a clipboard. Only take tours with certified operators.

Sample destinations : China, Thailand, Turkey, Spain, Malaysia, India, Tanzania

Deceptive information

The scam : A driver motions for you to pull over, claiming you have a problem with your car. You abide and are robbed . . . A cabdriver or pedestrian directs you to a train or bus ticket office that sells bogus tickets. Their friend runs the fake booth and splits the profit . . . Someone posing as a hotel employee calls your room and says the front desk has an issue with your credit card and needs your numbers again . . . An impostor pretending to be an undercover police officer issues you a fine for a bogus minor offense.

How to avoid it : Don’t pull over unless you hear a noise or see an emergency light pop on. If you must stop, find a commercial area busy with cars and people. Know the exact location of the ticket office, and don’t let anyone tell you differently. Ask to see the officer’s credentials and know the local laws.

Sample destinations : India, Sicily, Costa Rica, Mexico, South Africa, Mexico, Colombia, Britain

The shell game

The scam : A game maestro plays hide-and-seek with three cups and a ball. Players bet on the round object’s location. Associates acting as tourists guess correctly, or the leader of the scam allows a few real people to win. Eventually, the scammer will remove the ball or pay the winners with counterfeit money. Pickpockets also roam the crowd.

How to avoid it : Don’t stop to watch, much less play.

Sample destinations : Paris, Barcelona, Copenhagen, Vienna, Tehran, Milan

Item switcheroo and knockoffs

The scam : A vendor shows you a high-end item, such as a leather purse or wallet, and you agree on a reasonable price. After paying, the seller substitutes the item for a knockoff. Another possibility: The product was a fake from the get-go . . . An antique with a rich history was actually made yesterday. Or a precious gem turns out to be worthless.

How to avoid it : Do not buy high-fashion accessories or antiques from street vendors or shady-looking shops. Only purchase goods from reputable dealers and stores that can provide documents of authenticity.

Sample destinations : China, Italy, Turkey, Paris

The not-so-helpful stranger

The scam : A stranger approaches a couple or family and volunteers to snap a group photo. You hand over your camera or smartphone, and the stranger runs off with it . . . A local asks if you need help with the ATM and palms your bank card or pickpockets you while you are responding.

How to avoid it : Never trust a stranger with your camera or phone. Use a selfie stick if you must. Ask friends or family members to stand guard while you are using an ATM and don’t let anyone approach while you are in the middle of a transaction.

Sample destinations : Vatican City, Paris, Rome, Budapest, Prague, Johannesburg, Philippines, Nicaragua

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Protect Your Trip »

6 Sneaky Travel Scams to Watch Out For

Look out for these red flags to avoid getting duped on your next trip.

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Don't let scams ruin your travel plans.

In the summertime, when the temperatures sizzle, there are few things as alluring as skipping town to enjoy a cool breeze and enticing outdoor attractions in an exotic locale. While deciding to plan a relaxing summer getaway is simple, pulling off a stress-free trip that dodges common pitfalls – from petty theft to currency scams – can present a challenge. In the summer, when the majority of jet-setters are infrequent, leisure travelers, "scams are ubiquitous," says Christopher Elliott, a consumer advocate and journalist. For this reason, we consulted top travel experts for advice on avoiding rip-offs and outsmarting swindlers on your next trip.

The Fee-Free Online Listing Hoax

With a growing number of online travel booking sites , there's an influx of hoax third-party domains across the web. According to research conducted by the American Hotel and Lodging Association, some $1.3 billion is funneled into the hands of scammers each year. And with a rapidly increasing number of mobile bookings, it's become more challenging to distinguish between trustworthy and dubious travel sites. These sites offer fake reservations, which lack services or amenities or advertise higher nightly rates and can even lead to identity theft.

Travel booking sites are also starting to quote low nightly rates but tack on extra fees throughout the reservation booking process, Elliott says. "You can end up with a grand total that's 20 to 50 percent higher than when you started. You're already psychologically invested in the transaction, and they know it," he explains. Recently, travel companies have also started "hiding the disclosure of these fees in pop-up windows or at the bottom of the screen in even smaller fonts," Elliott says. "Why? Because they can. And because it's very profitable. But it's not an honest profit," he explains. To avoid this vacation-ruining misstep, Elliott suggests closely evaluating the initial price quoted along with the final price, with taxes and other mandatory fees rolled in. "That's particularly true for hotels , many of which charge a mandatory 'resort' fee, but only disclose it after you've started the reservation process," he explains.

"Sometimes, you'll see fantastic flight deals or hotel deals that are only available from one booking site," explains Zach Honig, editor-in-chief of the points-and-miles site The Points Guy. But if it's not a major online travel agency that you're familiar with – think: Expedia or Priceline – or one with user-generated reviews from reputable forums, such as FlyerTalk, stay away from it to avoid a fraudulent listing, he says.

The Free Wi-Fi Trick

If you come across free Wi-Fi access in an empty and unfamiliar internet cafe and it seems too good to be true, it might be. "This is an old trick," explains Shaun Murphy, communication security expert and inventor and co-founder of Sndr, a platform that enables users to share files, emails and social media messages on a single device. While you surf the internet and check your email, a scammer can easily steal your credit card and other sensitive information, he explains. There are also plenty of small devices schemers use to track information through your cellphone. For example, WiFi Pineapple, a $100 wireless platform meant for security auditing, can be used by hackers to get instant access to your phone as soon as you connect to a fraudulent Wi-Fi network. Murphy also recommends avoiding downloading free apps in a suspect location, especially if you're asked to provide your credit card information. And to protect yourself, "always make sure your devices are locked and encrypted," he says, noting it's also critical to have a decent password to safeguard sensitive data while traveling.

[See: 8 Simple Ways to Save on Your Beach Getaway This Summer .]

The Dynamic Currency Conversion Scam

When it comes to making purchases overseas with a credit card, the key is to avoid paying in your home currency (also known as a dynamic currency conversion), Honig explains. Paying in the local currency can make a 1 to 2 percent difference in the exchange rate, he explains. What's more, you may be asked to pay an extra service fee, so while it may seem convenient to pay in a familiar currency, it can be costly. And don't forget, you'll still have to pay foreign transaction fees for dynamic currency conversions, and that fee will likely be a higher dollar amount since the conversion will have hiked up the cost of the purchase.

