When visiting major cities, the allure of vibrant cultures, world-famous attractions, and delicious cuisine can make you drop your guard.
However, amidst the excitement, scammers often lurk, preying on unsuspecting travelers.
City travel scams are common, especially in tourist hotspots, and can quickly turn your dream vacation into a nightmare if you’re not careful.
This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth look at 15 of the most common city travel scams, detailing how each operates, how to recognize them, and most importantly, how to avoid falling victim.
Armed with this knowledge, you can enjoy your travels with confidence.
What Are Common City Travel Scams?
Scammers in large cities often employ tactics that prey on tourists’ unfamiliarity with local customs, language, and geography.
They rely on distraction, intimidation, and deception to trick travelers.
Below is a breakdown of some of the most common travel scams you might encounter when exploring major cities.
1. The “Friendly” Local Scam
Many major cities, particularly those popular with tourists, have scammers who pose as friendly locals.
These individuals approach tourists offering unsolicited help, whether it’s directions, recommendations for restaurants or attractions, or even offering to show you around.
Their friendliness, however, often has a hidden agenda.
These scammers typically lead you to businesses where they receive commissions, restaurants with inflated prices, or even attempt to rob you after gaining your trust.
How It Works: The scammer may approach you, offering to help you find your way or provide tips about the city.
They will be incredibly friendly and make you feel comfortable.
Once they’ve won your trust, they’ll lead you to a business where they receive a commission for bringing tourists, or worse, take advantage of the situation to rob you.
How to Avoid It: Politely decline unsolicited help.
If you need directions or recommendations, it’s safer to ask a verified source like a hotel concierge, a store clerk, or use your smartphone for navigation.
Be especially wary of anyone insisting on guiding you or directing you to a specific business.
2. The Fake Petition Scam
This scam is surprisingly effective and easy to fall for, especially in tourist areas.
A person will approach you with a clipboard, asking for your signature on a petition for a cause that sounds worthy—often something like helping children or advocating for social justice.
As soon as you sign, they’ll demand a donation, sometimes becoming aggressive or loud to pressure you into paying.
In some cases, while you’re distracted signing the petition, an accomplice will attempt to pickpocket you.
How It Works: You’ll be approached by someone, often a young person, asking for your signature.
They’ll tell you it’s for a charitable cause, making you feel like you’re contributing to something positive.
Once you sign, they’ll ask for a donation and may become forceful if you try to leave without paying.
How to Avoid It: Avoid engaging with anyone asking for signatures in crowded areas.
Walk away quickly if approached. If you’re genuinely interested in supporting a cause, do your research and donate through legitimate organizations.
3. The Taxi Overcharge Scam
Taxi scams are rampant in many cities, especially where tourists are unfamiliar with local transportation norms.
Drivers may take longer routes to overcharge, refuse to use the meter, or claim the meter is broken and negotiate an inflated fare.
Some might even manipulate the meter or demand additional fees for luggage or nighttime rides that aren’t standard.
How It Works: After you get in the taxi, the driver will either refuse to use the meter, claiming it’s broken, or take a convoluted route to run up the fare.
They may also ask for extra money for things like “baggage handling fees” or “after-hours service,” which are completely made up.
How to Avoid It: Before entering a taxi, ensure that the driver agrees to use the meter.
If they refuse or say it’s broken, find another taxi. It’s also a good idea to research standard taxi fares and routes to popular destinations.
If possible, use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft, where the price is predetermined.
4. The Fake Police Officer Scam
This scam can be unnerving and often occurs in countries where tourists are unsure of local law enforcement procedures.
A scammer impersonating a police officer will approach you, claiming that they need to check your money for counterfeit bills or investigate some suspicious activity.
Once you hand over your wallet or identification, they’ll make off with your belongings.
How It Works: A person posing as a police officer will approach you, usually flashing a fake badge, and ask to see your identification, wallet, or money as part of an “investigation.”
Once you comply, they’ll take off with your cash, credit cards, or valuables.
How to Avoid It: Real police officers will never ask to check your wallet or handle your cash.
If you’re approached by someone claiming to be an officer, ask to see their badge and offer to go to the nearest police station to handle the issue.
If in doubt, call the local emergency number or seek help from a nearby business.
5. The “Found” Jewelry Scam
In tourist-heavy cities, especially in Europe, the “found” jewelry scam is a popular trick.
