is it safe to travel to ASIA

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Asia is an amazing region to explore and overwhelmingly you meet friendly, generous people. 

Tourists are often distracted, caught up and in awe of the destination they are visiting, often not noticing other things or people around them. Here we share common tactics and travel scams that travellers should be aware of, so hopefully you will read the scams and recognise them if approached by a scammer so you can avoid them. You may not encounter any of them or you may encounter some of them, this list helps prepare you should a scammer target you.

Some of the most common travel scams are seen throughout many countries around the world in similar or various forms. Most are fairly harmless besides putting a dent in your wallet and your pride from being scammed! Some scams are more serious and quite dangerous, know how to recognise the signs to help avoid them.

Visit your government’s travel warning website for more information.

The good people of our world far outweigh those scammers, so be aware, stay safe, but most of all ENJOY!

Emergency - 100 and 112 from mobile phones. The specific toll-free Women’s Helpline number in Delhi 1091, Mumbai 103, Kolkata, 1090, Chennai, 1091

Be Cautious in - Beach areas popular for swimming such as, the Eastern Coast in the Bay of Bengal, Goa, Mumbai, Puri (Odisha) where undertow/rips are strong. Crocodiles are in the waters of the Andaman Islands, ask locals advice for safe swimming locations and dangers in the water. International and civil unrest in the regions of Pakistani border, Jammu & Kashmir near the Line of Control with Pakistan, certain locations of Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Laccadives Islands (Lakshadweep), and areas of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur and also other areas including eastern Maharashtra. Check with Indian government representatives for current restricted areas of travel. Civil unrest and incidents occur in some North-eastern states of Check your government’s website for current travel alerts and warnings.

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas.

Pickpockets – Bag straps and underneath handbags/purse have been slashed, secure your backpack/bag under your arm to the side/front of your body. When walking on the streets, try to position the bag/purse on your body where it is difficult to grab if passed by and walk away from the pavements edge.

Dirty Clothes/shoes/bird crap - Something gets on your jacket/shoe, (food, drink, dog poo) which locals may try and ‘help’ you remove/clean and while you are distracted with the fuss getting clean they are picking your pockets and/or walking off with the camera they offered to ‘hold for you’. Some just ask for a very high price for having cleaned your item for you. If something happens say you do not need help and walk off quickly and if they persist yell at them drawing attention to the situation and they will soon leave not wanting any attention drawn to them.

Train – Make sure you lock your sleeping compartment door at all times and do not leave anything of value when leaving the berth for any reason.

Train – Do not leave and bags/daypacks/etc. within reach from the passage in all carriages, compartments, seats and sleepers. Opportunistic thieves will snatch and run with your bags, regardless if there are any valuables in them or not, they think there are.

Taxi Drivers - Taxi Drivers may try and take you to ‘tourist offices’ where you will be pressured into purchasing, accommodation, tours, and tourist buy in shops.

Airport – Make sure you have a name and a description of the person and what they will be wearing when being met for tours etc. at the airport. Some scammers have lured travellers upon arriving or exiting the airport.

Fake doorman - A person stands outside the doors of the hotel pretending to be the doorman, he tells you the hotel is full and suggests another hotel. The other hotel will be more expensive and the 'doorman' will get a big commission if you stay there. Always go to the reception to ask about availability.

ATM – ATM tampering include fake covers that swallow or jamb your card in the machine or scan your card cloning it. your card is swallowed and the bank is open have someone go into the bank and get a bank staff member to report it to, do not leave the ATM. If the bank is closed and it is not possible to retrieve your card call your credit card company/ debit card provider immediately.

ATM skimming - Devices can be attached to legitimate bank ATMs that capture account information by scan/skimming your card If cloning it. They are becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to recognise, try and use ATMs inside banks and shopping centres.

Gems/Gold/Rugs/Carpets – Promises of making a lot of money on-selling, often these items are overpriced, cheap copies, etc. Another method is being asked to pay a ‘deposit’ to transport and deliver Gems/Gold/Rugs/Carpets to help the business avoid custom duties, besides being left holding the baby (goods), it is illegal. This scam is prevalent in Goa, Jaipur, and Agra.

Buying goods – You may purchase an item and hand over the money to pay and the shop keeper will continue with the chit chat thinking you will forget all about the change they owe you. Make sure you are given the change straight away or don’t feel embarrassed to ask for it.

Counterfeit – Fake designer goods and pirated material may be illegal to carry back to your home country and you may be breaking local laws purchasing fake goods.

Express kidnappings - A person is held short-term (sometimes in remote locations) to allow accomplices to empty your bank account with your ATM/cash cards. Release usually comes soon after their objectives have been met (emptying your bank account). You may be taken from the street using an ATM, drugged at a bar, diverted to another place or vehicle when taking a taxi, etc.  and held until your daily limits are exhausted. Money and possessions are replaceable, this is what the scammers are after do not resist, people have been killed.

Wildlife Safaris - Wildlife Safaris are offered however precaution should be taken in choosing an operator as safety standard varies, you do not want compromised safety when facing wild animals, even those that are said to be tame or docile, they are still a wild animal.

Trekking – Use registered guides who are trained and follow safety and meet trekking standards and guidelines and don’t trek ‘special’ routes. Do not trek after dark, it is unsafe and there is greater risk or injury and fatality from falls, etc.

Children - Children should NEVER be given money. This encourages them to beg and follow tourists to collect money rather than go to school. You give to children and you destroy the childs future. If you want to help, seek out a local charity and contribute to the welfare of all the children and community.

Offered Food/Drink - A local will befriend you and at/on the bus or train or station, bar, etc. and after a while will offer you sweets/food/drink/gum (besides the fact it could make you ill because of poor hygiene during preparation etc.) it could contain a drug sedative to knock you out and while you are out to it they will steal your valuables. Most people will be genuine in offering food but it only takes that one time you meet the wrong person. It is hard when most people are being so kind, Use the rubbing and pointing to the belly (stomach) indicating you are not well, this is usually stops the offers and is a polite refusal that doesn’t offend. Cigarettes have also been used to drug people.

Unwanted Advances – Quite often women are targeted by men with sexually suggestive language, cat calls etc. This can sometimes lead to groping and rape in the extreme. You could try asking them if they would say/do that to their mother, sister, or aunty, shaming them. They usually back down.

