Protection from scams in Thailand: tips and warnings
Thailand is a popular travel destination, but it is important to protect yourself from potential scams. Here are some tips and typical scams:
**1. Currency exchange:
- Typical scams: Avoid money changers on the street, as they often offer unfavorable exchange rates. Some may also use counterfeit banknotes.
- Protective measures: Use official money exchange offices in banks or licensed exchange offices.
**2. Cab fraud:
- Typical scams: Some cab drivers might not turn on the taximeter or choose unnecessarily long routes to increase the fare.
- Protective measures: Only use cabs with a functioning taximeter or agree a fixed price in advance.
**3. Fraud with tourist attractions:
- Typical scams: Some unauthorized tour operators may overcharge for tours or offer substandard services.
- Protective measures: Book tours with reputable companies and read reviews in advance.
**4. Gemscam:
- Typical scams: “Friendly locals” invite you to visit a gallery where you are then pressured into buying expensive jewelry.
- Protective measures: Be skeptical of invitations to unusual places and decline them.
**5. Tuk-tuk traps:
- Typical scams: Some tuk-tuk drivers may claim that attractions are closed in order to take you to other places where they receive commissions.
- Protective measures: Insist on driving to your chosen destinations and be skeptical of recommendations.
**6. Alleged police officers:
- Typical scams: People pretending to be police officers could ask tourists to pay fines on the spot for alleged violations.
- Protective measures: Ask for official identification and refuse to pay on the spot. Go to real police stations.
**7. Limited time offers:
- Typical scams: Street vendors might claim that they have a special offer today only or for a limited time.
- Protective measures: Take your time to check offers and do not allow yourself to be rushed into spontaneous decisions.
**8. Baggage fraud:
- Typical scams: Someone might pretend to help you carry your luggage and then charge you unreasonable fees.
- Protective measures: Be wary of strangers who offer unexpected help and clarify fees in advance.
**9. Excessive drinks bills:
- Typical scams: In some bars, you might be presented with inflated bills.
- Protective measures: Pay attention to the prices before you order and only pay for what you have ordered.
** Lottery scams: – Typical scams:
locals might claim you have won a lottery, but to get the prize you have to pay fees first. – Protective measures: Be skeptical of unexpected win notifications and don’t pay fees upfront.
Always being alert and informed is crucial to protect yourself from scams. Trust official service providers, be skeptical of unexpected offers and research local scams in advance.