The Streetside Cash Exchange Trick

While it may seem like a smart idea to skip converting your currency at the bank to get the best rate, the reality is, it's easy to get duped. Honig recalls a trip to Buenos Aires a few years ago when tourists were incentivized with a favorable exchange rate on the street, with twice as many Argentine pesos offered compared to the bank, and visitors walked away with fake bills. That said, "you can be brought into a currency scam wherever you are," Honig says, making it critical to know the particular security features of the bills in your travel destination to better verify authenticity. When in doubt, it's best to exchange your currency at your bank or an in-network ATM, he adds.

The Skimmer Swindle

ATM scams are nothing new, but nowadays hackers are finding novel ways to trick travelers into providing personal information through skimming technology, which allows thieves to read cards not only at ATMs, but also at gas stations and other public places. "Criminals are trying to do anything they can do to grab onto that magnetic strip," Murphy says. With the chip and pin, it's becoming more difficult for fraudsters to retrieve this information, but it's still essential to have safeguards in place. "See if you can use a digital app," Murphy suggests, pointing to Apple Pay and Android Pay as safe bets. Apart from using a digital wallet while traveling, he recommends using a separate credit card, rather than a debit card for gas purchases. Honig echoes similar sentiments. "If you're suspicious of an ATM, don't use it," he says, pointing out that while it's easy to spot a fake pin pad, a skimmer is hard to spot. "If you can – always pay with a credit card," he adds, noting they have enhanced security features to protect against fraudulent activity.

[See: 10 Tips to Track Down the Hottest Summer Vacation Bargains .]

The Phony Vacation Rental Listing

When booking a vacation rental, Honig recommends only using trusted peer-to-peer platforms with a well-regarded reputation, such as Airbnb or HomeAway, which offer added support and security features. With Airbnb, for example, you can protect yourself thanks to tools such as user reviews, a vetted messaging system and verified ID badges, which are given by Airbnb when a user or host confirms their personal details, provides their personal social network or offers an official ID. Honig also recommends renting through a venerable rental site for peace of mind, noting that if you book a bogus stay on Airbnb, you'll get access to alternate accommodations, among other protections.

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20 Common Travel Scams and How You Can Avoid Them

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Tips

Updated On: April 11, 2024

In many large cities across the globe, thieves hunt from the shadows. They are armed with countless travel scams to take your money. These travel tips help you avoid them.

Like a lion stalking its prey on the Serengeti, thieves aim to blend into their surroundings while staring intently at their next victim . They’re waiting to catch them with their travel scams. The good news is that akin to lions hunting for weakened gazelles, travelers can avoid being robbed by being aware of their surroundings. Thieves are willing to take risks, but they also calculate those risks.

Crooked opportunists take many shapes and forms, and while your time abroad will probably be incident-free, it is vital to be prepared.

Table of Contents

How to Avoid Travel Scams

Here is a list of common travel scams to make it easier for you to spot the danger signs and avoid any sticky situation.

1. Bump and Grab

The most common travel scam is the bump and grab, where a thief or a gang of thieves distract you with a bump and then proceed to lift your valuables from your pocket and/or purse. This method is most popular in the metro .

Victims of this method are often swarmed by several people who are pushing them, while at the same time, pick their pocket. Another trick is to grab the purse of someone standing/sitting near the door and get off the metro just as the doors are closing.

How to Avoid the Bump and Grab

The best way to avoid these travel scams is to stay one step ahead of the thief.

First – spread out all your valuables; never keep all your important documents, cards and/or your passport in one place.
Second – never put a wallet or anything of value in either your front or back jeans pocket.
Third – Individuals should always opt for cross-body purses with zippers (no flimsy one-button purses).
Pay Attention – Whenever I am bumped on a subway, bus or in the street, my hand immediately goes to the zipper of my over the shoulder bag.

I am always aware of my valuables and my attention immediately goes to my things before they can catch my attention. It may just be an innocent bump, but if someone is trying to pick my pocket, they won’t succeed.

2. Distraction – ‘You have Gunk on You’ Scam

There are two variations of this travel scam, but it starts out with someone putting something, such as mustard or ketchup ( there have been reports of human/animal feces being thrown at travelers ), on your body.

The thief will either smear something on your back or the substance will be thrown at you from an unknown location. Then, a seemingly innocent bystander will come to tell you that you have something on your back or offer you a tissue. The point of this travel scam is to get you to take off your backpack, purse and/or camera.

How to Avoid the Distraction

If someone tells you that you have something on your back, do not take off your backpack to check! Instead, keep walking, ignore any “Good Samaritans” and only remove your bags when you are in a safe and secure location.

3. Fake Officials

When traveling, you might think you can trust the police or security. However, every so often, on trains and in the streets, fake officials will ask to see your documents and ask for a bribe to get them back. Never hand over your documents if you feel that something is fishy.

How to Survive Fake Officials

Instead, ask them to take you to the police station, where you will be happy to show your documents. Or ask the people around you for help. “Many friendly locals in India offered us advice and helped us when in need”.

4. Wrong Class on Transportation

When traveling in India, we encountered many fake officials on trains that tried to separate us from our money and documents. This is a difficult travel scam to catch since we are conditioned to trust the police.

Official-looking men boarded the train to ask for our documents. They looked official complete with a notebook and official badge. When they asked to see our tickets, they told us we were in the wrong class and compartment but told us we could stay if we paid the upgrade fee. We fell for this once.

It wasn’t until another official came by later to look at our tickets that we realized we were scammed. The real offical simply stamped our tickets and moved on,

How to Avoid This

Avoiding this travel scam can be tricky, especially in a place like India, where figuring out the train system is complicated. The best way to avoid paying extra fees is to do your research. Ask the ticket desk how much it is to upgrade on the train and know the full cost of the ticket before getting on.

Officials will never ask for more money than they need. And when in doubt ask the people around you. Locals are always happy to lend a hand.

5. Bus Scams

Buses can be one of the riskiest places to be separated from your belongings when traveling. It’s important to remain diligent while traveling on a bus and keep an eye out for these travel scams.

Common travel scams on the bus

A stranger helping you stow your bag above your seat while his accomplice picks your pocket or slashes your backpack.
Another variation of this scam includes a Good Samaritan who was helping you stow your luggage, suddenly taking it off with your bag and/or handing it off to a runner near the front of the bus.
While you are sleeping, you wake up to find all your belongings gone.