Pushkar - You may be offered a holy flower to place in the lake. Ask the price before you decide to take a flower, you may pay few Rupee (Rs) up to US$20+.

Romance – Travellers arriving in India having met a special romantic “friend” on the internet, will find themselves met if not by the “friend” but an intermediary with demands for cash for “unforeseen accident/illness or financial situation” requiring the traveller to hand over hundreds if not thousands of dollars. DO NOT GIVE THESE PEOPLE ANY OF YOUR MONEY. THEY ARE SCAMMERS AND PART OF A CRIMINAL NETWORK WHO DO NOT CARE ABOUT YOU ARE ONLY AFTER YOUR MONEY AND ONCE THEY HAVE TAKEN EVERYTHING YOU HAVE THEY WILL LEAVE YOU ALONE, BROKE, WITH NO MONEY. The request for cash may even come prior to arriving in the country, DO NOT SEND/WIRE MONEY. People have lost hundreds, thousands and hundreds of thousands of dollars to these criminal gangs pretending to be something/one they are not. Do not send money to anyone you have not met. You are ‘rich’, they are poor, that’s why they like you, they like your money. Do not be taken in by these heartless scammers. See how long they stay in communication with you when you say you have no money to give them.

Virtual Kidnapping – A traveller journeys to a remote area with no mobile coverage, someone will contact their family telling them their loved one has been kidnapped, in an accident, found with drugs and in jail, or any other dramatic scenario, and ask for money to be sent by Western Union and/or demand a ransom. If you receive such an Email or phone call try to contact the person or their friends and family to find out first hand where they are and what their movements were. When calls are made the unrecognisable voice is explained away as a cold/flu/etc. and the friend/family members are told not to tell other members of the family. Often grandparents are targeted and information is gleaned from social media such a facebook or blogs. Try to substantiate the call by contacting other family members, friends, or the persons travelling partners before agreeing to send any money. If you cannot gain contact, or clearly substantiate the situation contact your government’s foreign affairs department in your country. Often referred to as the ‘Grandparent scam’.

Kidnapping/Extortion – Business travellers and their families have been targeted by criminal gangs. Do not openly discuss your business or your plans with anyone you do not know or have just met, if they appear to be a good business or potential contact ask for their business card and check out their credentials first, then set up a meeting if you are sure. Alter your daily movements, do not become predictable, for example the time you leave your hotel, do not go to the same café, walk the same roads to and from your hotel, etc. In countries with high risk seek professional and latest information and advice.

If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add .

Emergency – 112 (mobiles)    110 Police     113 Fire    118 Ambulance 

Be Cautious in – Bali, Lombok, Jakarta, Surabaya, Jogja, Yogykarta, especially Malioboro Street, Bhayangkara Street and Jogonegaran Street.

Pick-Pockets – You are at  greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas,  public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas. 

Pickpockets – Pickpockets target travellers on crowded public transport, at bars and restaurants. 

Taxi – Unmarked or freelance  taxis are a source of crime. Do not flag down a taxi in the street. If  you are in Jakarta or Surabaya, hire a taxi either at a major hotel or  shopping centre queue, or call a reputable taxi company. 

Taxi – Only use reputable taxi companies and do not  flag taxis in the street, even from reputable companies. Cars have been  painted to look like reputable taxi companies taxis and used to rob  travellers.

Snatch and Run – In cafes and restaurants especially  those outdoors don’t place your phone or wallet on the table or your  bag beside, under or hanging on the side of your chair because of the  risk of  thieves running and past and snatching them. You should place  them on your lap. Turn on your Mobile phone GPS tracker and have an access password.

Bag Carriers – Don’t let anyone touch your bags at  the airport, ferry or bus terminals as they will ask for large sums for  carrying them. If they grab them and demand payment tell them you didn’t  ask for their service and give them NOTHING. If they make a fuss say  you will find the police or airport security. If you give them money  they will keep on grabbing the next tourist’s bag.

Bus Tickets – Buy a ticket on the bus, scammers  write fake ‘tickets’ on shop bought receipt books which are not valid  and they charge many times the fare. The fake bus tickets look like  usual bus tickets with the destination written on them.

Bus Tickets – Ask locals how much the fare should be  and if you purchase the ticket on the on the bus or in the bus station  ticket office. Find the bus and ask those on the bus going to your  destination. Avoid touts and walking around writing out tickets.

Driving – When driving car or motorbike/scooter  expect the official to pull you over even if you did nothing wrong to  issue you with a ‘fine’. They may say if you pay now it will be less  than going to the police station. To try to  avoid any reason for them  to stop you wear a helmet when riding a motorbike, and carry your  International Driver’s Licence/Permit.

Bike Rental – If you rent a bike you may experience  ‘mechanical problems’ which are in no way your fault but owners may  demand money for the repairs regardless.

Bike Rental – If you rent a bike make sure you have  your own lock and key to chain (secure) the bike. Bike owners may  provide you with a lock and key and then follow you and when you leave  your bike they take it and make you pay to replace the ‘stolen’ bike.

Motorcycle taxi thefts – Keep your backpack/purse on  your lap with your arm/s around it with any straps restrained or  someone may reach out and tear it from your arms as you passing by them.

Smash and Grab – The targets of smash and grab  robberies are motorists who are stuck in traffic or stopped at a light.   Keep widows up and valuables out of sight as thieves will smash windows  to access valuables.

Taxi – Use only reputable taxis which wait outside hotels and the  airport. Book a taxi in advance where possible by phone or the stands at  hotels.

Taxi – Some taxis have been made to look like reputable companies so look closely before taking the ride.

Hotels/Accommodation – Do not leave valuables in your unattended room, items may go missing, no matter how fancy it is, or isn’t. 

ATM/ABM – ATM tampering include  fake covers that swallow or jamb your card in the machine or. If your  card is swallowed and the bank is open have someone go into the bank and  get a bank staff member to report it to, do not leave the ATM. If the  bank is closed and it is not possible to retrieve your card call your  credit card company/ debit card provider immediately. 

