13 Most Outrageous Travel Scams

Ready to travel without the worry of scams lurking around every corner? Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time wanderer, no one is completely immune to travel scams

In fact, even the most experienced adventurers can be caught off guard by crafty swindles. It’s not always about being smart, but being aware! These traps are set worldwide, from the infamous overpriced taxi rides to the subtle snare of credit card information and identity theft too.

You might believe that scams exclusively haunt popular tourist attractions

and hotspots, but sadly, that’s a myth! Crooks are artful and operate everywhere, capitalizing on your holiday excitement and unfamiliarity with the locale. But fear not; I’m here to help you navigate these tricky paths.

As your reliable travel guide, I aim to equip you with valuable knowledge of the most prevalent travel scams in 2023, ranging across various countries.

After all, it’s not about suspecting every encounter atm scam, but knowing what to watch out for. Remember, if a deal feels too good to be true, it probably is!

In this insightful piece, I’ll unveil 13 frequent tourist scams and give practical advice to keep you safe during your travels.

My expert tips will help you relish the joy of exploration while maintaining a keen awareness of your security.

Buckle up as I steer you clear of common tourist traps and set you on a path toward a scam-free, unforgettable journey! All these mentioned are favorites in Rome, Barcelona and other major cities.

Taxi scams are an evolving trick in the book of travel fraudsters. Gone are the days of simple extended routes to rack up the fare. Today, taxi scams have taken on complex forms like inflated rates, ‘broken’ meters, and even drivers operating without a license.

They’ve even started partnering with local businesses to redirect you under false pretenses, leading to unwanted detours. You may have experienced a driver insisting that your intended destination is closed, only to offer an alternative where they receive a commission.

Although most taxi drivers are indeed safe and honest, it’s always best to stay vigilant. By being cautious and aware, you can ensure a scam-free journey.

If you are staying in a hotel ask the front desk to recommend a private service or a reputable taxi company. I recently took a private car from my hotel in that guaranteed me to get there for a cost slightly higher than a taxi.

It is well worth it, even though my travels will try to remain frugal, sometimes paying the extra money is worth it for your peace of mind. Its best to discern carefully where you can go on the cheap and when it makes sense to just pay more.

How to Avoid Taxi Scams

Avoiding taxi scams begins with choosing licensed taxis or those from recognized stations. Harness the power of local insights about standard fares from resources like your hotel staff, tour guides, or fellow travelers. Moreover, Google Maps can be your ally in keeping track of the most direct routes.

It’s always wise to stick to official taxi companies with working meters turned on right at the start of your journey. If available, reputable ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can also be reliable, with upfront fare transparency.

Fake or Staged Distractions

The Staged Distraction, one of the most common travel scams, can be encountered in busy tourist areas of major international cities. Crafty thieves work together in teams, spotting opportunities to distract unsuspecting tourists and make off with their belongings.

This scam, known as the “spill” or “bird poop” clean-up, has stood the test of time, surviving even the challenges posed by COVID.

Here’s how it works: as you stroll down a bustling street, you suddenly feel something spill on your clothes from behind. Just your luck! A seemingly helpful stranger appears, offering tissues to clean up the mess. While you’re preoccupied with the clean-up, their partner swiftly swipes your wallet, phone, passport, or handbag. Anything easy to grab is fair game.

How to Avoid the Staged Distractions?

To avoid falling victim to this scam, politely decline the stranger’s offer and find a safe place to clean up the spill on your own. Additionally, store your passport and other important documents securely to keep them out of reach from thieves.

The Free Bracelet Scam

Beware of the free bracelets scam, commonly found in Europe. A seemingly friendly person will strike up a conversation and then try to place a bracelet on your wrist, a hat on your head, or offer you a sprig of rosemary.

Once it’s on you, they’ll demand money. They’ll create a scene if you refuse, hoping you’ll pay up to avoid embarrassment. They will approach you while at a restaurant and try to put the bracelet right on you and being firm is the only way to get rid of these parasites.

How to Avoid the Bracelet Scam?

To steer clear of this scam, never allow anyone to put anything on your body. Be cautious when accepting anything for free.

If someone tries to put something on you, simply remove it, give it back firmly, and walk away confidently. Rest assured, they won’t chase after you.

The Professional Beggars

Beware common scams of the professional beggars in cities like Delhi and London. Unscrupulous scammers exploit children or individuals with disabilities to manipulate your emotions and coax money out of you on the streets. It’s a devious money-making scheme that preys on compassion.

What makes it even more dangerous is that these scammers work in teams. Once they identify which pocket you keep your money in, their accomplices might strike later using tactics like the Staged Distraction scam.

How to Avoid the Professional Beggars Scam?

To avoid falling victim to this scam, the best approach is to avoid giving money to beggars altogether. In fact, there are several reasons why cash charity on the street can be problematic, aside from the risk of being scammed. Instead, consider supporting honest charities in the city you’re visiting, where you can safely donate your time or money to make a positive impact.

Fake Damages Scam

Beware of the “Fake Damages” scam when renting a motorbike during your travels. This scheme is common, especially in Southeast Asia and other developing regions. Here’s how it works: you rent a motorbike, explore all day, and return it later.

However, the owner insists on extra payment or expensive repairs, claiming there is damage you were unaware of. To make matters worse, they might have held your passport as collateral instead of a deposit, making it more challenging for you to negotiate.

How to Avoid Fake Damage Scam?

To avoid falling victim to this scam:

Take preventive measures.
Before taking the motorbike, photograph it to document any pre-existing damage.
Involve the owner in this process so they know what you’re photographing.
Use your own lock and park the bike discreetly, away from the main streets, to prevent potential tampering or theft attempts orchestrated by the owner to extort money from you.

Moreover, it’s always wise to purchase travel insurance.

\. With insurance coverage, you can claim if any issues arise, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

ATM Skimming

Be cautious of the “ATM Skimming” travel scam, where fraudsters try to steal your card and banking information. One common method is attaching a skimmer device to the ATM’s mouth, discreetly recording your credit or debit card details when you insert your card.

Another trick scammers employ placing a sticky or plastic slip inside the card slot, causing your card to get stuck. Then, a supposed “Good Samaritan” will appear, offering assistance and suggesting you call the phone number displayed on the machine for help. However, beware that this number is often fake.

How to Avoid ATM Skimming?

To avoid falling victim to this scam, use ATMs in reputable banks. When in a foreign country, shake the card reader to ensure it’s legitimate. If the ATM retains your card and refuses to return it, go directly to the bank and inform them of the situation.

If you lose your card, immediately contact your bank to cancel it. Remember, never disclose your personal PIN to anyone, whether in person or over the phone.

By staying vigilant and taking these precautions, you can safeguard yourself from ATM skimming scams during your travels.

The Attractive Local Scam

Beware of the “Attractive Local Scam” targeting young men, especially when traveling solo. This scam typically involves attractive locals, often women, striking up a conversation and inviting you for dinner or drinks.

Initially, everything seems fine, and you’ll have a good time. However, the charm disappears at some point, and you realize that your wallet, money, or other valuables have mysteriously vanished.

In cities like Prague or Barcelona, a common variation of this scam involves being lured to a friendly local, bar by a seemingly friendly fellow traveler.

After consuming a few outrageously overpriced beers, a hefty bouncer demands an outrageous bill, leaving you with a whopping 400 Euros for just six beers. Ouch indeed!

How to Avoid the Attractive Local Scam?

Trust your instincts and maintain a realistic perspective to avoid falling prey to this scam. If everything seems genuine and trustworthy, enjoy meeting new people. However, if something feels off, pay attention to the red flags.

If unsure, suggest meeting for drinks at your hotel or a familiar bar. If the person agrees, great! If not, consider it a lucky escape and savor your drink while counting your blessings.

By staying alert and using your judgment, you can avoid the “Attractive Local Scam” pitfalls and ensure a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.

Fake Police Scams

Beware of the “Fake Police Scam” targeting travelers worldwide, where impostors posing as law enforcement officers try to make a quick buck.

Their typical approach involves requesting your personal ID and issuing a fine for no valid reason. They may ask for immediate payment or even demand a bribe to return your ID.

In some cases, these scammers wear uniforms, while others operate undercover. During a recent trip some fellow travelers were accused by police who came up to them accusing them of not scanning their bus ticket to validate it.

They demanded to see their passport and fined them 40 euros each. Not a real police procedure, so beware of bullying officials who try to scare you into extorting money.

Never surrender your passport to somebody you don’t know for certain is a real official. I dont even carry it and prefer to snap a picture on my phone of the primary information page or just make a copy. If they are for real this should be satisfactory that you are providing the correct identification for just walking to a cafe or sightseeing.

How to Avoid Fake Police Scams?

To avoid falling victim to the Fake Police Scam:

Remember that genuine police officers will not ask you to pay a fine on the spot. If someone claiming to be an officer approaches you, show them your ID but do not hand it over.
Request to see their identification as well.
If they issue you a fine, inform them you prefer to handle the matter at the police station.
Fake scammers will likely retreat once they realize you won’t comply.

By staying alert, verifying their identification, and insisting on police officer following the proper procedures, you can avoid Fake Police Scams and keep your travels stress-free.

The Group Photo Scam

Watch out for the “Group Photo Scam” while visiting popular tourist spots with your partner or friends. When you’re eager to capture a memorable group photo, be cautious when someone unexpectedly offers to take the picture for you. They might snatch your smartphone or camera and disappear in a flash, leaving you without your precious device.

Another variation of this scam involves someone asking you to photograph their group intentionally dropping the phone as they hand it to you. They’ll then accuse you of causing the drop and demand compensation.

How to Avoid the Group Photo Scam?

To avoid falling victim to the Group Photo Scam, exercise caution. If you ask a stranger for a photo, choose someone you’re confident you can outrun.

Alternatively, look for individuals who notice your need for a photo but haven’t offered it yet. Fellow tourists or group tour guides are often reliable options. Trust your instincts and use common sense to distinguish genuine helpers from potential scammers.

By being aware and choosing your photo-taking allies wisely, you can safeguard your belongings and enjoy capturing those cherished travel memories.

Another favorite is to target your children with toys and offer to take a picture with them. They will then demand payment and make a big scene until you give them a payout. They also work as the face painted Mimes who do the same thing……………so cute arent they? Dont go for it!

The Fake Souvenirs Scam

Beware of the “Fake Souvenirs” scam while shopping for local handicrafts and goods during your travels. Many items labeled as authentic and locally crafted may actually be mass-produced in factories elsewhere, exploiting workers and lacking sustainability.

How to Avoid the Fake Souvenirs Scam?

To avoid this scam, research beforehand to understand the traditional craftsmanship and materials used in the local handicrafts.

Look for genuine artisan markets or cooperatives where you can find authentic products directly from local artisans. Ask questions about the origin and production process of the items you’re interested in to ensure their authenticity.

By being an informed shopper and supporting local artisans, you can avoid purchasing fake souvenirs and contribute to ethical and sustainable tourism.

The Fake Ticket Sales Scam

Beware of the “Fake Ticket Sales” scam when approached on the street by someone offering discounted tickets. Whether for football games, concerts, parties, or transportation outside the airport or train station or stations, scalpers and scammers are eager to profit at the expense of unsuspecting tourists.

The trickiest scammers won’t offer unbelievably cheap deals; instead, they’ll present a realistic discount to lure you in. They’ve learned that being only slightly enticing is enough to deceive people. So, if you fall for their seemingly reasonable offer, you’ll realize you’ve been scammed.

How to Avoid Fake Ticket Sale Scams?

Always purchase tickets from official resellers or ticket booths to avoid this scam. This way, you can ensure the validity of the tickets and avoid losing your hard-earned money.

By being cautious and purchasing tickets from trusted sources, you can enjoy your favorite events and activities without the disappointment of fake tickets.

The Counterfeit Currency Scam

Watch out for the “Counterfeit Currency Scam” when dealing with currency exchanges near popular tourist spots. A person may approach you, offering a fantastic exchange rate without a commission.

They might even claim to work for a nearby exchange place, complete with a name tag.

They’ll show you real money and assure you it’s not counterfeit money. However, after you exchange some money, you’ll realize that certain notes in the middle of the stack are fake, and the person will be long gone.

How to Avoid a Counterfeit Currency Scam?

To avoid this scam:

Educate yourself about the currency of the country you visit before you arrive.
Be attentive when making payments and try to provide exact change whenever possible.
If you need to exchange money, opt for small bills and consider doing so at your hotel or a trusted bank.

By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of encountering counterfeit currency and protect your hard-earned money.

Bus Travel Scams

When traveling by bus, it’s crucial to stay vigilant and be aware of potential travel scams that can occur onboard. One common travel scam involves a stranger offering to help you stow your bag above your seat.

At the same time, their accomplice takes advantage of the situation to pick up your pocket or slash your backpack.

Another variation of this scam includes a seemingly helpful Good Samaritan who suddenly takes off with your bag or passes it to a runner near the front of the bus. There have even been instances where travelers wake up to find all their belongings gone.

How to Avoid Bus Travel Scams?

To prevent bus travel scams, be cautious of overly helpful locals and closely monitor your belongings. Never let your bags out of sight, and keep your most valuable possessions as close to you as possible.

Never allow strangers to touch or handle your bags. If you decide to sleep during the journey, wrap your bags around your feet or arms for added security.

By staying alert, protecting your belongings, and using these preventative measures, you can enjoy a safe and scam-free bus travel experience.

Final Words

In conclusion, this article is a valuable resource to help you navigate the most common travel scams and stay safe during your adventures in 2023.

With practical tips and advice, you can become aware of the various safety threats and take effective precautions to protect yourself. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or embarking on your first trip abroad, this guide is a must-read for ensuring a hassle-free and memorable journey.

We’d love to hear from you! Have you ever fallen victim to a travel scam?

? Share your experiences and the steps you take to avoid such situations.

Together, we can learn from one another and make all our money and travel safer. So, stay informed, stay cautious, and enjoy your future travel endeavors with peace of mind!

Hopefully this will help make your trip more secure and enjoyable. My confession is that I got pickpocketed in Rome last week and lost all my credit cards and cash.

How? Got tired, careless and went to a subway station with throngs of people pulling my suitcase and just could not tell somebody was in my zipped cargo shorts pocket! Fortunately, I always carry other means of cash to stave off this eperience. So Be Careful, especaially when your hurried and tired.

Safe travels, fellow adventurers!