A scammer will “find” a piece of jewelry, such as a ring, on the ground and ask if you dropped it.
When you deny ownership, they will offer it to you for free as a gesture of goodwill.
Shortly after, they’ll demand money for it or claim it’s valuable and pressure you into compensating them.
How It Works: A scammer will approach you, holding a ring or piece of jewelry they supposedly found near you.
After you deny it’s yours, they’ll insist you keep it as a gift.
However, after you accept, they’ll demand payment, claiming it’s valuable and you owe them money.
How to Avoid It: If someone approaches you with “found” jewelry, walk away immediately and avoid any engagement.
Don’t accept any items from strangers, no matter how friendly they seem.
6. The Distraction Pickpocket Scam
Pickpocketing is a common risk in any major city, but scammers often use creative distractions to make it easier.
A common method involves spilling something on you, causing a commotion, or staging an argument or street performance.
While you’re distracted, an accomplice will pickpocket you.
How It Works: The scam starts with a distraction—a person spills something on you, another bumps into you, or a street performer grabs your attention.
While you’re focused on the distraction, an accomplice steals your wallet, phone, or other valuables.
How to Avoid It: Stay alert, especially in crowded places. Keep your valuables in a money belt or hidden pouch under your clothes.
Avoid carrying your wallet in your back pocket or having an open bag.
If something unusual happens, such as someone spilling something on you, check your belongings immediately.
7. The Broken Camera Scam
This scam involves a person posing as a fellow tourist who asks you to take a picture of them with their camera or phone.
After you’ve taken the photo, they’ll accuse you of breaking the device and demand compensation on the spot.
They may even have a broken device ready to switch with the one you used.
How It Works: You’ll be asked to take a photo with someone’s camera or phone.
After handing it back, they’ll accuse you of damaging it and demand money for repairs.
If you refuse, they may become aggressive or threaten to call the police, making you feel pressured to pay up.
How to Avoid It: Politely decline requests to take photos for strangers, especially if something feels suspicious.
If you do take a photo, inspect the device first to ensure it’s not already damaged and be cautious of anyone insisting you pay for alleged damages.
8. The “Free” Tour Guide Scam
Tourists love to explore new places, and scammers know this.
A friendly local may approach you and offer to take you on a “free” tour of the city or a famous landmark.
They’ll seem knowledgeable and friendly, but once the tour is over, they’ll demand a high fee, often with intimidation tactics.
How It Works: A scammer will offer to guide you through a popular tourist area, seemingly for free.
After showing you around for a while, they’ll demand a hefty payment, sometimes using aggressive tactics to get their money.
How to Avoid It: Book tours only through reputable agencies or your hotel.
Avoid accepting unsolicited offers for “free” tours from strangers.
If someone approaches you offering a tour, decline and walk away.
9. The Street Performer Scam
While many street performers are legitimate artists trying to make an honest living, some use their performance as a front for scams.
Crowds gather to watch the act, making it easy for pickpockets to blend in and steal from distracted onlookers.
In some cases, the performer themselves may use a “volunteer” from the crowd to scam people by charging them or pickpocketing them directly.
How It Works: A street performer sets up an act in a busy area, drawing a large crowd.
While you’re focused on the performance, accomplices move through the audience, pickpocketing tourists.
How to Avoid It: If you want to watch a street performance, stand back and keep your valuables secure.
Avoid standing in the middle of large crowds, and be cautious of anyone standing too close to you.
10. The ATM Skimmer Scam
Skimming devices are used by scammers to steal card information from unsuspecting ATM users.
These devices are often hard to detect, as they are fitted over the actual card reader.
Once you insert your card, the skimmer copies your card’s data, allowing the scammer to make fraudulent transactions.
How It Works: The scammer installs a skimming device over the ATM
’s card slot. When you insert your card, the skimmer captures your card information.
They may also use a hidden camera to record your PIN as you enter it.
The scammer then uses the stolen information to make withdrawals or purchases.
How to Avoid It: Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable establishments.
Before using an ATM, check for any unusual attachments or loose parts around the card slot.
Always cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN.
11. The “Helpful” ATM Assistant Scam
While using an ATM, you may be approached by someone offering help.
They’ll claim that the ATM is difficult to use or that locals are more familiar with it, offering to guide you through the process.
However, their true intention is to steal your card information or cash.