How to Avoid Bus Travel Scams

The best way to avoid bus scams is to be extremely wary of overly helpful locals. And to keep an eye on your belongings. Never let your bags out of your sight, keep your most valuable possessions as close to you as possible and never allow strangers to touch or handle your bags.

If we do go to sleep, we wrap our bags around our feet or arms. We also carry a PacSafe or padlock on a chain to lock our valuables up while we are sleeping.

We have more tips on how to travel safely on a bus here.

6. Counterfeit Money

This type of travel scam is most common in restaurants and in taxis. At the end of the meal/ride, you hand the employee a bill, and he/she will claim that your bill is fake. They will return the bill to you and ask for a different type of payment.

The problem is that you did end up giving them a real bill and while you weren’t looking they swapped the real bill with a counterfeit one.

How to Avoid the Counterfeit Money Scam

To avoid this type of scam, make sure to familiarize yourself with the country’s currency before arrival. Pay close attention when paying and use exact change when you can. Try to change money into small bills at your hotel or a bank, so that you won’t be a target in this scam.

7. ATM Scams

ATM skimmers can apply different methods in order to steal your card and relevant banking information. A common traevel scam is to connect a skimmer device attached to the mouth of an ATM. It will then secretly note the credit card and debit card information when customers slip their cards into the machine.

Another method of this travel scam is to place a sticky or plastic slip inside of the slot, which will cause your card to get stuck in the machine. Once again, a “Good Samaritan” will be on hand to “help” you and might suggest that you call the phone number, often a fake number, on the machine for help.

How to Avoid the ATM Scam

The best way to avoid this travel scam is to always use ATMs in reputable banks. When in a foreign country, we always give the ATM card reader a little shake to make sure it is real.

If the ATM sucks in your card, refusing to give it back, then go into the bank immediately. And if you end up losing your card, call your bank immediately and cancel the card. We have had ATMs keep our card in both Argentina and Turkey. But had no problem after letting our banks know what happened.

In the end, never give out your personal pin to anyone in person or on the phone.

8. The Swarm

Similar to the distraction, this travel scam sees you surrounded on a bus or subway by a group of people. It seems innocent enough. It’s crowded, and they are moving around you to find a space. While people nudge and distract you, others rummage through your bags and take what they need.

Our Experience

Dave and I were victims of this in Namibia. A kind-looking gentleman squeezed into the seat beside me while the bus filled up with people. We laughed together as we acknowledged how tight the quarters were, and we didn’t notice until we left the bus that our shiny new camera was gone.

How to Avoid this Scam

In the end, the best thing you can do to avoid this is to be prepared. If people are making eye contact or trying to get your attention while the crowds grow, ignore them. Keep an eye on your belongings.

Keep your valuables zipped up in an over the shoulder bag, or sitting on your lap attached to your body. And keep your hands at the zipper to keep things safe.

19. The Ring Scam

We had the ring scam happen to us in Paris, but it is also popular in Rome and other European tourist destinations. Places like the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum seem to have a lot of ring scamming going on. A lot of scams happen around famous tourist sites like Notre Dame and Sacre Coeur, so always be on guard in any city’s popular tourist destinations.

As you walk along a street, a ring falls on the ground in front of you, and then a woman runs to pick it up asking if it is yours. Honestly, I was tempted to say yes.

I wish I did say yes because when you say no, the “kind” passerby offers to sell it to you. When you say you don’t want it, they keep badgering you until you hand over some money.

We have learned that the best way to avoid travel scams at popular tourist attractions is to keep a serious look on your face, don’t make eye contact, and give the impression that you are well-traveled. (even if you are not)

When people approach us, we give a sharp head nod “no” while looking very serious. It gives the impression that we’ve already fallen for this scam and they can’t fool us twice!

10. The Friendly Local

I hate to say ignore friendly locals. Usually, the local people are just that, “friendly locals trying to help.” But other times, they are not.

People will often approach us and say they want to practice their English or learn about your country. After a few minutes of friendly chatting, they suggest that you come with them to their office or shop. You feel obligated to be nice to your new friend and soon find yourself in a high-pressure sales situation to buy art or jewelry.

There is no harm in talking to locals and we’ve had some great interactions with people. So, to avoid this, we suggest when you talk to someone, simply be aware that it could happen.

Keep an eye on your belongings, keep your valuables locked in their zippers, and when they ask you to come with them, say no. You have a right to say no and if they keep pressuring you, tell them you have to be somewhere and cut them off. Be firm, but be nice and they will usually walk away.

11. It’s Closed Today

The “it’s closed today scam” is a very common travel scam in Southeast Asia. Many times as you approach a tourist attraction and locals will tell you it’s closed before you have a chance to see for yourself. Don’t fall for this.

They are going to talk you into going to another attraction that isn’t as good and that they will get a kickback from. And you’ll end up missing out on the attraction you want to see.

How to Avoid

The way to avoid the it’s close today scam is to take a look for yourself. Even if they are persistent, tell them you want to see for yourself. Keep walking, look straight ahead and keep an eye on your valuables.

Chances are they will walk along with you trying to distract you, but don’t fall for it. They are hoping you will eventually believe them and follow along instead of forging ahead. But it never hurts to check things out for yourself.

12. I’m Your Waiter at Your Hotel Scam

We’ve had this travel scam more often lately. The scam goes something like this. We’ll be walking down the street when a man says “hi!” acting like he knows us.

They then he says, “ I served you last night at your hote l.” Surprisingly, they often get our hotel correct. It could be because they have followed us from our hotel and kept an eye on us for an hour or so before approaching.

They then tell you that it’s the last day of a big sale or big festival and if you want to see it, follow them. Coincidentally, they are on their way there now.

Don’t fall for this

A server or front of house staff at your hotel will never approach you on the street. If someone does, ignore them. They have probably been watching you.

In Cuba, there was an entire network watching us in Havana. After leaving our hotel, a “ friendly waiter wanted us to buy cigar s,” when we went back to the main city square, another “friendly guy” knew our hotel as well and told us his cousin could give us a cheap deal on a Classic Car tour. “Special for Iberostar guests!”

The way to avoid this travel scam is to find your own tour and if in doubt, book through your hotel or at the tourism information centre located in most downtown squares.

