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KEY POINTS

Protect Your Wealth
A proactive and diligent approach to travel can save you thousands while traveling.
Peace of Mind
Learn how to avoid scams and enjoy a stress-free trip.

We are under constant threat from scammers trying to part us from our hard-earned cash. Unfortunately, our risk typically increases while we are travelling.

Let’s look at some of the most common scams and how you can protect yourself and your travel companions.

① Taxi Scams

You can fall victim to this scam virtually anywhere you can hail a taxi. Drivers may rig their meters, overcharge you, or intentionally take you on longer routes to increase the fares.

We recommend you research your destination prior to departure and determine which tax companies are reputable. Stick to these companies to reduce your risk and your stress. You may also consider ride sharing companies like Uber and Lyft.

Once on the ground, you can take practical steps like agreeing to fares in advance, and using your GPS to track the route to your destination and ensure it makes sense.

② Fake Tickets & Tours

Popular tourist destinations are prone to counterfeit tickets and tours offered by unauthorized vendors. Be sure to only purchase tickets and tours from authorized vendors or reputable websites.

Take all practical steps to ensure the authenticity of your tickets prior to finalizing payment.

This may include reading third party reviews posted on multiple websites to ensure the selling agent is legitimate or checking the vendor’s official accreditation via the governing body or association in the industry.

③ Pickpocketing and Bag Snatching

When you're out in public, particularly in tourist areas, crowded places, and transportation hubs, there's a risk of pickpocketing. Thieves aren't just interested in stealing cash – they might target your passport, official IDs, electronic gadgets, jewelry, and other valuables. Identity theft is an increasingly growing threat, leading to significant financial harm and lengthy resolution processes.

To protect yourself, make copies of essential documents and use hotel safes when available. When outside, carry only necessary identification and currency. Choose to utilize your front pockets or those with zippers, a fanny pack, and ensure you keep a firm grip on your purse or bags.

Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

④ ATM Skimming

ATM machines can be swiftly compromised in a subtle manner, making detection very difficult. Criminals may install equipment to clandestinely collect card information and PINs.

It is advisable to opt for ATMs situated within the bank premises or in secure environments. When entering your PIN, exercise discretion to prevent observation by bystanders. Additionally, monitor your bank and credit card statements for any signs of unusual activity.

⑤ Street Scams

Many of these scams will involve the scammer initiating the contact and may include scams like the "lost tourist" or various "distraction techniques".

The lost tourist involves the scammer acting lost or in distress to lure you into a compromising situation. Distraction techniques can involve various methods including spilling a drink on you or asking for directions.

You should exercise caution when approached by an overly friendly stranger while keeping your personal belongings always secure.

⑥ Hotel Room Scams

These scams can occur at the time of booking or when you check-out.

You can easily find yourself victim to a fake room booking, unauthorized room upgrades, and hidden charges.

To avoid these scams, you should only book accommodation through reputable websites or directly with the hotel. Be sure to check independent on-line reviews prior to booking.

Upon arrival, review and confirm all reservation details. Upon check-out, carefully review your detailed bill and check for any discrepancies. Keep in mind that addressing issues becomes more challenging after check-out.

⑦ Counterfeit Currency

Identifying counterfeit currency, especially while traveling abroad, poses a significant challenge, particularly in bustling areas.

To mitigate this risk, you should acquaint yourself with the features of local currency, opt for reputable exchange services, and meticulously examine bills for authenticity. Maintaining vigilance during transactions is crucial, and any suspicions should be promptly reported to local authorities for investigation.

⑧ Charity Scams

It is not uncommon to run into charity scams while travelling. These may include scams related to animal rescue, medical treatments, educational, homelessness, elderly, and more.

Disaster relief scams are a good example of how scammers target travelers. Travelers may be more empathetic to communities devastated by a hurricane, tornado, or earthquake. Fake websites and live impersonators are common traps deployed.

You can avoid these scams by never giving cash directly to an individual. Research the organization and verify its charity registration status. Read independent reviews and prioritize reputable organizations.

⑨ Wi-Fi Network Scams

Connecting to unsecured Wi-Fi networks poses the risk of data theft or malware installation, potentially leading to identity theft and financial loss. To protect yourself, you should use virtual private networks (VPNs) for secure internet browsing, avoid accessing sensitive information on public networks, and verify the legitimacy of Wi-Fi networks before connecting.

⑩ Fake Authenticity / Souvenir Scams

It can be tempting to buy the $50 Louis Vuitton or Gucci bag from a street merchant, but you need to remember:

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is

〰️

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is 〰️

These street products often exhibit subpar quality and lack durability. While occasionally the risk-to-reward ratio may seem favorable, often, it proves to be unfavorable.

We recommend you purchase the item from a reputable store which may offer warranty protection and the option to return the product. You may be able to extend the warranty if your credit card offers such benefits.

Travel Insurance: Protect Your Wallet

Travel insurance benefits may include trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delays, missed connections, baggage delays, personal items, emergency medical, illness, injuries, and more.

Some of the scams highlighted above may be covered by travel insurance under certain circumstances. Others are clearly not covered by any type of travel insurance.

You can file a claim for a covered event to recover your losses. You will also receive invaluable assistance throughout the process. This assistance is often multilingual and available 24/7.

FINAL THOUGHTS

By staying informed about common travel scams, adopting proactive measures, and investing in travel insurance, you can significantly reduce your vulnerability and enjoy a safer and more enjoyable travel experience.

We recommend you utilize online resources and government websites for further guidance on travel safety, scam prevention, and travel insurance options.

We also extend an invitation to explore our supplementary resources, which include:

Travel Insurance Guide

Travel Insurance Reviews