ATM Skimming – Devices can be attached to legitimate  bank ATMs that capture account information by scan/skimming your card  cloning it. They are becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to  recognise, try and use ATMs inside banks and shopping centres.

ATM – Use ATMs inside the banks where they offer the  best security. Plan ahead so banks will be open when you need to access  your money.

Bali – If your card is swallowed by an ATM and there  is a phone number at the ATM to call, if you call and are asked for  your pin number DO NOT give it to them, this number has been posted  there by a scammer. They will take your pin and your card from the ATM  and take your money. If you are not able to contact bank staff directly,  contact your credit card provider to advise them the card has been  taken by the machine.

Money Exchange – Don’t change money in clothing shops. Ask where you are staying to recommend a money exchange.

Money Exchange – Take your own calculator, do not  use the money exchanger’s calculator as they may be rigged/tampered  with. Calculate yourself how much you should receive before accepting  the transaction.

Money Exchange – Count your money twice. Make sure  you take the money and count it out in front of the cashier even if they  have counted it out to you. They are very good at removing notes with a  slight of hand.

Money Exchange – Don’t change money in a clothing shop, they have been known to cheat tourists.

Visa Cards – Don’t make purchases with your visa  card, take your cash out from an ATM/ABM. Cards are being  scanned/skimmed (details stolen) at a very high rate and unauthorised  charges made to visa cards. If you do have to use your card don’t just  hand it to the waiter/hotel receptionist etc. don’t let it out of your  sight and watch the transaction carefully looking for any  skimming/scanning/photographing of your card. Check your visa card  statements carefully for any unauthorised transactions.

Buying Online – Don’t purchase anything online as there is a very high risk of fraud.

Credit/Debit Card – Credit/Debit Card fraud and  theft is huge, try and pay cash at all times and make sure you look at  your transaction statements often to monitor the use. Report any  unauthorised use or activity on your card immediately to your  bank/institution.

Counterfeit Goods – Fake designer goods and pirated  material may be illegal to carry back to your home country and you may  be breaking local laws purchasing fake goods.

Commissions – Rife in Jogja, anyone can stand on the  street and welcome you into a shop, even though they mostly have no  association with the shop, or try to walk in and assist/introduce you to  the store. Tell them, I do not know you, and to the store owner, do not  give them a commission, I do not know them, they did not bring me to  your store.

Express Kidnappings – A person is held short-term  (sometimes in remote locations) to allow accomplices to empty your bank  account with your ATM/cash cards. Release usually comes soon after their  objectives have been met (emptying your bank account). You may be taken  from the street using an ATM, drugged at a bar, diverted to another  place or vehicle when taking a taxi, etc.  and held until your daily  limits are exhausted. Money and possessions are replaceable, this is  what the scammers are after, do not resist, people have been killed.

Home Brew – Some friendly locals  may offer you a home brew with no ill intent however these may also be  tainted and cause illness. Avoid any alcohol that is not sealed and  check that it has not been tampered with. Arak, a home brew is sometimes  sold commercially illegally and has caused fatalities and has been  linked to cause blindness. 

Hiking – Research companies very carefully because there is great potential for loss of money and time from unscrupulous operators.

Art Centre/Gallery – You are  approached in the street by someone offering to take you to a ‘special,  little-known place’, away from the usual tourist traps. The ‘Art Centre’  is local shop selling overpriced work that is supposed to be of high  quality and painted by ‘Masters’. If someone takes you to a  shop/attraction/anything, you will pay MUCH MORE than others given all  these scammers need to get their cut. 

Sarong – You may be advised that you will require a  sarong to visit a temple and will have to rent one if you do not have  one and are offered ‘help’ to go to the market/shop to buy a sarong to  wear in the temples which will be cheaper than renting all the time.   You are sold a sarong for many more times than it is worth and again  everyone gets a cut. Sarongs are provided FREE in most popular temples.

Pirates – If you are sailing, although incidents  have decreased piracy does exist. Check your government’s website for  update information where most incidents have occurred most recently.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information. 

Emergency –  190 Fire 195 Ambulance Tourist Police in Vientiane 021-251-128

Be Cautious in - Vientiane and Vang Vieng.

Night - Exercise caution, particularly after dark, at roadside restaurants, bars, and stalls.

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets.

Bus – Overnight buses are also targeted by thieves, helping themselves to your valuables while you sleep. Keep valuables on your lap, do not place on the floor or in the storage rack above.

Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. – Valuables are snatched from travellers walking on the street by thieves on Moto taxis/Scooters. Do not resist, people have been killed from falling and being dragged along. Do not wrap your straps around your arm etc. when walking on the streets, try to position the bag/purse on your body where it is difficult to grab it if passed by and walk away from the pavements edge.

Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. – Valuables are snatched from travellers riding on Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. by thieves on Moto taxis/Scooters. Make sure your valuables and bag are held in a secure place unable to be grabbed. Even if your bag/day pack has no valuables, keep it secure, thieves don’t know that there are no valuables and you may be hurt, injured or killed in an attempted robbery if you fall from a moving Scooters/Moto taxis/etc.

Bicycles – Do not place expensive items in the baskets or luggage rack of bicycles they are easily removed by passing thieves and often targeted.

Motorcycle/Scooter Rental – stolen – Whether set up by the rental operators themselves (see below) of genuinely stolen the operators will demand a replacement cost many times the actual cost of the bike/scooter. You may want to get a document stating what the replacement cost would be in case of loss/right off of the scooter/bike. This occurs especially in traveller hubs such as Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane. If you have problems contact the police.

Motorcycle/Scooter Rental – Make sure you take photos of the condition of the bike before you take the scooter out and point out any damage to the owner, this way you are less likely to be accused of damaging the bike on its return. Even if you do take this precaution you may still be scammed and accused of damaging the scooter/bike and asked to pay hundreds for repairs. If you do try and report it to authorities they may do nothing because they could be in on the scam too. Others scams involve stealing, scratching it, or disabling it. Scooter/bike hire is very risky especially in traveller hubs such as Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane.  * Insurance may not cover you in a crash if you don’t have a motorbike licence or are affected by alcohol.

