Scamming happens not just online but also in real life and travelers are often targeted in many ways. Most people are focused on online scams and forget about scams happening worldwide. Scams are a significant issue for travelers because they can make them feel unsafe in their surroundings which can turn an enjoyable trip into an uncomfortable experience.
When traveling outside of the country can lead to issues that most people forget about such as, when traveling to foreign countries, travelers often enjoy exploring, but this can make them more vulnerable to scams. Especially in areas with many tourists visiting such as markets and popular attractions are popular sports to take scammed. It’s crucial to be aware of the various types of scams that may arise in foreign countries.
Nowadays scammers are now using advanced AI tools to generate highly realistic fake websites and emails, making it harder to identify fraudulent activity, these deals often appear legitimate, complete with realistic-looking websites and email communications, making it difficult for travelers to discern what’s real and what’s a scam.
Another scam tourists encounter is, overcharging. Vendors will increase their prices drastically for tourists or overcharge for services, this is most likely to happen in markets and tourist attractions. This can also occur when doing a currency exchange, where vendors charge more than the original price.
Some tips for a foreigner in a foreign land are, using websites such as Expedia, AmericanExpress, Thumbtack, and tours by locals. These websites can help make traveling easier.
Another one is researching before you travel to try and learn about the country’s culture and laws. Understanding the local currency, make sure you know the exchange rate.
Sophomore Leila Murugan travels out of the country frequently, she takes the chance of taking any international trips with her family.
“My family likes to travel, so any chance we get, we like to take international trips together. I went to Ireland, for example for spring break last year”
Leila shared her experience of being scammed when you were a tourist in Spain. As she was walking around they were approached by a lady who was selling some kind of plants, her mom’s friend seemed interested, and as she was selling them to her she tried to grab her bag with her money, and her purse.
Scams are an unfortunate part of traveling out but they can be avoided with the right precautions. By familiarizing themselves with local customs and laws and understanding the local currency, tourists can significantly lower their risk of falling victim. With awareness and preparation, travelers can have a more safe experience. A little knowledge can go a long way, in ensuring a smooth trip.