13. The Switcharoo

We fell for this travel scam in the Middle East in Marrakech . Before visiting a local family for dinner we bought some figs at Jemma el Fna Market to take with us as a gift. (A tradition when visiting a home in Morocco)

We tasted the delicious juicy figs and ordered a large bag to take with us to dinner. While talking away to the very friendly vendor, we didn’t notice that he went behind the counter and filled the bag with old rotten figs. It was quite embarrassing to show up at a house with a bag of bad figs.

I have heard this happen to people on a far more expensive scale. They have paid for expensive carpets, jewelry, and expensive art only to unwrap it and find it is not what they bought.

How to Avoid the Switcharoo Scam

To avoid the “switcharoo” travel scam, make sure you keep an eye on your purchase at all times. Don’t let it out of your sight.

Once you have picked out the item you want, make sure it doesn’t go into a back room or behind the desk before it is wrapped. Don’t let people distract you with conversation and never let them take it away to wrap it up. Double-check everything before you leave the store or market.

14. The Bracelet Scam

I (Deb) get this one a lot. This travel scam is common on beaches and in cities. A woman will often come up to me to offer a free bracelet, or a hand made crown. Instead of waiting for me to say “I don’t want it,” they put it on without giving you a chance to say no and refuse to take it back.

The more you try to give it back, the more they offer their services to braid your hair or put more jewelry on your wrist or head. Before you know it, you are wearing bracelets, your hair is half braided, and they are painting your nails.

How to Avoid the Bracelet Scam

I have learned to give a firm head shake when I see this travel scam happening. When they approach me I firmly let them see “ I know what you are up to .” It’s quite amazing how quickly they will turn and walk away when you say no with a firm nod.

I can usually tell now when someone is going to try to put something on my head or arm. It’s all about catching them in the act before they have a chance to pounce.

I admit, I was in a good mood once on a visit to Istanbul and when someone put a crown on my head, (see photo above) I paid them a couple of bucks. Once in a while, I know I’m being scammed, but hey, even some of the scammers are people too right?

15. Short Change

We just had this travel scam happen in Mexico at a pharmacy of all places! Dave and I were on one of our first official vacations in years. Usually, we check exchange rates before leaving home and have all information on hand. But this time we booked an all-inclusive luxury stay and had no plans to venture off the resort.

On a rainy day, we decided to go to the pharmacy to stock up on medication. We only had USD, but it is widely accepted in Playa del Carmen so we didn’t worry. We paid with a 20 dollar bill and she gave us change in Pesos. Since we were in a pharmacy, we didn’t question it. When we got on the bus to go back to the resort, we realized she shorted us about $5. Letting our defenses down cost us money. Not a lot, but we were still out $5.

How to Get the Correct Change

This is a common travel scam in high tourist areas. Scam artists rely on the fact that most people don’t know the exchange rate and that most people aren’t changing their money into local currency.

Before you travel, look up the exchange rate and use XE Currency converter. Don’t be embarrassed to count your change in front of the person giving you the change before you leave the establishment.

And, look up what coins and local currency look like before leaving home. We were lazy and fell for one of the oldest travel scams in the book.

16. The Begging Baby

Common in Southeast Asia, Central, and South America, this travel scam sees young women who will often approach you with a baby in their hands. Usually, it is just a doll. Sadly, sometimes a young girl is given a baby by criminals to prey on the emotions of tourists. You feel sorry for them and are compelled to give money. Don’t give into this. It only helps support the crime rings.

There are many similar scams like this with maimed or injured beggars too. You may feel that you want to help the poor child or help the injured, but they have to give the money to the leader of the organization and you are not helping them at all.

How to Avoid Falling for This

After watching Slumdog Millionaire my heart sank. Dave and I actually saw old blind men singing on trains in India that clearly had their eyes scorched out by criminal rings years ago. It was unbearably sad. But if you give to them, you are only helping the men/women who put them there.

If you want to give money, find a charity to give you instead. Don’t give to kids on the street.

17. Taxi Scams

There are so many taxi scams around the world, they deserve their own article. Taxi drivers rig their meters or say that the meter is broken in every city. In many places, people pose as taxi drivers when they are not licensed or qualified.

A common cab scam is that many taxi drivers will take you on a wild goose chase driving you to establishments that pay them a commission rather than taking you to your desired destination.

The best way to avoid taxi scams is to look for official taxis. It’s easy to do a Google search to find what the official taxi colors are of the destination you are visiting.

If you need a taxi when landing at the airport, go to the official taxi stand, or official taxi office before you leave the airport. Don’t fall for touts approaching you at the luggage carousel. Go to the official taxi stand or waiting area.

At your hotel, have the concierge or manager call you a taxi.

18. Prepaid Taxi Scam

This is one of the most common travel scams you will find throughout the world. You have arrived at the airport or train station. You are exhausted and it is the middle of the night.

Cab drivers, tuk-tuk drivers, motor taxis, and more will approach you before you barely have time to get off the platform and offer their services to take you to a hotel. They will tell you that the prepaid booth is closed, or that there isn’t one there.

Don’t let these touts pressure you. They are really good at their scamming skills, but just ignore them and continue to look for the official booths. Take your time to look around and ask the right people where the prepaid taxi booth is.

You will pay a fair price to your hotel of choice and avoid being overcharged or taken to the wrong destination.

19. If It’s Too Good to Be True, It is

If someone offers you a ride for a price that seems too good to be true, it is a scam. We’ve fallen for this travel scam ourselves. A tuk-tuk driver asked us where we were going, and we answered. They gave us a price that was way below the expected fee. Excited, we say yes.

You hop in the taxi (in Asia, it is often a tuk-tuk), and instead of taking you to your requested destination, your driver takes you all around the city, stopping at gem dealers, carpet shops, and tea houses.

You end up in the completely opposite direction of where you asked to go, and the only way to get back is to appease them and go into all the shops, wasting your day.

How to Avoid the Too Good to be True Scam

The way to avoid this is to know the approximate amount of your cab fare before getting in the taxi. It’s easy to check online or ask at your hotel. If the price sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Follow your instincts. If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

20. The Over Charge Scam

Dave and I have fallen for this one so often it is embarrassing. We’ve actually had an argument while sitting in the taxi that was scamming us, as we blamed each other for getting scammed at this exact moment. Our driver didn’t care. We were in the middle of the scam and it was too late. We had to pay him to get out of the cab.

How to Avoid Being Overcharged in a Taxi

The best way to avoid being overcharged by a taxi is to agree on a price before getting into the cab. Negotiate on a price while standing outside and then get in only when the price is agreed upon.