How It Works: A scammer will approach you while you’re at an ATM, offering assistance.
They may try to convince you that the machine is confusing or claim they know a quicker way to use it.
While you’re distracted, they’ll either steal your card or cash.
How to Avoid It: Never accept help from anyone while using an ATM.
If someone approaches you, cancel the transaction and walk away.
Stick to ATMs in secure, well-lit areas and avoid using machines that appear suspicious.
12. The Bait-and-Switch Scam
This scam often happens in markets or with street vendors, where scammers advertise one product but deliver something of lesser quality or counterfeit.
For example, you might be shown a designer handbag or high-end electronics, but when you make the purchase, you’re handed a fake or defective version of the product.
How It Works: You’ll be shown a high-quality item, such as a designer purse or brand-name electronics.
Once you agree to purchase it, the scammer switches the product with a counterfeit or broken version.
Often, the switch happens quickly, leaving you with a low-quality item after you’ve already paid.
How to Avoid It: Only shop from reputable stores, and avoid buying expensive items from street vendors or markets.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Always inspect the item before handing over money and avoid buying expensive items in high-pressure situations.
13. The Bar or Club Scam
This scam typically involves a friendly local inviting you to a bar or nightclub.
Once inside, you’ll order drinks, and after a few rounds, your new “friend” will disappear.
The establishment will then present you with an outrageous bill, sometimes with threats of violence if you refuse to pay.
In some cases, this scam involves collusion between the staff and the scammer.
How It Works: A local will approach you, offering to show you a great bar or club.
You’ll go together, order drinks, and have a good time.
When it’s time to pay, your “friend” will suddenly disappear, leaving you to foot a massive bill, often far higher than what was consumed.
How to Avoid It: Stick to bars and clubs recommended by trusted sources, such as your hotel or local guides.
If someone you’ve just met invites you to a bar, politely decline.
Always check prices before ordering, and be cautious of establishments that don’t list their prices.
14. The Fake Ticket Seller Scam
Scammers in busy tourist areas often sell counterfeit tickets for attractions or events.
They may approach you outside a popular site, offering what appears to be a great deal on admission.
Once you attempt to use the ticket, you’ll discover it’s fake, and the scammer is long gone.
How It Works: A scammer will approach you near a popular tourist site, offering discounted tickets.
They may claim the tickets are for a sold-out event or that they can help you skip the line.
Once you’ve purchased the ticket, you’ll find out at the gate that it’s invalid.
How to Avoid It: Only purchase tickets from official sources, such as the venue’s website or a recognized ticket office.
Avoid buying tickets from street vendors, no matter how legitimate the offer seems.
15. The Pickpocket Team Scam
Pickpocketing is an age-old scam that often involves a team of scammers working together.
One person will distract you, perhaps by bumping into you, asking for directions, or causing a commotion, while another person steals your wallet, phone, or valuables.
The thief will quickly pass your belongings to an accomplice, making it difficult to recover them.
How It Works: One scammer distracts you by engaging in conversation, bumping into you, or causing a scene.
Meanwhile, another person steals your valuables, often quickly passing them to a third person to avoid detection.
How to Avoid It: Stay vigilant in crowded areas, such as markets, public transportation, and tourist attractions.
Keep your valuables in secure places, such as a money belt or hidden pouch, and avoid placing your wallet or phone in easily accessible pockets.
Be cautious of anyone who approaches you for directions or accidentally bumps into you.
How to Avoid Travel Scams in Major Cities
Now that you’re familiar with the most common city travel scams, here are some practical steps to protect yourself during your travels:
1. Do Your Research
Before heading to any major city, take time to research common scams in the area.
Travel forums, blogs, and social media platforms often have valuable information about what to watch out for.
By staying informed, you’ll be better prepared to recognize and avoid scams.
Pro Tip: Websites like TripAdvisor, Reddit, and Lonely Planet have forums where travelers share their experiences, including scams to watch out for in specific cities.
2. Stay Alert in Crowded Areas
Scammers often target busy tourist spots like train stations, markets, and famous landmarks where people are distracted.
Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious of anyone who approaches you in these areas.
3. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Smartphones can be your best friend when avoiding travel scams.
Use GPS apps to navigate the city and avoid relying on strangers for directions.
Currency converter apps will help you avoid being overcharged in local markets.
Ride-sharing apps can also help you avoid taxi scams.
