Every year, millions of tourists visit America to witness its breathtaking natural beauty, stunning beaches, deserts and rainforests. From bustling cities to charming small towns, every part of the country has something unique to offer. While the USA is generally tourist-friendly, you may encounter certain scams during your visit.
This blog will discuss some of the most prevalent tourist scams in America and how to avoid them.
Most Common Tourist Scams in the USA
Even the most experienced travellers can get scammed while out on an international trip. It’s best to be mindful of the types of fraudulent activities which you may encounter. Here are some of the most common tourist scams in America:
1. Telephone Scams
This is one notorious tourist scam in the USA that you need to be careful of. In this scam, the modus operandi usually entails you receiving a call from a fake government official who enquires about your identification and soon asks for your “social security” number or credit card number for validation. These robocalls are designed to steal your personal information.
Suggestion: Don't share any information on the phone, online, or anywhere else if the person is unknown.
2. Middle-of-the-Night Front Desk Calls
You get buzzed in the middle of the night by someone impersonating the receptionist at the front desk of your hotel. The person usually asks for your credit card details in order to resolve an "issue" with your hotel booking. Scammers will use your half-asleep state to steal your information.
Suggestion: Always visit the front desk in person for such matters.
3. Fake Hotel Listings
While making a reservation through third-party websites, there are prospects of engaging with a fake hotel listing. You pay in advance, but the reservation doesn't exist when you arrive.
Suggestion: Make sure to use legitimate booking sites and carefully research the property reviews before making any reservation.
4. ATM Skimming
Scammers attach a device to public ATMs that steals your card information once you withdraw money. The skimmers can reveal your PIN and card details.
Suggestion: When possible, try to use ATMs inside a bank, and always cover the keypad when punching in your password.
5. The Pizza Menu Scam
After a full day of sightseeing, you return to your hotel to find a pizza menu slid under your door. As you order for dinner, you willingly provide scammers with your credit card details and never receive a pizza.
Suggestion: Ask the hotel staff to validate any flyers you find before ordering food.
6. Street Games Like the Shell Game
In cities like New York and Las Vegas, you may come across street performers hosting the game of three cups and a hidden ball. Enticed by the win of a fellow person from the audience (who usually is the partner-in-crime), you indulge in the sport. They promise that you'll win money if you are able to guess the ball's location. The trick? The game is rigged, and you'll likely lose both the game and your money.
Suggestion: Walk away from such street games. They're often designed to fool you.
7. Photo and Look-Alike Schemes
In places like Hollywood or Times Square, people dressed like actors or famous personalities let you have a picture with them. Afterward, they ask for a huge tip and create a ruckus if you deny it.
Suggestion: Agree upon a price in advance, or even better, don’t take pictures.
8. Pedicab and Taxi Scams
Some pedicabs or taxis may overcharge tourists by taking longer routes or quoting exorbitant prices.
Suggestion: Confirm the price before you start the ride and track your route using GPS.
Tips to Deal with Tourist Scams in America
You can drastically reduce your chances of getting scammed if you're careful. Here are some tips to protect yourself from tourist scams in the USA:
- Stay Alert in Crowds. Crowded areas are ideal targets for pickpockets. Carry anti-theft bags, and don't put your wallet in your back pockets.
- Verify Calls: If you receive a suspicious call, hang up. Then, contact the organisation named in the call. A real agency would not ask for protected or personal information.
- Use Technology to Your Advantage: Use GPS to track your cab routes and avoid scams. For instance, navigation apps will let you know if a driver is taking a longer route.
- Say No and Walk Away: If a street person asks for money or sells something suspicious, refuse politely and walk away.
- Travel with insurance: Good single trip travel insurance can become a security blanket that covers incidents like theft.
Emergency Resources for Tourist Scams in America
Even after being cautious and careful, if you still fall prey to a scam, here are some emergency resources that you can refer to:
- 911 for Emergencies: Whether it is for theft or an immediate threat, call 911 for police, fire, or the right medical services.
- 411 for Directory Assistance: Need to locate a local service or issue a non-emergency problem? Dial 411, and it will guide you.
- Inform Your Country’s Embassy: As an international traveller, report your situation to your country's embassy or consulate. Indian travellers can seek assistance through the Indian Embassy.
- Report to the FTC: FTC stands for Federal Trade Commission. This governing body deals with all kinds of fraud and tourist scams in the USA. You can file a complaint on their website or over the phone.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Travel insurance policies often cover stolen goods and other emergency situations. Feel free to contact your insurer in case you need help.
Conclusion
America is a beautiful country with several unique destinations to explore. However, at times, you may end up in a tough spot. Hence, knowing about common tourist scams in the USA is integral to having a safe and enjoyable trip. Let information, precautions, and emergency resources guide you to exploring the wonders of the US scam-free!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.