Or if they have a meter, request that they use it before you get in the car. It is also good to have a rough idea of what a taxi costs. We were just in Cuba and did our research before going. We learned that short trips in a Taxi Particular cost about $5. That gave us a rough idea of where to start so we could judge the distance on longer trips.

The internet should be your best friend, Google should be used religiously and you should never leave the house without proper travel insurance.

Remember to be aware; be cautious, but most importantly have fun!

Final Thoughts

Easier targets for travel scams can include confused travelers, drunken messes and overly anxious first-timers that tend to clutch their valuables in order to protect them.

Simply put; if you are confident, aware and most importantly, sober traveler than they’ll probably move on to an easier target.

Have you ever been duped? Tell us what Common Travel Scams you’ve fallen for around the world.

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Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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45 thoughts on “20 Common Travel Scams and How You Can Avoid Them”

I agreed on a price with a horse carriage, and on getting out handed over the money and walked away. The driver called me back and showed me that one of my notes was a much smaller note then I thought I had given him. I apologised and gave him the correct money and only later realised that he had switched the note and that I had originally paid him correctly. Always hand over the money with the notes visible and not folded so that they can’t do this to you.

be care with your c.c. when going to hotels scamers could copy your c.c . Info onto their phone, phones have came along way since ma bell and the apps that come with them can do just about anything, never let your card out of your sight. Also, we have people in Arizona who like to break you down mentally to steal your things, they will whisper, usually in the room next to you, sound crazy its not they try to act as if they are the voice of God, they try to get you to talk, give up personal info. My advice, don’t give in, call the police, they may think your nuts, but let’s be real, you know you, and if you know God, God will tell you whats feels right and whats not. Trust God, if God want you to have something,,you will have it, nothing can stop god. With that,don’t fall for scams.

OH and I have visited Rio de Janiero many times and never encountered a problem until last December. We were walking along he pavement at Copa Cabana beach, early evening and it was still light. We were approached by 4 children aged 7 or 8, asking for money for food, we said we had no money and walked on. About 100-200mts later a street seller came in front of us and demonstrated a folding handbag, we could not continue walking as he was directly in front of us, at the moment we had to stop, one of the children who stopped us asking for money earlier, ran up and grabbed my chain bracelet from my wrist and ran hell for leather across the pavement, 8 lanes of fast moving traffic and disappeared down a side street. Everyone around just stopped, needless the hand bag demonstator disappeared. I wasn’t injured in any way, just shocked

I had the bracelet scam in Paris. It happened to me at Sacre Coeur. It happened so fast, I didn’t even know what was happening. They managed to place the bracelet on my wrist but I was lucky to react quick enough before they tied it tight and I was forced to pay them.

In San Francisco, a musician stopped us to ask where we were from, and then talk about his music. I thought it was just a local having a conversation, but then he proceed to sell us his CD for 5 bucks. We politely declined and then he requested a small donation in lieu. We threw him a couple of dollars just to leave us alone. We figured sometimes people can use it more than us.

Great information. Thanks for sharing.

I was in the tourist district of Berlin, middle of the day, and some innocent looking guy came up to ask me to take a photo for him. I did it, and after he looked at the photo, he said it wasnt good enough and asked to me to do another one. After a couple more tries, he was happy with it. I thought in my mind, wow this guys is picky, but didnt raise any red flags yet. then he asked me where i am from, etc. Then he said thank you and and gave me a high five. I said ok, then he said left hand too (where i wear my watch), to be nice i complied without a second thought. Then he grabbed my wrist then suddenly his two frinds showed up and grabbed me on my shoulders and started distracting me. I immediately felt something was up and pushed them away, checked my wallet and phone and made sure they are there. Had a jacket on and did not immediately thought about my watch. They said have a nice day a quickly walked away. I did not find out my watch was missing until at least 15 minutes later..these guys are pro, and lesson well learnt, .He stole the watch off me in in literally one second.

The Gypsy Monkey grinder at the Brandenburg Gate in Germany of all places. While you pose with him, she bumps up against your partner taking the picture to steal or find the wallet.

Thank goodness my husband is very travel savvy. Instead he enjoyed the flirt and kept all our money safe while he took my picture.

We have had the ring- trick tried on us but it didnt work! Also switching money in Peru! Great article!

Hi Deb and Dave, Thanks for all the important tips, I have also been a victim in Paris (the bracelet trick at the Sacre Coeur), in Rome watch out for people dressed up as gladiators at the Colisseum, if they see you taking pictures they kindly offer to take a picture of you with them with your phone/camera and they ask for money afterwards (they pressure you as they have your phone and become agressive if you dont give them the money. A typical scam in Italy is also to give you a rose and ask for money once you touch it. In Spain (specially in the south) outside churches the gipsy women offer you a flower (the same trick). But the worse I have seen was in India. A woman with a baby asked my sister for money in order to buy formula to feed her baby and when my sister affered to buy the formula herself the woman was very thankful. My sister got into the store, bought the milk and handed it to the woman. A few minutes later we saw the woman returning the formula in exchange for money. The worst part was that the shop assistants know what the scamers are doing…

Good looking out on the heads up about “travel scams.”

Great article, thanks for the tips! Indeed, home to unspoilt rainforests, the Galapagos Islands, Inca monuments, colonial architecture and Quito, a city that marries ancient architecture and modern touches, Ecuador is a fascinating place to visit.

However, there are tourist-targeting scammers and petty crime to be wary of.

Do be wary of the Galapagos cruise scam, pickpockets, TAME airlines ticket scam, border crossing taxi money exchange, hotel scam, credit card fraud, and many more!

Thanks for the informative article, it really helps to give me an idea of what to look out for! I have always wanted to travel alone, hopefully one day i’d actually able to do so! Cheers!

Loved the post. Well, I had come across few of these instances. Creative idea to make post ok this topic.

I had a recent one happen to me in Cambodia where I went on a tour with a Tuk Tuk driver where he said I would see some floating villages and various other things. I paid $12 for his time for a couple of hours.

What he didn’t tell me was that I would then have to get a boat tour if I wanted to see the floating villages which was $30 (I presume he would have got commission). I refused to pay for that.

I then checked how much a tour to see the floating villages would cost at a travel agency and they said $18. So I definitely felt a bit scammed and probably wouldn’t have paid him the $12 for the tour in the first place.

Wow! there are some scams on here that I’ve never heard of. Thanks for keeping us informed.

Great list guys! We fell for the ‘Milk for my baby’ scam in Cambodia. Very young mothers approach with a baby- I am thinking it probably was their baby sister they were so young. They only ask for milk, not money, so we thought we would help out. Come to find out these young girls have an arrangement with local small stores and will return the milk you give them and get money. Not only are you scammed by the girls, the store owners get to resell the milk so they are involved as well. Oh well, live and learn right? Cheers!

I didn’t fall for it because I’d done my research so I knew it was a scam, but I was approached by 3 or 4 young Eastern European girls (Roma maybe?) in Paris. They shoved a ratty piece of paper in my face and asked me to sign their petition. I knew that if I did either one of them would pickpocket me while I was distracted or they’d try to extort money from me saying that I’d just written that I would or something like that. After walking away (and having them follow), repeatedly saying “Non” and “No”, I eventually resorted to a little Korean I know and loudly and firmly said “??! ??” (“No! Goodbye”), which confused them long enough for me to put some distance between us. One of them called me a name but that was the end of it. I guess white girl shouting Korean was weird enough for them to back off.

A scam I’ve seen twice, in Egypt and India, is the “I have too much change” trick. I was taking a taxi in Cairo, which should have cost 10. The driver told me “I have to stop to the bank, because I have too much change”. In a country where it’s really difficult to *get* change, this should have triggered a warning. But I fell for it, very happy to find some change. I said “I’ll give you a 100 bill for your change, if you want”.

So, he gave me 90, and said I should give him my 100 bill at the end of the ride. The whole duration of the ride, I was skeptical. Where’s the scam? I was asking myself. But I had counted multiple times the 90 he gave me, and it was fine. So, at the end of the ride, I gave him the 100 bill, said thank you, and just lowered my head half a second, to pick up my bag at my feet. When I raised back my head, he had a 10 pointed at my face and said “Hey! You gave me 10!”. For 2 full seconds, I thought I had done a mistake. Then, I could visualize myself holding the 100 the whole trip. So, I just ignored what he said and left the cab. He didn’t say anything more, meaning that I was right.

The exact same thing happened in India, but we were 2 in the cab. My friend was just about to fall for the trap, but I recognized it and said “No, you already paid the right amount!”

While we were in Rome we witnessed a great scam. A young woman (gypsy) with an large blanket wrapped around her arm which any observant parent would think was a baby asks for a handout for money to buy her baby food. While the tourist is searching for money the gypsy or a cohort picks your pocket or grabs the purse and flees. This was around the Coliseum.

Hi Dave and Deb I have been travelling since 1987 and have been extremely lucky when it comes to scams, but I nearly fell short once in Bangkok, Thailand. A well-dressed Asian couple asked me where I had bought the T-Shirt I was wearing that day and I told them that I had got it at the MBK Shopping Complex. They thanked me and invited me for lunch which, seemed rather strange. At the time couldn’t make it and said that I could go the next day. We exchanged telephone numbers, then said goodbye. When I told my Thai friend about the meeting, he immediately said to me that was an invitation to try and rip me off somewhere down the line. This couple phoned me repeatedly at the hotel I was staying but I didn’t take their calls. The moral of the story, you shouldn’t simply trust a stranger on the street no matter what the circumstance might be. It was a lesson I shall not forget. There are a lot of scammers in Thailand. Best to avoid all of them, be polite and simply walk on by.

my plane was late arriving in hong kong & I missed my connecting transfere to my hotel , so I had to get in the taxi line [11pm at night poaring rain & very windy ] as I joined the line a man came up to me and said I have a taxi but he does not like getting in the line & he offered to take me to my hotel & I agreed to this , on the journey he asked me if I hade been to hong kong before& I said yes[ but had not] to avoid being taken around the world the long way . on arrival at the hotel he said that will be $495 I thought that was a high number for a 10 minute ride so I checked the meter & it did say495 that is equivalent to near 50 australian dollars . I gave him 500hong kong dollars [ equivalent to 50 Australian ] & dumb me said keep the change. I later found out I should have been $4.95 . he had blanked out the decimal point with black tape . the average hong kong weekly wage was at the time $500 hong kong a week so he made that money out of me in ten minuts . if he did this 100 times a week he would be a very rich man .

Wow! This is just great information!!

These are really great tips! A lot of them I haven’t heard before.

One sort of funny scam happened to me in Belize. I had stopped in a market and was looking at handmade hammocks when a little girl started talking to me about her school and how excited she was. At first I thought she was just talkative and she went on about how much she loves learning but she can’t always afford school supplies. And then she pulls this display of bracelets out of nowhere and said she sells them to pay for her education. Hook, line, and sinker! I’m prettttttty sure the money wasn’t going to this girl in any way but I just couldn’t tell her I wouldn’t pay $2 for a bracelet. I bought three.

Love the post!

Great article… I love catching up on scams that I’ve not yet heard of… thanks for sharing

Thanks for sharing the great tips. It’s a shame when someone’s trip gets ruined by one of these things and it could have easily been avoided if they knew these tips. Let’s try and educate people a bit more before they travel so they don’t get scammed!

Whether you like the idea or not we often get money from an ATM before we leave the airport when we arrive in a new country. When we arrived in Shanghai, China in June we went to use the ATM, and immediately had someone tell us the ATM doesn’t work with foreign cards, come with him to exchange money. I don’t think so! We tried the card, and everything worked fine, but we did see others fall for his story.

Hi Dave & Deb ?

thanks for this nice post, I love Jet Boat Safari and Hike Bike and Paddle, which one your’s favorite? Thanks

Very nice tips!

I never trust 100% to my guide wherever i have traveled so far. I always ask 2 to 3 local people for any guidance and take my own decision accordingly. Always trusting one stranger is not the way to go as they will try to rip off you. Just my 2 cents.

So many ways to get scammed, but its relatively easy to defend against them when you are aware of the big ones … great post!

Great tips! Thanks for sharing these advices. Its true the travel scams are common to happen with anyone. I was always aware but your tips give me more knowledge

These tips are so important and helpful to any traveler- this is a must-read!

Good tips! I was amazed how many people get taken advantage of in Prague. They exchange money with someone on the street, and instead of getting Euros they are given Belarusian Rubles which are essentially useless. Always best to exchange money at a reputable shop.

Thanks for the great advices and tips. Yes, travel scams are very popular around the world. Everyone should know what to do so travelers can avoid getting into troubles and save their vacation.

Dear travelers, this piece of information comes a bit late, should you have already suffered damages from a scam. But it helps you to avoid such problems in the future!

If your rights as a touristic consumer have been infringed while you were traveling through Latin America and you had to face the problem being completely on your own (you were made to pay a price which was higher than had been agreed, you were sold faked goods, you were a victim of fraud etc.), you might like to know what legistravel.com/en can do for you next time – go and check our website!

However, you can take a few appropriate precautions yourself: we recommend you to make an on-line research before making any payment to book flights, hotel rooms etc. to check, whether the travel agency, which offers the product, has a good reputation. And if you are still not sure, try to buy products, which are offered by travel agencies with a quality award or another quality assurance.

DO NOT GIVE UP YOUR RIGHTS EVER! It is your money after all, and there is no reason why you should give it to people, who have absolutely no right to get it!

Nice article. I would like to tell my own experience. In Mexico I dropped my iPhone in the taxi. I found a taxi after 1 hour, but not my iPhone… Moral: Do not hold the phone in your pocket…

What an insightful tips! Whenever I travel I always bring cash with me and I tend not to wear jewelries such as earrings or rings.

That’s great advice Kristy. I dont’ wear any jewelry except for the handmade stuff that I buy on the road. i love it and I’d wear it over diamonds and gold any day.

I really do offer have wallet inside your body somewhere under clothes.

I’ve been the victim of two common pickpocketing schemes.

In Rome many years ago I was approached by two Gypsy kids. One held a begging sign in front of my face while her six-year-old brother stuck his hand in my pocket and took my wallet. Luckily, I grabbed them fast enough to get my wallet back. Lesson learned: don’t carry a wallet, and divide your money among several pockets.

Then, a few years ago in Ecuador, a thief jumped into the seat next to me on a bus and enlisted my help opening the window — the helpful stranger. Then he abruptly got off the bus. I was suspicious, and kept a tight hold on my camera bag with its expensive equipment. But later I found he’d somehow gotten into my tight jeans pocket and stolen $50. Lesson learned: move immediately if a stranger starts acting overly helpful for no good reason.

I’ve run into several scams while abroad, though thankfully I’ve never been a victim of any of them. While in Rome I saw quite a few gypsy and other street scammers. And at a few other places abroad I’ve seen the fake policeman scam go down (the one where an ‘officer’ asks to see your papers, etc. and then either steals your documentation or solicits a bribe). I think some other good advice is: be aware of your surroundings, if something smells fishy it probably is, and if there’s an “officer” wanting your documents, ask them to take it some place more official (hey, maybe this would be better if we went down to the station) or ask to see their badge first.

Hello there!

Thank you very much for sharing this post. Travelers must read this. Yes, the most common travel theft is the bump and grab. That’s why we really need to be always careful.

Gotta look out for that bump and grab for sure.

Thank you! I am extremely skeptical about using my card overseas and I only use bank ATM, especially when I was in Argentina and someone told me that fake currency was sometimes dispensed from the ATMs!

Good advice here.

We only ever use ATMs inside a bank while traveling to lower the risk of any issues.

Watch CBS News

Five Travel Scams To Avoid

October 30, 2014 / 5:00 AM PDT / CBS San Francisco

When traveling to new locations, chances are you are paying more attention to the sites and attractions than you are to your immediate surroundings. This is why so many people fall victim to various types of travel scams. No one is immune to becoming a victim of these travel scams, however, a little bit of knowledge and some common sense will help reduce the chances of you becoming a target.

Here are five of the most common travel scams you need to be on the lookout for when traveling:

When traveling overseas, many vacationers charge their souvenirs on their U.S. credit cards. This seems harmless, however things can go wrong when the transaction is converted to local currency. The dynamic currency conversion is the process that allows currency exchange rates to be calculated when paying with a credit card. These conversions typically occur through the merchant's bank, however some merchants try to calculate the difference at the point of sale, knowing the money will be converted through their bank. This can cause travelers to lose money on their credit card purchases because the total purchase is being converted to local currency twice.

These scams are most common in Western European countries, especially in Spain. To avoid this scam, pay for all overseas purchases using local currency or an American Express card that uses a closed system when used in foreign countries.

Taxi Drivers

There are many different scams that taxi drivers try on unaware travelers. One common scam is when the taxi driver tells you that his or her meter is broken and will charge you a flat rate upon arrival. To avoid this scam, avoid any taxi that does not have a working meter. Get out and find another method of transportation.

Another taxi scam is one where the driver tells you that the hotel you are going to has burned down or is closed. He or she then offers to take you to another, much better option. However, these options are generally not better and the driver is given a kick-back from the hotel. To avoid, do not allow the driver take you anywhere other than where you booked your accommodations.

Both of these scams are common in Vietnam, Romania, Mexico and India.

There are many rumors floating around about the cab drivers in Las Vegas not being very honest. Sin City is one of the most common travel destinations where travelers can fall victim to a scam. Why? Because they are so overwhelmed with everything there is to do and all of the bright lights.

The scam here involves the driver first insisting that you put all of your bags in the trunk. Then upon arrival at your hotel, he rushes out of the car, opens the trunk saying he will get your bags for you. He acts as if he is placing them on the ground behind the taxi, says he is in a hurry, slams the trunk and drives off. When you go to grab your bags, you discover they are not there and the driver never unloaded the bags.

To avoid this scam, keep you bags with you inside of the cab. If you cannot keep your bags with you, write down the cab driver's name, cab number and company immediately upon getting in the cab. That way you have all of the details should this happen to you.

There are many companies both online and in the areas immediately surrounding theme parks around the world. Many say that they can offer you cheap and inexpensive tickets. Almost all of these companies are not an authorized ticket seller. Many times, when theme park goers purchase these discounted tickets, they end up at the theme park where they discover their tickets are not valid or have already been used.

To avoid this scam, only purchase your tickets directly from the theme park's website, a travel agent or at the park's main entrance. Also, never purchase your theme park tickets through Craigslist, eBay or other similar sources. You have no way of checking to verify that these tickets are legitimate.

Take-Out Menus

This scam is common where there is a high concentration of tourists and big hotels with hundreds of rooms. Here is how it works.

Take-out menus are placed under all of the doors at a resort or hotel. When the guest calls, the number does not take them to an actual restaurant, but to the con artist who has all intentions of stealing a person's identity. When the victim calls to place an order, they are asked for their credit card number. In the end, the pizza never arrives and their credit card is maxed out within the hour.

To avoid this scam, only purchase food from your hotel's room service line or speak to the hotel for a list of legitimate take-out restaurants in the area.

A word of advice from Derek Baron, aka Wandering Earl , who has been traveling the world solo since 1999, is that every traveler should use common sense. "The main thing I tell people," he said, "is to use the same common sense when traveling that they would use back home."

Using common sense and being aware of your surroundings will help reduce your chances of falling victim to the many scam artists found around the world. If you have any issues when traveling overseas, contact the local U.S. Embassy for assistance or talk to local law enforcement when traveling within the U.S.

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The CFO of Mike Lynch’s tech startup Autonomy went to prison. It’s a cautionary tale

Former finance chief Sushovan Hussain was sanctioned by the Financial Reporting Council.

Good morning. The superyacht tragedy last week that took the life of Mike Lynch , a tech millionaire known as the “British Bill Gates,” puts a spotlight on a case that underscores the important role of CFOs in ethical accounting. The finance chief who ran Lynch’s firm Autonomy recently finished serving a five-year U.S. prison sentence and was banned from the industry for almost 15 years.

Autonomy is a software firm that Lynch founded in 1996. The company soared in valuation in the 15 years following its creation, leading to its acquisition by California-based Hewlett-Packard for $11.7 billion in 2011, Fortune reported . Within a year of the acquisition, HP said it had uncovered “accounting improprieties” and “outright misrepresentations” that occurred before it acquired Autonomy. HP wrote down the value of Autonomy by $8.8 billion. (Hewlett Packard split in 2015 into HP Inc. and Hewlett-Packard Enterprises, “both of which have become nimbler, more focused, and more successful companies,” Fortune ’s Diane Brady writes in CEO Daily .)

In a legal battle, HP argued that Lynch and his allies, Autonomy’s former vice president for finance Stephen Keith Chamberlain and former CFO Sushovan Hussain, had used accounting tricks to inflate Autonomy’s value before its sale.

After years of litigation, Hussain was found guilty of 16 counts of fraud in 2018. From 2009 to 2011, he used “backdated contracts, roundtrips, channel stuffing, and other forms of accounting fraud to inflate Autonomy’s publicly-reported revenues,” according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of California. And it was determined that he touted Autonomy’s false and misleading financial statements to senior executives at HP.

Last month, the Financial Reporting Council, a UK regulator for corporate governance, reporting, and audit, banned Hussain from being an accountant until November 2038.

During the trial, Lynch said he was not aware of some of the wrongdoing attributed to him. Key decisions were delegated to subordinates, he said, and also denied other allegations. In June, a court in San Francisco found Lynch and Chamberlain not guilty of criminal charges . They both had faced the same 15 charges, which were one count of conspiracy and 14 counts of wire fraud.

However, Lynch’s legal troubles were not over—there was the civil suit, and possibly U.K. investigations. Last week, Chamberlain died after being hit by a car while running in Stretham, Cambridgeshire, the same week Lynch perished. (You can read Fortune ’s coverage of the yacht tragedy here .)

The decision to bar Hussain from practicing accounting brings to mind a previous conversation I had with Dan Lefler, a partner emeritus at the Los Angeles law firm Irell & Manella LLP, about the fraud risk management process. The buck seemingly stops with the CFO. “At the end of the day, it’s the CFO, and the controller and the people that are actually handling the company’s accounts that you rely on to make sure that they do things right,” he said.

“I do think most CFOs try to do things right,” Lefler told me . “There are a lot of penalties in place for people if they get things wrong.” The Autonomy case makes that especially clear.

Sheryl Estrada [email protected]

The following sections of CFO Daily were curated by Greg McKenna

Leaderboard

Todd Smith , CFO of charter airline Wheels Up (NYSE: UP), is stepping down and leaving the company to take a new role, Wheels Up said. Chief accounting officer Eric Cabezas will act as interim CFO, effective Sept. 9, while a search is conducted for Smith’s replacement. Cabezas joined the company in 2019 and has previously served as interim CFO.

Thomas Liguori was appointed CFO of Valmont Industries (NYSE: VMI), a manufacturer in infrastructure and agriculture. He will succeed Timothy P. Francis, who has served as interim CFO since July 2023 and will remain at the company as chief accounting officer. Liguori was most recently CFO of Fortna, an e-commerce distribution business, and held the same role at Fortune 200 semiconductor company Avnet.

The Federal Reserve is prepared to cut the federal funds rate from its 23-year high, Chair Jerome Powell said during his keynote speech at the central bank’s annual symposium in Jackson Hole, Wyoming on Friday. Powell said he is confident that inflation is approaching the Fed’s 2% target, all but confirming a rate cut at its mid-September meeting.

“The time has come for policy to adjust,” Powell said. “The direction of travel is clear, and the timing and pace of rate cuts will depend on incoming data, the evolving outlook and the balance of risks.”

Brian Coulton, chief economist at Fitch Ratings, told Fortune via email that the Fed would likely chart a gradual course of monetary easing.

“There does not seem to be a serious concern about the risk of an imminent recession and a wave of job losses—i.e., the sort of concerns that could justify rapid rate cuts,” he wrote. “Rather it’s about the diminishing threat of elevated wage growth keeping inflation too high.”

Going deeper

Hybrid working from home improves retention without damaging performance is a new paper published by three authors, including Stanford economist Nicholas Bloom, in the journal Nature . Using more than 1,600 employees at a Chinese online travel agency, Bloom found that employees who work from home two days a week are just as productive and likely to be promoted as their fully office-based peers. Hybrid work reduced quit rates by one-third, with the effect particularly strong among non-managers, female employees, and those with long commutes.

“There is one company in the world that is the foundation for the AI Revolution. And that is Nvidia with the Godfather of AI [CEO] Jensen [Huang] having the best perch and vantage point to discuss overall enterprise AI demand and the appetite for Nvidia’s AI chips looking forward.”

— Dan Ives, managing director and senior equity analyst at Wedbush Securities, said in a note to investors about why he believes Nvidia’s quarterly results on Aug. 28 are the “most important tech earnings in years,” Fortune reported .

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