Stolen Scooter/Motorcycle - You may be provided with a lock and chain with two keys to secure your scooter/bike one for you and one for the rental company. It gets stolen. You report it stolen and the rental company says you have to pay big bucks to replace it according to the contract you signed and they hold your passport until you make the payment. Unbeknownst to you the rental company may have followed you and used the other key to steal your bike when you have stopped and left your scooter locked. Take/purchase your own lock and key and only provide a photocopy of your passport.

Motorcycle/Scooter Rental Insurance – Be sceptical purchasing insurance from the company you are hiring from, however if you do, make sure you read the policy and now EXACTLY what you are and are not covered for.

Contact us if you know of an accommodation scam travellers should be aware of.

Counterfeit Goods - Fake designer goods and pirated material may be illegal to carry back to your home country and you may be breaking local laws purchasing fake goods.

Spiked Drinks – Be wary at bars, clubs, restaurants, and parties, do not leave food or drinks unattended, do not ask a stranger to mind your drink, do not accept a drink from a stranger (no matter how friendly they are) and do not accept a drink from a barman/woman or waitress that is not opened in front of you because these are all methods used to spike/taint/drug your drink. You should also look for ‘unopened’ bottles. Travellers are targeted and taken to the streets or hotels etc. where valuables are stolen and can lead to sexual assault and death.

Drugs – Possession and supply of drugs is a serious offense and heavy penalties apply including the death penalty.

Drugs – Some restaurants offer “happy” or “special” menu items such as pizza or shakes, cookies etc. which contain drugs. These “special” menu items constitutes drug possession and can land you in serious trouble with the police in addition the unreliability of content, quantity of these unknown substances could leave you seriously ill, in hospital or dead. The suppliers of these quality and drugs do not care what it is, they care that you buy it to give them money to buy themselves fancy things or more dodgy drugs to make more money. You go to jail, or die, they won’t lose any sleep, guaranteed.

Sexual Assaults – Take all the safety precautions, do not walk alone at night (especially drunk), etc. as sexual assaults on foreigners occur. Assault can occur anywhere but especially in both Vientiane and Vang Vieng.

Offered Food/Drink - A local will befriend you and at/on the bus or train or station, bar, etc. and after a while will offer you sweets/food/drink/gum (besides the fact it could make you ill because of poor hygiene during preparation etc.) it could contain a drug sedative to knock you out and while you are out to it they will steal your valuables. Most people will be genuine in offering food but it only takes that one time you meet the wrong person. It is hard when most people are being so kind, use the rubbing and pointing to the belly (stomach) indicating you are not well, this is usually stops the offers and is a polite refusal that doesn’t offend. Cigarettes have also been used to drug people.

Knife Attacks – Thieves have cut and slashed travellers, the shocked travellers release their grip on possessions/valuables and the thieves take off with them. Walk with belongings protected and be aware of others presence and movements.

Land mines/UXO - There are a large number of unexploded ordinance (UXO) left over from past conflicts in the provinces of Attapeu, Champassak, Houaphan, Khammouane, Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, Saravane, Sekong, Vientiane, and Xieng Khouang.   Also road routes along Route 7 (from Route 13 to the Vietnam border), Route 9 (Savannakhet to the Vietnam border), and Route 20 (Pakse to Saravane). Hundreds are killed each year. Stay on roads, marked tracks and paths and do not take the advice of locals who advise an area is safe, only take direction from authorities. Never pick up metal objects.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information. 

Emergency - 999 or 03-2115-9999 or 03-2262-6555

Be Cautious in - Kuala Lumpur, in Bukit Bintang, Petaling Street (Chinatown), Sri Hartamas, Malacca main square and Bangsar, Mersing. Higher risk in Sandakan and Tawau and particularly at outlying resort islands, Mabul Island, Pom Pom Island, and Semporna. Tabin Wildlife Reserve and Danum Valley.

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas.

Pick-Pockets – Pick pockets come in all forms, little old lady/man, mother with child, children, the well-dressed businessman and everyone in between so just make sure you have all your valuables and documents secured and preferably in a wallet/pouch under your clothes.

Purse Snatching – When walking on the streets, try to position the bag/purse on your body where it is difficult to grab it if passed by and walk away from the pavements edge. Distractions methods such as an argument, a fight, or someone bumping into you may be used to perpetrate the crime.

Taxi – By law Taxis are required to use their meters and not allowed to stop and pick up additional passengers. Driver’s credentials can be verified by sighting their photo license on the back of the seat or dashboard.

Taxis – Single women should book taxis in the downtown shopping area, do not hail a taxi on the street.

Taxi – Taxi drivers found to be doing the wrong thing can be reported to SPAD, 1-800-88-7732 an English language hotline.

Taxi – A useful app “My Teksi” enables you to book a taxi using your smart phone. To help ensure your safety sight the taxis.

Car Drive-by Thefts - Thieves lean out of cars and snatch belongings as the car passes by. Do not resist and let go of your possessions because there is a great risk of injury or killed being dragged along, or dragged under the car. Try and walk on the pavement/sidewalk facing the traffic and away from the curb.

Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. – Valuables are snatched from travellers walking on the street by thieves on moto taxis/Scooters. Do not resist, people have been killed from falling and being dragged along. Do not wrap your straps around your arm etc. when walking on the streets, try to position the bag/purse on your body where it is difficult to grab it if passed by and walk away from the pavements edge.

Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. – Valuables are snatched from travellers riding on Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. by thieves on Moto taxis/Scooters. Make sure your valuables and bag are held in a secure place unable to be grabbed. Even if your bag/day pack has no valuables, keep it secure, thieves don’t know that there are no valuables and you may be hurt, injured or killed in an attempted robbery if you fall from a moving Scooters/Moto taxis/etc.

Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. – Valuables are snatched from travellers walking on the street by thieves on moto taxis/Scooters. Do not resist, people have been killed from falling and being dragged along. Do not wrap your straps around your arm etc. when walking on the streets, try to position the bag/purse on your body where it is difficult to grab it if passed by and walk away from the pavements edge.

Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. – Valuables are snatched from travellers riding on Scooters/Moto taxis/etc. by thieves on Moto taxis/Scooters. Make sure your valuables and bag are held in a secure place unable to be grabbed. Even if your bag/day pack has no valuables, keep it secure, thieves don’t know that there are no valuables and you may be hurt, injured or killed in an attempted robbery if you fall from a moving Scooters/Moto taxis/etc.

