
Traveling is an amazing adventure, but it’s smart to be aware that not everyone has good intentions. Unfortunately, some scammers target unsuspecting tourists. Knowing the common tricks can help you stay safe and avoid getting caught up in fraud. Here are some of the most common travel scams and tips on how to steer clear of them.
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1. Taxi Overcharging

One common gripe travelers have is dealing with taxi drivers who don’t want to use the meter, take the long route, or charge way too much—especially around airports and tourist spots.
How to avoid this:
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Do a little research beforehand to know the usual taxi fares.
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Stick to licensed taxis or ride-share apps like Uber or Lyft.
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Make sure to tell your driver upfront that you want to pay by the meter or agree on a fare before the ride starts.
This way, you can avoid surprises and enjoy your trip stress-free!
2. Fake Hotel Calls

This sneaky scam involves someone pretending to be hotel front desk staff, calling you to say there’s a problem with your credit card—and then asking for your details over the phone.
What NOT to do:
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Never give out your credit card info over the phone.
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Don’t rush to the front desk without verifying the call first.
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Always report any suspicious calls to hotel management.
3. Pickpocketing Distractions

Ever heard of the classic distraction trick? One thief might spill something on you or create a scene, while another sneaks in and swipes your stuff right out of your hands.
How to stay safe:
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Use a money belt or an anti-theft backpack to keep your valuables close.
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Stay aware of what’s going on around you—especially in busy spots.
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Avoid keeping your wallet or phone in easy-to-reach pockets.
A little extra caution can save you a lot of hassle!
4. Fake Police Officers

Watch out for impersonators pretending to be police officers—they might come up to you saying there’s an issue with your documents and then ask to see your passport or wallet… only to steal from you.
Here’s how to stay safe:
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Never hand over your belongings unless you see official ID.
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If you’re unsure, ask to go to the police station together.
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Only give your stuff to verified authorities you trust.
Better safe than sorry!
5. Closed Attraction Scam

Near popular attractions, some scammers might tell you that a site is closed and push you for an alternative tour that’s either way overpriced or maybe even fake.
How to dodge this:
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Check official websites for opening hours before you go.
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Ignore random folks offering tours out of the blue.
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Stick to official tour agencies you can trust.
That way, you get the real deal without any hassle!
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6. Free Bracelet or Rose Scam

Ever had someone come up and offer you a “free” bracelet or flower out of nowhere? If you say no, they might suddenly get pushy and demand money. That’s the classic “stolen-clown” scam.
How to avoid it:
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Just don’t accept gifts from strangers.
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Politely say no and walk away.
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And don’t let anyone get too close—you don’t want something sneaky slipped into your pocket.
Keep your cool and stay safe out there!
7. ATM Skimming

Watch out for sneaky scammers who put devices on ATMs to steal your card info when you’re withdrawing cash.
How to stay safe:
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Use ATMs inside banks or busy spots instead of isolated ones.
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Give the card slot a quick check—if something looks off, don’t use it.
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Always cover your PIN with your hand when you type it in.
8. Rental Scams

Sometimes, people rent scooters, bikes, or cars and then get hit with charges for damage they didn’t cause. It’s frustrating but sadly happens.
Here’s how to avoid getting caught up in that:
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Always rent from reputable companies you can trust.
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Before you take off, snap some photos and videos of the vehicle—capture every angle.
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And definitely read the rental agreement carefully before you sign anything.
9. Wi-Fi Scams

Hackers love to sneak in and steal personal info when you’re using free public Wi-Fi. It’s a real risk, especially when you’re traveling.
To keep your data safe:
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Use public Wi-Fi only for things that don’t need sensitive info.
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Avoid connecting to unsecured networks whenever you can.
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If you can, use a VPN—it’s like a security shield for your internet.
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Stick to known, reputable Wi-Fi spots.
Related Topics: Learn How VPN works
10. Fake Ticket Sellers

Watch out for ticket scams! Con artists often try to sell fake concert, museum, or transportation tickets. The best rule? Always buy tickets directly from the official source. No matter where you’re buying, double-check the details before handing over your money.
Also, be cautious of folks at markets or on the street offering super cheap tickets — that’s a classic scam. Scammers are always coming up with new tricks, but the more you know, the better you can protect yourself. And trust your gut — if something feels off, it probably is!