15 Travel Scams on the Rise (and How to Avoid Them)

Have you ever landed in a new city only to feel like something’s just a little off? Maybe a friendly local offers help that turns into a sales pitch, or a taxi meter races faster than the car itself. Scams can ruin even the best-planned trips, especially when they prey on the excitement and distractions that come with travel. After experiencing a few close calls myself, I’ve put together a list of travel scams that are popping up more often—and how to avoid falling for them.

1. The “Closed Hotel” Trick

You’ve just arrived, and a friendly driver tells you your hotel is closed or overbooked. They’ll “help” you find another place, usually one that pays them commission or is wildly overpriced. It’s a common scam near airports or train stations. Always contact your hotel directly to confirm any closures or booking issues. Having printed confirmations and maps helps, especially in areas with poor internet. Politely decline help from strangers pressuring you to reroute. Stick with your original plan unless verified by a trusted source, like your hotel or official tourism desk.

2. Fake Wi-Fi Networks

It’s tempting to hop on free public Wi-Fi at a café or airport, but scammers set up fake networks with similar names to trusted ones. Once connected, they can access your personal information, including saved passwords and emails. Always verify the network name with staff before logging on. Better yet, use a virtual private network (VPN) to add a layer of protection. If a network doesn’t require a password, it’s usually not safe. Travelers should also avoid logging into bank accounts or sensitive apps on public connections.

3. The Taxi Meter Scam

Some drivers rig their meters to run faster or claim the meter is broken, offering a “flat rate” that’s far too high. This happens often at airports and tourist hotspots. To avoid this, research local taxi rates before your trip and ask your hotel about reputable services. Apps like Uber or Bolt can offer more transparency. If you must take a street taxi, always confirm the meter is running or agree on a fair fare beforehand. Watch for drivers who take a suspiciously long route or loop in circles.

4. Fake Police Officers

Scammers posing as police may approach you and request to inspect your wallet or passport for “counterfeit currency” or drugs. They may show fake badges and use intimidation. Real officers won’t ask to inspect personal belongings without cause. If this happens, remain calm and ask for identification. Offer to accompany them to a nearby police station instead. Never hand over your documents or wallet in the street. When in doubt, ask bystanders or staff at a nearby shop or hotel to help verify the legitimacy of the situation.

5. “Free” Bracelets or Gifts

Vendors may approach with a smile, offering a bracelet, flower, or other trinket as a “gift.” Once it’s in your hand or tied to your wrist, they demand payment, often aggressively. This scam thrives in popular tourist squares and monuments. The best defense is to never accept unsolicited items. Politely but firmly say no and keep moving. Scammers bank on your politeness and hesitation. If you do end up with something, stand your ground or alert local authorities. Scammers often move on when they sense they’ve lost control of the interaction.

6. The Damaged Rental Scam

You return a scooter, bike, or car, and the owner points to damage you didn’t cause, demanding money. Sometimes, the damage was already there or even caused after you left. Take photos or video of your rental from every angle before and after using it. Stick with reputable companies and avoid rentals without contracts. If possible, pay by credit card, which offers dispute protection. Also, don’t leave the vehicle unattended in questionable areas. Scammers rely on the assumption that tourists won’t fight back. Documentation gives you the upper hand.

7. Fake Petition Signatures

Young people with clipboards often ask for signatures for fake causes: animal rights, disabled support, or local schools. They catch your sympathy and then ask for a donation. It’s usually a team effort, with pickpockets working the crowd. This scam is common near landmarks. Avoid engaging with clipboard solicitors, especially if they approach aggressively or block your path. Politely say no and walk away. Even if you’re tempted to support a cause, remember that legitimate charities won’t operate like this in the middle of busy tourist areas.

8. The Attraction “Guide” Scam

At popular attractions, a local may claim the site is closed or under renovation but offer to guide you elsewhere. Often, they lead you to a high-priced shop or ask for a tip after a quick walkaround. This scam preys on spontaneity. Always check hours and closures through official websites before you arrive. If someone approaches you unsolicited near a museum or historical site, it’s best to ignore them. If you need information, ask staff inside the attraction or use posted signage rather than trusting passersby.

9. Currency Exchange Cons

Some exchange booths, especially ones in sketchy areas or with no clear signage, will give you terrible rates, shortchange you, or include hidden fees. Always count your money before walking away. Use official exchanges in airports, hotels, or banks. Better yet, withdraw local currency from an ATM using a reputable bank. Apps like XE Currency can help you track the correct rates. If something feels off like someone pressuring you to exchange “on the street”, walk away. A little research and caution can save you from losing hundreds of dollars.

10. ATM Skimming Devices

Scammers install card readers on ATMs to clone your card and steal your PIN. These devices are usually hard to spot, especially in poorly lit or isolated locations. Use ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, busy areas. Always tug the card slot—if it feels loose or strange, don’t use it. Cover your hand when entering your PIN. Also, check your bank account regularly while traveling so you can catch any fraudulent charges quickly. Prevention is key when it comes to digital theft—it’s harder to fix afterward.

11. The Overhelpful Local

You’re trying to buy a metro ticket, and someone swoops in to “assist,” pressing buttons quickly or confusing you. Then, they either pick your pocket or demand a tip. Sometimes, they distract you while an accomplice grabs your bag. Avoid accepting help from strangers at ticket machines, ATMs, or public kiosks. If you feel overwhelmed, ask the official staff instead. Keep bags zipped and in front of you in crowded spaces. Scammers rely on the rush and confusion of transit areas, it’s their favorite hunting ground.

12. Fake Tour Companies

These scammers create websites, flyers, or social media ads for tours that don’t exist. You pay in advance and show up, only to find no one there. This scam has surged with the rise of online bookings. Always research tour operators thoroughly. Check reviews on trusted platforms and never book through shady-looking websites. If it’s too cheap to be true, it probably is. Use a credit card for payments to allow chargebacks if necessary. It’s worth paying more for peace of mind and a guaranteed experience.

13. The Pickpocket “Bump”

Someone bumps into you “accidentally” in a crowd. Moments later, your phone or wallet is gone. These bumps are choreographed and quick. Pickpockets often work in teams; one distracts, another steals. Wear anti-theft bags or money belts under your clothing. Don’t keep valuables in back pockets or open bags. In busy markets or public transport, stay alert. If someone seems too close or persistent, move away. You won’t notice the theft until it’s too late, which is exactly how they like it. Awareness is your best defense.

14. Fake Petitions at Restaurants

A scammer might walk up to your outdoor table with a clipboard, pretending to collect signatures. While you’re distracted, they swipe your phone, wallet, or bag from the table. This one’s sneaky and surprisingly common in busy cities. Never leave valuables out, even if you’re sitting right next to them. Keep your bag strap looped around your chair leg or place smaller items on your lap. Scammers move quickly, and once they’re gone into a crowd, there’s little chance of getting your stuff back. Better safe than sorry.

15. Rental Listing Fraud

You find the perfect vacation rental online, great photos, low price, kind host, but it turns out the listing is fake or double-booked. You arrive to find someone else already staying there, or nothing exists at all. Stick to trusted platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo and always read reviews. Communicate through official channels, and be wary of anyone asking to “take it off the site” for a discount. If something feels off, trust your gut. Too-good-to-be-true listings often are and once you’ve paid, it’s hard to recover funds.