12 Most Dangerous Tourist Scams: How Not to Lose Money While Traveling

Travel brings joy, but tourists increasingly fall victim to scammers. According to the Daily Mail, the number of tourist scams has surged by 900% recently. We've broken down the 12 most popular schemes so you know how to spot and avoid them.

Step 1. Learn the Main Tricks of Scammers

1. "Bird Poop"

A scammer sprays you with a liquid resembling bird droppings and offers to help clean it up. While you're distracted, an accomplice steals your wallet or phone. Tip: Politely decline and move to a crowded area.

2. £1,500 Kebab

In tourist areas, you may be served a seemingly cheap kebab, only to receive a bill for £1,500, claiming the price was per gram. Tip: Always confirm the total cost before ordering and check the menu.

3. Fake Taxis

Drivers of illegal taxis inflate prices by 10 times or take you on a longer route. Tip: Only use official taxi stands or apps with fixed pricing.

4. Currency Exchange with a "Friendly" Rate

A stranger offers to exchange money at a favorable rate but gives counterfeit bills or shortchanges you. Tip: Exchange currency only at banks or official exchange offices.

5. Free Bracelets

Someone puts a "free" bracelet on your wrist on the street and then demands payment. Tip: Do not accept anything from strangers.

6. Fake Wi-Fi

Scammers set up access points with names similar to hotel networks and steal your data. Tip: Only connect to trusted networks and use a VPN.

7. Imposter Waiter

In a restaurant, a person in uniform approaches and asks you to pay the bill again, claiming an error. Tip: Verify that the payment went through and do not hand your card to strangers.

8. Phantom Rental Accommodation

Scammers rent out a non-existent apartment, take a deposit, and disappear. Tip: Book only through trusted platforms and read reviews.

9. Event Tickets

Sale of counterfeit tickets for concerts or excursions. Tip: Buy tickets only from official organizers.

10. ATM Assistance

A stranger offers to help you with an ATM and then copies your card details. Tip: Always cover the keypad with your hand and refuse help.

11. Fake Guides

Fake guides overcharge or lead you astray. Tip: Hire guides only through official tourist offices.

12. Charity Collections

Scammers collect money supposedly for children or the sick. Tip: Donate only to verified organizations.

Step 2. Protect Your Finances

Use virtual cards for payments while traveling: they allow you to set limits, quickly block the card, and keep your main card details private. VirtCardPay recommends having a separate travel card with a small balance.

Step 3. FAQ

Question: What should I do if I become a victim of a scam?
Answer: Immediately block your card, contact local police, and notify your bank. If you used a virtual card, simply issue a new one.

Question: How can I pay safely abroad?
Answer: Use virtual cards with limits, don't keep all your money on one card, and enable SMS alerts.

Question: Should I travel with cash?
Answer: It's best to carry a small amount of cash for tips, but pay for major expenses by card—it's safer.

Disclaimer: This information is for informational purposes only. VirtCardPay is not responsible for financial losses related to the described schemes. Stay vigilant.

Sources

• https://www.dailymail.com/travel/article-15771365/worlds-biggest-scams-tourists-watch-risk-losing.html