As we move on post Covid and overseas traveling starts to increase, a lot of people need to be aware of the traditional non online scams. When embarking on your travels, it is important to exercise caution, especially when encountering overly friendly locals who approach you directly. While not all friendly encounters are scams, it's important to be extra vigilant and aware of potential scams designed to deceive unsuspecting tourists.
One common tactic employed by scammers is to initiate a conversation by asking where you are from. Once you disclose your country of origin, they will craft a story claiming that they have a relative or close connection residing in your country, the purpose of this is to build rapport. They will likely proceed to lavish praise upon your homeland in an attempt to establish a sense of camaraderie and trust.
However, it is crucial to remember that these individuals are operating with ulterior motives. After engaging you in conversation, the scammer will inquire about your intended destination. At this point, they will inform you that the place you planned to visit is closed due to a public holiday or close for construction/maintenance. Exploiting the situation, the scammer will offer an alternative location, suggesting that they can personally guide you there. In reality, this alternate place is a collaboration between the scammer and the establishment's owner, with the sole purpose of defrauding unsuspecting tourists. Sometimes the scammer will say that there is a big sale or special event that you can't miss out and need to follow him.
These fraudulent establishments can take various forms, such as alternative temples, restaurants, or shops. Once you arrive at the suggested location, the scammer will likely receive a commission or kickback for bringing customers to the establishment. You may encounter inflated prices, subpar products or services, or other forms of deceit aimed at extracting money from tourists.
To protect yourself from falling victim to such scams, it is advisable to exercise caution and follow these guidelines:
Maintain a level of skepticism: While it's important to be open to new experiences and interactions during your travels, it's equally important to be cautious and skeptical of strangers who seem overly friendly and eager to engage with you.
Guard personal information: Be mindful of the information you share, especially details regarding your travel plans, accommodation, or personal background. Limit the amount of personal information you disclose to individuals you have just met.
Verify information independently: If you are informed of unexpected closures or changes in plans, take the initiative to verify this information independently. Consult reputable sources such as guidebooks, official tourism websites, or local authorities.
Be selective with assistance: If someone offers to guide you to an alternative location, politely decline and thank them for their offer. Rely on reliable transportation or consult with your hotel concierge or trusted local guides for assistance.
Trust your instincts: Pay attention to your intuition and gut feelings. If something feels off or too good to be true, it's likely a red flag. Trust your instincts and err on the side of caution.
By remaining aware, skeptical, and following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to scams orchestrated by overly friendly locals when traveling. Remember, it's always better to prioritize your safety and well-being while exploring new destinations.