4. Don’t Flash Cash or Valuables
Displaying wealth can make you an easy target for scammers.
Avoid pulling out large amounts of cash, and keep your valuables hidden.
If you need to carry expensive items, use a money belt or hidden pouch.
5. Be Wary of Unsolicited Help
Scammers often approach tourists offering help, whether it’s to carry your bags, give directions, or suggest a good restaurant.
While some people may be genuinely helpful, it’s best to politely decline unsolicited assistance.
6. Stick to Trusted Areas
It’s easy to get lost when exploring a new city, but staying on well-traveled paths reduces the risk of encountering scammers.
Popular tourist areas often have better security, and you’re less likely to be targeted if you stick to the main roads.
7. Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language
In non-English-speaking cities, scammers often target tourists who seem confused or out of place.
Learning basic phrases like “no, thank you,” “I don’t understand,” or “I’m not interested” can help you politely disengage from potential scammers.
City-Specific Scams to Watch Out For
Certain cities have developed reputations for particular scams.
Here’s a closer look at some city-specific scams and how to avoid them:
1. Rome, Italy: The Gladiator Photo Scam
In Rome, especially near the Colosseum, men dressed as gladiators will offer to take a picture with you.
After the photo is taken, they’ll demand an exorbitant fee, and some may become aggressive if you refuse to pay.
How to Avoid It: Politely decline offers from anyone in costume, and avoid taking photos with costumed characters unless you’re willing to pay.
If you do decide to take a picture, agree on a price before posing.
2. New York, USA: The Times Square CD Scam
In Times Square, individuals claiming to be up-and-coming musicians will hand out “free” CDs or mixtapes.
Once you take the CD, they’ll demand payment, sometimes becoming confrontational if you refuse.
How to Avoid It: Politely decline any offers for “free” CDs or products. Don’t accept anything from someone you don’t know, as this often signals the start of a scam.
3. Bangkok, Thailand: The Temple Is Closed Scam
In Bangkok, scammers near popular temples may tell you that the temple is closed for a special event or holiday.
They’ll then offer to take you to another site, which is usually a high-priced shop or a tourist trap.
How to Avoid It: Verify temple hours before visiting, either online or by asking your hotel.
If someone tells you a temple is closed, simply thank them and move on.
Stick to your planned itinerary and avoid detours suggested by strangers.
4. Paris, France: The Friendship Bracelet Scam
Around popular landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre, scammers will approach you with friendship bracelets, offering to tie one around your wrist.
Once it’s on, they’ll demand payment, refusing to let go until you pay up.
How to Avoid It: Firmly decline anyone offering bracelets, charms, or other trinkets.
If someone insists on giving you a “gift,” walk away quickly and avoid any interaction.
5. Barcelona, Spain: The Fake Ticket Seller
In Barcelona, especially near La Sagrada Família, scammers sell counterfeit tickets for entrance to tourist attractions.
These tickets look legitimate but won’t get you into the site.
How to Avoid It: Always purchase tickets from official sources, such as the attraction’s website or a recognized ticket office.
Avoid buying tickets from street vendors or individuals offering discounted prices.
What to Do If You’re Scammed
Even with the best precautions, it’s still possible to fall victim to a scam.
Here’s what to do if you find yourself in that situation:
1. Stay Calm
Realizing you’ve been scammed can be frustrating, but panicking won’t help.
Stay calm and assess the situation before reacting.
Try to gather as much information as possible about the scammer and the situation.
2. Report the Incident
If you’re scammed, report the incident to the local police as soon as possible.
While they may not be able to recover your money, having an official report can be helpful for insurance claims.
It also helps local authorities track and shut down repeat scams.
3. Contact Your Bank
If the scam involves a credit card, ATM, or online transaction, contact your bank immediately.
Many banks can reverse charges or block further transactions.
They may also issue a replacement card to prevent further fraud.
4. Share Your Experience
Sharing your experience can help warn other travelers about potential scams.
Post your story on travel forums, social media, or review sites to help others avoid falling into the same traps.
Travel Smart, Stay Safe
City travel scams can happen anywhere, but with a little preparation, you can minimize the risk of becoming a victim.
Staying aware, doing your research, and keeping your belongings secure will go a long way toward protecting you from common scams.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
By following the tips outlined in this post, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate major cities safely and confidently, allowing you to focus on enjoying the rich experiences your travels have to offer.