Smash and Grab - The targets of smash and grab robberies are motorists who are stuck in traffic or stopped at a light. Keep widows up and valuables out of sight as thieves will smash windows to access valuables.

Bus to Tioman and Islands – Minibus – The bus from Singapore tries to drops people going to Tioman (and island) off at a travel agent on the edge of the town in Mersing. Stay on the bus, this bus will take you to the port. The travel agent will only try to sell you expensive hotels and minibus to the port that will arrive late so they can herd you into an overpriced cafe to wait for the next ferry.

Contact us if you know of an accommodation scam travellers should be aware of.

Credit Cards – Keep your credit card in view for all transactions. Do not allow retails to make transactions out of site as the may use mobile sim cards to transmit the cards details to criminal gangs. Try to pay cash for all purchases.

Credit Cards – Crime gangs can monitor and tap retail outlets card data transactions/transmissions at the time of sale without the knowledge of Retailer or shopper. Check statements often and report any unauthorised transactions immediately. Try to pay cash for all purchases.

ATM skimming - Devices can be attached to legitimate bank ATMs that capture account information by scan/skimming your card cloning it. They are becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to recognise, try and use ATMs inside banks and shopping centres.

ATM – Scanners are being mounted beside doors to make you believe you have to scan your card to enter. Such devices will scan your cards details enabling thieves’ access to your account.

Counterfeit Goods - Fake designer goods and pirated material may be illegal to carry back to your home country and you may be breaking local laws purchasing fake goods.

Exchange – Try and to have a small amount of local currency before you arrive at small border crossings to avoid the local exchangers that who usually give really bad rates and the additional risk of armed bandits who target those who have exchanged large sums of money.

Hiking – Research companies very carefully because there is great potential for loss of money and time from unscrupulous operators.

Fake police – ‘Plain clothed police’ ask to check your documents or cash, they will either steel your passport, or tell you that your money is counterfeit and take it from your for ‘evidence’. If someone does stop you, just walk away. If they persist ask for ID, and if they do show ID to you (ID could also be fake) and tell them to have a uniformed officer attend. They should back off, if not, just walk away.

Knife Attacks – Thieves have cut and slashed travellers, the shocked travellers release their grip on possessions/valuables and the thieves take off with them. Walk with belongings protected and be aware of others presence and movements.

Virtual Kidnapping – A traveller journeys to a remote area with no mobile coverage, someone will contact their family telling them their loved one has been kidnapped, in an accident, found with drugs and in jail, or any other dramatic scenario, and ask for money to be sent by Western Union and/or demand a ransom. If you receive such an Email or phone call try to contact the person or their friends and family to find out first hand where they are and what their movements were. When calls are made the unrecognisable voice is explained away as a cold/flu/etc. and the friend/family members are told not to tell other members of the family. Often grandparents are targeted and information is gleaned from social media such a facebook or blogs. Try to substantiate the call by contacting other family members, friends, or the persons travelling partners before agreeing to send any money. If you cannot gain contact, or clearly substantiate the situation contact your government’s foreign affairs department in your country. Often referred to as the ‘Grandparent scam’.

Kidnappings – Localised regions in Malaysa are subject to the threat of Kidnappings have occurred in the regional coastal of Sabah especially Kudat to Tawau, resorts along the Kinabatangan River and tourist attractions of Tabin Wildlife Reserve and Danum Valley. Travellers should be aware of the current situation prior to travelling to the region. Curfews are often imposed in this region. Mabul Island, Pom Pom Island, and Semporna have been targeted in the past. Refer to your government’s travel warning website for current information.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information. 

Emergency - 117

Be Cautious in - Manila, Makati central business district, provincial resort towns. There are some areas that are quite volatile, make sure you check your governments travel site for the no-go zones.

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas.

General - Reports of confidence games (con games), pick pocketing, Internet scams, and credit/ATM card fraud are common.

Taxi – Make sure the driver starts the meter, if they refuse, take another cab. Take note of the number/license plate number, or drivers taxi permit, sms it, or take a photo of it (to a cloud/friend) prior to getting in.

Taxi - Do not allow the taxi driver to pick up any other passenger. Taxis may ask to pick up a ‘passenger’, their accomplice on route and rob you or worse.

Airport – Taxis and private vehicles have been targeted by thieves leaving Manila international airport. The taxi/vehicle you are travelling in is rear-ended by a car behind and when the parties get out to resolve the incident they are robbed.

Public Transport - Avoid all forms of public transportation, such as the light rail system, buses, and “jeepneys” (local colourfully decorated bus), use only reputable taxi services to get around.

Local Hospitality - Solo travellers are approached by a friendly local on Roxas Boulevard, downtown Manila, they strike up a conversation, become very friendly, and invited to a tourist destination that happens to be quite near their home/family. Often located outside Manila, the traveller is given spiked food/drink with their meal that knocks them unconscious.  Their valuables are stolen, including their ATM cards, which are then used to empty their bank accounts.

Credit Cards – Whenever you use your credit card for payment make sure you keep it in sight at all times. Do not allow them to take it to another room or process it under the desk, watch them if they have to so you can clearly see the machine (going behind the counter if need be). Try and pay cash.

ATM – ATM tampering include fake covers that swallow or jamb your card in the machine or. If your card is swallowed and the bank is open have someone go into the bank and get a bank staff member to report it to, do not leave the ATM. If the bank is closed and it is not possible to retrieve your card call your credit card company/ debit card provider immediately.

ATM skimming - Devices can be attached to legitimate bank ATMs that capture account information by scan/skimming your card cloning it. They are becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to recognise, try and use ATMs inside banks and shopping centres.

Contact us if you know of an entertainment scam travellers should be aware of.

Contact us if you know of a social scam travellers should be aware of.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information. 

Emergency - 119

Be Cautious in - Negombo, Tangalle.

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas.

Pick-pockets – Pick pockets come in all forms, little old lady/man, mother with child, children, the well-dressed businessman and everyone in between so just make sure you have all your valuables and documents secured and preferably in a wallet/pouch under your clothes.

Mobile Phone - Mobile phones/handy/cells have been snatched when in use on the street especially in tourist areas.

