1. Research and be informed

Before visiting Turkey, it is essential to gather some knowledge about common tourist scams in the country. This will help you recognize potential scams and take necessary precautions.

For example:

• Fake tour guides may approach you at popular tourist spots, offering their services at low prices but may end up providing subpar or non-existent tours.

• