Tourist scams in New York city: How to spot and avoid

New York, the amazing “Big Apple,” is famous for its cool stuff and awesome sights. But you know what? There are some people who try to trick others. We’re here to help you know about these tricks so you can have a super time in the city!

Top 10 scams in New York city

Key points about this article

1. Fake Injury:

• Spot: Someone fakes an injury and asks for money.
• React: Don’t hand over money. Call for help if needed.
• Avoid: Be alert in crowds where this happens more.

2. Statue of Liberty Ticket Trickery:

• Spot: Watch out for people selling cheap tickets to the Statue of Liberty. Their tickets might be fake!

• React: Only buy tickets from real places or the official website.

• Avoid: Check real ticket prices before buying and don’t trust random people on the street.

3. Fake Taxi Fare Fixing:

• Spot: Sometimes taxi drivers might make the ride longer to charge more money.

• React: Ask them to take the shortest way, or use a map app to follow the route.

• Avoid: Use trusted taxis or ride apps like Uber and Lyft.

4. Street Performer Scam:

• Spot: Street performers might ask for money when you take their picture or watch them.

• React: If you’re not interested, just walk away.

• Avoid: Enjoy the show, but don’t give money if you don’t want to.

5. Times Square CD Hustle:

• Spot: People might give you free CDs, but then they’ll ask for money.

• React: Say “no, thanks” and keep walking.

• Avoid: Don’t take things from strangers and never pay them money.

6. Fake Tickets to Broadway Shows:

• Spot: Some people might sell you fake tickets to cool Broadway shows.

• React: Only buy tickets from real places or websites.

• Avoid: Be careful of people selling tickets on the street.

7. ATM Skimming Scam:

• Spot: Bad guys might put a device on ATMs to take your card info and PIN.

• React: Check the ATM for weird stuff, cover your PIN, and check your bank statements.

• Avoid: Use ATMs inside banks and watch out for anything strange.

8. Hotel Overcharge Scheme:

• Spot: Sometimes hotels might charge you more money than they should.

• React: Look at your bill carefully and ask about things you don’t understand.

• Avoid: Keep your booking info and read reviews to stay at a good place.

9. Fake Charity Fundraising:

• Spot: People might ask for money for charities on the street.

• React: Say “no, thanks” and check if the charity is real online.

• Avoid: Know about charities before you give money.

10. Central Park Horse Carriage Scam:

• Spot: Carriage drivers might ask for too much money or give bad rides.

• React: Talk about the price before the ride and make sure the carriage is good.

• Avoid: Pick nice carriage places that follow the rules.

How to Get Help:

If someone tries to trick you, here’s what you can do:

• File a police report if scammed.
• Call 911 for help.
• Notify your bank if your financial information was compromised.

Learn more about biggest travel scams at New York city in this video

Be sure to check out our other scam guides.

New York City is super fun, and now you know about tricky stuff that can happen. Stay smart, listen to your instincts, and have an awesome time in the city that never sleeps. Stay safe and have a blast!