Contact us if you know of a transport scam travellers should be aware of.

Passport – The Sri Lankan government requires all foreign tourists provide their passport information when registering at local hotels, guest houses, etc. Do not allow them to keep your passport, give them a copy.

Credit Cards – Keep your credit card in view for all transactions. Do not allow retails to make transactions out of site as the may use mobile sim cards to transmit the cards details to criminal gangs. Try to pay cash for all purchases.

ATM – ATM tampering include fake covers that swallow or jamb your card in the machine or. If your card is swallowed and the bank is open have someone go into the bank and get a bank staff member to report it to, do not leave the ATM. If the bank is closed and it is not possible to retrieve your card call your credit card company/ debit card provider immediately.

ATM skimming - Devices can be attached to legitimate bank ATMs that capture account information by scan/skimming your card cloning it. They are becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to recognise, try and use ATMs inside banks and shopping centres.

Purchases – Pay cash to avoid credit/debit card fraud.

Credit card – Always check the amount charged before you okay the transaction. Make sure you know what currency it is in.

Counterfeit Goods – Fake designer goods and pirated material may be illegal to carry back to your home country and you may be breaking local laws purchasing fake goods.

Sightseeing - Approached by a friendly local they gain your trust then load you into a tuktuk to visit some temple/“elephant festival”/handicraft shop or other attraction. Having driven you around for a while, you will be dumped in some remote and seedy part of town at which point the tuktuk driver will demand a wildly inflated fare for the ride.

Milk Powder Scam – Some just ask outright for you to buy them powdered milk, others change tact, talking and telling you about the area and then ask you to buy the powdered milk. They take you to a store to pay many times the value of the goods and once you have gone they return the goods to the store to split the profits with the store owner.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information. 

Emergency - Tourist Police 1155

Be Cautious in - Poipet,

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas.

Khao San Road – It appears police have a new past time in fining tourists for infringements that locals seem to get away with. These include, drinking alcohol on Buddhist holidays and elections, smoking where restricted, and not wearing a helmet when riding a scooter/motorbike.

Note: It is not a scam, however it is a serious offense for anyone to criticise, make defamatory comments, or insult the King, or the royal family in any way, and harsh penalties of jail terms apply. This applies to comments/actions taken inside of outside of Thailand that authorities become aware of and include, comments on the online, such as in blogs, websites, etc., damaging or destroying images of the King (including bank notes/bills), heard saying/doing the wrong thing, spitting on, defacing images of the king or royal insignia, etc.

Airport Taxis/Vans – Use official airport taxi stands and registered/pre-paid taxi companies. Taxi/Van drivers will offer cheap fares to your destination but instead of taking you direct, they will stop at a travel agent and they will try to tell you your hotel is full, burnt down or any other story to convince you to choose another more expensive accommodation option, tour, or whatever they are trying to sell you. If your taxi/van stops short of your agreed destination simply stay in the taxi/van and insist they take you. If they’re not going to make money from you from any commissions on sales from you then they are wasting their time and they will take you and look for other targets. If the driver says they will not take you, begin taking your bags and tell them you will take another taxi. They should take you, if not take you bags and get another taxi, do not pay them any money, tell them they did not take you to your destination.

Bus – Overnight buses are also targeted by thieves, helping themselves to your valuables while you sleep. Keep valuables on your lap, do not place on the floor or in the storage rack above.

Bus – Lock your bag or use a backpack cover that restricts access to your pack. Bags stored in the luggage holds are often targeted by thieves and even the smallest of items are stolen. Keep all your valuables in your day pack/purse/handbag with you on your lap in the bus.

Tuk- Tuk – Ask locals what the fare should be for your intended destination. If you are given a hugely inflated price from the tuk-tuk driver keep asking until you get an honest driver, or get a taxi, the bus or walk if it’s not too far. Taxis are good value when the fare is by the meter.

Tuk- Tuk – Tuk- Tuk drivers will often try to use the old ‘value add/upsell’ to the service trying to get you to bars, shops, sex shows, etc. where they will make a commission for delivering you there.

Registered Taxi/Vans - Some corner operations are operated by criminal gangs and their services are questionable, use reputable and government services.

Canal Boat Tours – Keep a tight hold of your belongings and do not be distracted by anyone waving things to buy in front you, this distraction is enough for the pickpockets to gather your belongings.

Scooter – Make sure you take photos of the condition of the bike before you take the scooter out and point out any damage to the owner, this way you are less likely to be accused of damaging the bike on its return. Even if you do take this precaution you may still be scammed and accused of damaging the scooter/bike and asked to pay hundreds for repairs. If you do try and report it to authorities they may do nothing because they could be in on the scam too. Others scams involve stealing, scratching it, or disabling it. Scooter/bike hire is very risky.  * Insurance may not cover you in a crash if you don’t have a motorbike licence or are affected by alcohol.

Stolen Scooter - You may be provided with a lock and two keys to secure your scooter/bike one for you and one for the rental company. It gets stolen. You report it stolen and the rental company says you have to pay big bucks to replace it according to the contract you signed and they hold your passport until you make the payment. Unbeknownst to you the rental company may have followed you and used the other key to steal your bike when you have stopped and left your scooter locked. Take/purchase your own lock and key and only provide a photocopy of your passport.

Borders – You may be offered help to make and process documentation/payment and taxis may try to charge you to go few hundred metres. Ask information from locals or just follow what the locals are doing.

Guesthouses and Resorts – Often Guesthouses and Resorts run tabs for food and drink and often items are added inflating your bill. Ask to pay as you go of if you have a tab insist that you initial every item that is added to it. If they say it’s not possible tell them you will go to eat and drink at the local bars and restaurants, they will usually find a way.

Accommodation – Some providers may try and make you pay twice, on arrival and then as you depart. If you arrive tired you may not remember given sometimes you may pay on arrival, and sometimes on departure, so ask for proof of payment when you pay for your room. If they do not have a receipt book but have a book for reservations, ask them to write ‘paid’ in INK, on your room or name (if in a dorm).

ATM – ATM tampering include fake covers that swallow or jamb your card in the machine or. If your card is swallowed and the bank is open have someone go into the bank and get a bank staff member to report it to, do not leave the ATM. If the bank is closed and it is not possible to retrieve your card call your credit card company/ debit card provider immediately.

