offline scams · 3 min read
How to Spot and Avoid the Top 10 Scams in Shenzhen
Shenzhen is a top tourist destination but visitors should beware of common scams like fake jewelry, tea ceremonies, taxi overcharging, and more.
As one of the fastest growing cities in China, Shenzhen attracts millions of visitors each year to its modern skyscrapers, exotic markets, and beautiful beaches. However, travelers should be aware of some common scams targeting tourists.
A close look at 10 major scams in Shenzhen
1. Fake Jewelry Scam:
- Spot: Vendors sell fake items like jewelry, watches, and antiques while claiming they are real. Inspect items closely.
- React: Politely decline, walk away. Do not engage further.
- Avoid: Only buy from reputable stores, not street stalls. Ask for certificates of authenticity.
2. Tea Ceremony Scam:
- Spot: Friendly locals invite you to traditional tea ceremonies that turn out to be overpriced tourist traps.
- React: Decline invitation. Do not follow strangers to unknown places.
- Avoid: Be wary of unsolicited invites from strangers. Research legitimate tea houses online beforehand.
3. Taxi Overcharging:
- Spot: Drivers take longer routes, tamper with meters, or lack working meters entirely.
- React: Request driver to stop and get out of cab if not aligned on fare.
- Avoid: Negotiate fare upfront. Have small bills for payment. Use rideshare apps if possible.
4. Fake Accidents:
- Spot: Scammers pretend to be injured by you and demand compensation.
- React: Do not engage, pay anything or follow them. Leave scene immediately.
- Avoid: Be cautious around distraction tactics and anyone asking you for money.
5. Rigged Games:
- Spot: Carnival games and gambling activities designed so you can’t win.
- React: Do not try to win money back. Walk away.
- Avoid: Avoid games promising easy winnings. They often cheat tourists.
6. Art Scam:
- Spot: Scammers pass off cheap art as valuable original pieces at inflated prices.
- React: Verify legitimacy before purchasing. Politely decline if uncertain.
- Avoid: Only buy from reputable galleries. Be wary of street deals.
7. Mobile Device Cloning:
- Spot: Scammers use RFID readers to clone credit cards, passports, and other smart devices nearby.
- React: Use RFID blocking materials to protect your devices. Keep them in faraday bags when not in use.
- Avoid: Limit what you carry when out sightseeing. Do not keep multiple cards/passports together. Enable device tracking.
8. WiFi Hacking:
- Spot: Public WiFi hotspots can grant hackers access to your data and credentials.
- React: Disconnect from public WiFi immediately and use cellular data instead.
- Avoid: Never access financial or sensitive accounts on public WiFi. Use a VPN if you need to connect.
9. Electronics Switch:
- Spot: Sellers at markets switch out your chosen item for a cheaper version at checkout.
- React: Inspect merchandise closely before paying. Call out switch attempt.
- Avoid: Pay strict attention during transactions. Buy only from authorized retailers.
10. Virtual Kidnapping:
- Spot: Callers pretend to have abducted a loved one and demand a ransom payment from you.
- React: Stay calm. Request to speak to the “kidnapped” person directly. Contact authorities.
- Avoid: Use caution with unsolicited calls demanding money or personal information. Verify facts.
How to Get Help:
- Contact the police hotline: 110.
- Report scams to authorities at the nearest police station.
- Check with your embassy/consulate if you need assistance or documentation.
Make sure to check out our other scam guides.
Scams happen everywhere in the world, but being vigilant and exercising caution can help avoid being targeted. Following local laws, staying alert in crowded areas, and being wary of anything that sounds too good to be true will help keep your trip scam-free.