One of the best things about travel is stepping outside your comfort zone and discovering new and amazing things…unfortunately, this also makes tourists easy targets for scams. Here are some of the most common scams you might come across on your travels.
Bump and grab
A common technique used in crowded areas such as public transportation is the ‘bump and grab.’ One or more individuals will intentionally ‘bump’ into you…and, while you’re preoccupied with that interaction, their accomplice will attempt to grab whatever valuables they can. One of the easiest ways to protect yourself from this is to keep your valuables safe and at hand. Use a crossbody, slash proof bag with locking zippers and carry the bag in front when in particularly crowded areas.
Friendship bracelets
While friendship bracelets are a common version of this scam, it may include other items such as flowers, necklaces, etc. In this scam, an individual will approach and force an item on you—shoving flowers into your hands, dropping a necklace over your neck, braiding a friendship bracelet onto your wrist. Once they have done this, they will demand payment—loudly, so as to cause a scene and attempt to pressure you into paying them. The best way to avoid this situation is to don’t allow anyone to put anything on your or place anything into your hands. If it’s too late, firmly give the item back and walk away.
Something on you
This scam plays out when someone spills their drink on you…or maybe drips a condiment onto your shirt…or points out that you have pigeon poop on your back. While you’re attempting to clean things up, they’re taking off with your valuables. In this situation, don’t be tempted to immediately deal with the mess. Wait until you are in a safe location to address the issue.
Fake petition
Another common ruse is the fake petition. Individuals will approach you asking you to sign a petition for what seems like a good cause. However, once you’ve done so, they’ll often demand a donation to their fake charity. Or, one of their accomplices will have picked your pockets while you were filling out the form.
Found ring
In this scam, someone approaches you saying they have found a ring and ask if it is yours. When you tell them it isn’t yours, they point out that the ring if valuable and offer to sell it to you. However, if you fall for this, you’ll soon find out that the ring is fake! To avoid this scam, simply don’t buy the ring. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Shell game or three card Monte
Common variations include both actual cards and a ball and cup. You’ll be encouraged to bet on the game and they’ll even let you win…at first! But then soon the tides will turn and you’ll end up losing more than you won in the beginning. Still think you can win? Watch this version of cups and balls by Penn and Teller and maybe you’ll think twice. Don’t even stop to watch others get taken by this scam. Crowds around shell games are great locations for pickpockets to work.
Taxis
Taxis are a convenient way to get around a new location, however they’re also full of opportunities for scams. These include changing the previously agreed on price once reaching your destination, taking a longer route to get to the destination to run up the meter, telling you that the accommodations or attraction you’re headed to are closed (when they’re not) and offering an alternative (of which they’ll get a kickback), saying that they don’t have change when you give them a large bill, etc. One of the easiest ways to avoid these issues is to stick with official taxi companies—your hotel can suggest a reputable one.