ATM skimming - Devices can be attached to legitimate bank ATMs that capture account information by scan/skimming your card cloning it. They are becoming more sophisticated and more difficult to recognise, try and use ATMs inside banks and shopping centres.

Gems/Gold/Rugs/Carpets – Promises of making a lot of money on-selling, often these items are overpriced, cheap copies, etc. Another method is being asked to pay a ‘deposit’ to transport and deliver Gems/Gold/Rugs/Carpets to help the business avoid custom duties, besides being left holding the baby (goods), it is illegal.

Change – Take note of the money you hand over for payment when changing at money exchange booths, stores and ‘conveniences’ (like 7-11/mini-marts) will try to distract you when you hand over your money and then question the amount you gave. If you are sure and they tell you different, tell them that if they weren’t talking (whatever they did to distract) and was doing their job properly they would know what you gave them, it is there mistake not yours.

Borders – On the border money exchangers may try to tell you that there are no ATMs in the neighbouring country (may be true for Burma/Myanmar check current status) and exchange your money at very poor rates.

Duty Free - Some duty free airport staff and police were exposed setting up travellers by staff adding additional items in shopping bags or not charging for all items and then call police to charge them with shop lifting when leaving the store. Check your items with the receipt and make sure all items are accounted for.

Bar Tabs - Often Bars run tabs and often items are added inflating your bill. Ask to pay as you go of if you have a tab insist that you initial every item that is added to it. If they say it’s not possible tell them you will go to another bar, they will usually find a way.

Drinks – When at bars etc. make sure you pay for your drinks as you go, do not run a tab. The number and/or the cost for each drink may be inflated and you may face a very expensive bill, hundreds if not thousands of dollars. Refusal to pay the bill could turn violent.

Spiked Drinks/Food – Be wary at bars, clubs, restaurants, and parties. Male travellers engaging with local woman often find instead of a romantic night, they end up drugged with all their valuables stolen.

Night life – Street touts will hand you laminated menus offering sex shows and cheap beer. The beer may be cheap, but they'll will charge you a small fortune for the show.

Drugs – Police have a nice little money earner going where they will have ‘a dealer’ approach you on the street or in bars with drugs, if you engage, the police appear, and allow you to give them money (pay them off) to keep you out of jail. Heavy penalties apply including the death penalty, refrain from all drugs and drug transactions.

Holiday Romance – You are befriended by a local girl and you think this is the start of a special relationship. This is a job for these girls. It is there job to make you feel special, take you to bed, hopefully not pass on a communicable disease then pack you off home where upon you send them money. This same ‘special friend’ will have many other ‘special friends’ sending them money so they can play you, and she and her entire family live high at your expense. You should save your money, take your urges to the local brothel in your hometown where you are less likely to catch a communicable disease and in the long run save a truck load of money not having to send it overseas in ever increasing amounts because what starts off as a few bucks, ends up huge sums to pay for whatever ‘drama’ that happens to be going on that week. Also other travellers will not have to witness sleazy, slimy, old codgers getting off with children/young girls.

Ladyboys – Ladyboys may start to joke and have fun with you and pose for photos, they then promptly ask for payment for this.

Diving – Only pay for dive courses on arrival to your destination, do not pay for a course in advance even if told there is limited space, there will be other options if it does happen to be full. Travellers have been sold an open water package on Ko Tao from Ko Phi Phi which includes transfers from Ko Phi Phi to the island, once you arrive at the Surat Thani and/or Chumphon travel agent, you are advised that your ferry is full for and you will need to catch the boat the next day. This means, a new boat ticket, accommodation for the night, and you miss a day’s diving.

Children - Children should NEVER be given money. This encourages them to beg and follow tourists to collect money rather than go to school. You give to children and you destroy the childs future. If you want to help, seek out a local charity and contribute to the welfare of all the children and community.

Free Hair Salon Treatment – You may be offered ‘free’ coupons for a salon treatment, such as head massage, hair wash, etc. Once they have you in the Salon to collect your ‘free’ treatment they will pressure you into paying for other services, or to purchase over-priced products. They rely on befriending you and making it harder for you to refuse any offers of additional services or products.

Thai Schools – Many people travelling to Thailand have been duped into signing up for schools which appear to be legitimate, well run establishments, yet fall short on delivering these services. Websites may look professional, and you may speak and correspond with personnel, but this can turn out to be a front. Research online, check reviews and travel forums for any information of personal accounts about the course and the company you want to sign up to. These can be language schools, martial arts, yoga or massage and can include spiritual retreats. Paying by visa card may help you recover any moneys paid in need be.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information. 

Emergency - 113 for police, 114 for fire, and 115 for ambulance

Be Cautious in - Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh City’s Ben Thanh Market.

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas.

Pick-Pockets – Pick pockets come in all forms, little old lady/man, mother with child, children, the well-dressed businessman and everyone in between so just make sure you have all your valuables and documents secured and preferably in a wallet/pouch under your clothes.

Motorcycle/Scooter Rental – stolen – Whether set up by the rental operators themselves (see below) of genuinely stolen the operators will demand a replacement cost many times the actual cost of the bike/scooter. You may want to get a document stating what the replacement cost would be in case of loss/right off of the scooter/bike. This occurs especially in traveller hubs such as Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane. If you have problems contact the police.

Stolen Scooter/Motorcycle - You may be provided with a lock and chain with two keys to secure your scooter/bike one for you and one for the rental company. It gets stolen. You report it stolen and the rental company says you have to pay big bucks to replace it according to the contract you signed and they hold your passport until you make the payment. Unbeknownst to you the rental company may have followed you and used the other key to steal your bike when you have stopped and left your scooter locked. Take/purchase your own lock and key and only provide a photocopy of your passport.

Motorcycle/Scooter Rental – Make sure you take photos of the condition of the bike before you take the scooter out and point out any damage to the owner, this way you are less likely to be accused of damaging the bike on its return. Even if you do take this precaution you may still be scammed and accused of damaging the scooter/bike and asked to pay hundreds for repairs. If you do try and report it to authorities they may do nothing because they could be in on the scam too. Others scams involve stealing, scratching it, or disabling it. Scooter/bike hire is very risky especially in traveller hubs such as Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and Vientiane.  * Insurance may not cover you in a crash if you don’t have a motorbike licence or are affected by alcohol.

