Scams and Crime
It is easy to become a victim if you don’t know what scams to
avoid.
Some people work in professions devoted to
helping people, while some work with the sole purpose of taking advantage of
others. It may be hard to believe someone would devote time and resources to
con and rob tourists, however due to the influx of global tourism, it is
becoming more and more common for criminals to exploit unprepared travelers.
These criminals are professionals, working full time in the booming travel scam
industry. Although there are countless travel scams, I will focus on the top
five.
Distraction Crime: The favorite tool for a criminal is
distraction, often used with more than one criminal. If they can distract you
and get your wallet, passport, camera or luggage, they can make some easy
money. One commonly used scam is “something on your shirt” a bird poop or food,
then a nice person appears to help you. They are nice and friendly. Meanwhile their
accomplice is robbing you of your valuables. Most often you will not be aware
that you have been robbed until you reach for your wallet for your next
purchase. How to Avoid This Scam: Understand if something is on your clothing
and someone is trying to help, you have been targeted. They will be coming in
for their payday. Don’t allow the person to help. Make sure you keep possession
of your backpack and luggage. Always keep your money and passport in a money belt
under your clothes.
Wrong change back: When paying you will have to be on top of
calculating your purchase. Shop keepers, street venders and restaurant
employees have been known to give less change back. This is easy money. Their
perception, especially of Americans, is that you must be so rich you don’t need
to count your money, so you will not be paying attention to the amount
returned.
How to Avoid This Scam: Before traveling learn about the currency
and the exchange rates in the country you will be visiting and always count
your change. When paying always say in a loud voice the denomination of money
as you give it out. Sometimes the vendor will claim you didn’t give them
the right amount of money or return the wrong difference.
Can you take my picture? Criminal organizations usually operate with
multiple members and target tourists with luggage that is in demand. They will
stop you and ask if you can take their picture and once you set down your
luggage their accomplice will be moving in to take your belongings. It will
only be after the pictures have been taken that you will realize your luggage
has gone missing.
How to Avoid This Scam: If someone asks you to take a picture and
you have luggage say no. Don’t feel bad, they can ask someone else to be their
victim.
Free bracelet: A friendly person will engage you in conversation and
generously offer to give you a free friendship bracelet. They will place the
bracelet on your wrist and tie a knot, which can’t be undone Once it is on your
wrist they will demand money. If you refuse, they will cause a scene.
How to Avoid This Scam: There is no such thing as a free gift,
especially when it involves a tourist. Do not accept any gifts from strangers
and don”t let anyone tie anything to your wrist or place anything on your body.
You will find this scam in areas most commonly frequented by tourists.
Beggar Gangs: Organized criminals will use children, blind, deaf and
pregnant women to collect money. Most often the money collected is taken by the
criminals and the beggar is payed a small fee.
How to Avoid This Scam: Don’t give money to strangers. It is
impossible to distinguish between those truly in need and criminal gangs
operating as beggars.
Understanding local scams and crime trends
before traveling can help tourists from being victimized. The more you know,
the less likely you will fall victim to a scam. Criminals are always on the
hunt for an easy target. Stay safe, stay alert and you will have a much more
enjoyable travel experience.
To learn more on how to travel safe
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