Note: You are required to possess a Vietnamese motorbike driving permit, failure to have one can result in heavy fines and impounding the rental which you will be liable to pay the rent for. You may not be covered by your insurance in case of an accident if you do not hold one. Check the terms of your policy.

Taxi – Only use marked, registered, taxis in Hanoi. Bogus drivers lure travellers into their ‘cab’ driving them to the outskirts of town until they are given the passengers money and valuables.

Airport – Coupons are used to take Taxis from the airport to eliminate inflated prices, some drivers try to demand more money at the end of the journey. There will be a record from the voucher if you want to report this practice. Asking politely for a tip is different from demanding more money, don’t report those hoping for a tip for good service.

Taxi meters – Ask the drivers to use the meters and watch that it hasn’t been tampered with. You should ask locals what the approximate fare should be and if it is much higher, advise the driver and take down details to report to local authorities.

Taxi – Ask the driver to turn on the meter before you get in, if not go to the next cab.

Airport – If being met at the airport (or other) by a representative, make sure you have the details of that person; name, phone number and number/license plate number. Imposters gain details of those arriving and may mislead, assault or rob unsuspecting travellers.

Airport Taxi/Pickup – Use only registered Taxis or hotel transfers, unauthorised vehicles have taken to passengers to other hotels, shops rather than to the desired destination.

Bicycle-Taxis – Known locally as "cyclos" or “pedicabs”, to avoid any misunderstanding about price (any exorbitant fare) you should negotiate a price before your get in and confirm if the price is total or per person.

Cyclo – Do not travel in/to isolated streets, cyclo drivers have forcibly/kidnapped passengers to extorted money. Try to use reputable cyclos associated with restaurants and hotels.

Motocycle Taxi – Known locally as "xe oms", snatch from street bags etc. in addition they are unsafe, helmets if provided are not adequate in case of accident and because they are unregulated assaults may occur.

Train – Train tickets do not show the class/type of tickets, only buy from known, trusted as some ‘helpful’ people and agents buy tickets for you and when you board you find they have bought a different ticket and charged you the price of a better ticket class/type and kept the difference. When buying train tickets become familiar with the booking system to avoid this one.

Hotel – Taxi drivers, touts, etc. will try to tell you your hotel is full, burnt down or any other story to convince you to choose another more expensive accommodation option so they can take you to another and make a commission from you.

Hotel – If your room what provides a refrigerator with mini bar, make sure you ask the staff to account for is in there, people have been charged for missing items by previous occupants.

Hotel/Hostel – Hotel/Hostel may ask travellers to provide their passport when registering at local hotels, guest houses, etc. Do not allow them to keep your passport, give them a copy.

Touts – Arriving on the bus you will be surrounded by touts trying to take you to accommodation so they can make commission from you. Some are quite aggressive while others may be owners trying to catch some customers.

Hotel – Some hotels try to charge double on checkout claiming the rate quoted was per person not per room. Make sure you confirm the rate per room, try to get it in writing if you can.

Prices – The price of goods are usually not marked and goods bought one day can be priced differently the next, even from the same shopkeeper.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods – Including cigarettes, fake designer goods and pirated material may be illegal to carry back to your home country and you may be breaking local laws purchasing fake goods.

Restaurant – Taxi drivers, touts, etc. will try to tell you the restaurant you are looking for is closed, burnt down or any other story to convince you to choose another more expensive accommodation option so they can take you to another and make a commission from you.

Gambling – Befriended, taken to home, asked to join in on a card game where stakes start out using small change, these escalate and hundred and also thousands of dollars are lost by travellers because these games will have been rigged, travellers are then forced to pay up, forced to ATMs to withdraw funds. Do NOT engage in any card games, these are also illegal outside of licenced casinos. Common in the Pham Ngu Lao neighbourhood of Ho Chi Minh City.

Spiked drinks – Be wary at bars, clubs, restaurants, and parties, do not leave food or drinks unattended, do not ask a stranger to mind your drink, do not accept a drink from a stranger (no matter how friendly they are) and do not accept a drink from a barman/woman or waitress that is not opened in front of you because these are all methods used to spike/taint/drug your drink. You should also look for ‘unopened’ bottles. Travellers are targeted and taken to the streets or hotels etc. where valuables are stolen and can lead to sexual assault and death.

Drugs – Drugs can be of unknown content and strength, a much greater risk than at home. Dealers/sellers use any substance (cleaner, poison, whatever) to bulk up the drug to get more money. Harsh penalties apply for possession, up to the death penalty, it can happen to you!

Alcohol – Do not buy alcohol from street vendors, there is a risk that these bottles have been tainted, even if the bottle seem intact.

Contact us if you know of a social scam travellers should be aware of.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information. .

Emergency - 155 and Ambulance 112

Be Cautious in - Taksim Square, Sultanahmet, and in the areas around the Grand Bazaar and Spice (Egyptian) Bazaar.

Pick-Pockets - You are at greater risk of pick-pocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas, public transport, cafes, markets and in resort areas.

Pick-pockets – Pick pockets come in all forms, little old lady/man, mother with child, children, the well-dressed businessman and everyone in between so just make sure you have all your valuables and documents secured and preferably in a wallet/pouch under your clothes.

Purse snatching – Distractions methods such as an argument, a fight, or someone bumping into you may be used to perpetrate the crime.

Contact us if you know of a transport scam travellers should be aware of.

Contact us if you know of an accommodation scam travellers should be aware of.

Counterfeit Goods - Fake designer goods and pirated material may be illegal to carry back to your home country and you may be breaking local laws purchasing fake goods.

Bar – meet a local, takes to a bar he knows, has ‘female friends’ join them dining eating then handed hefty bill, intimidated, forced to ATM.

Menus – Ask to see the menu for food and drink pricing, unsuspecting travellers have been handed exorbitant bills after dining.

Turkish Bathes – Female travellers who have attended “mixed” Turkish baths have been drugged, ask for a female attendant to help avoid this situation.

 If you have current information with regard to a scam or any content on this site please contact us to review and revise or add information.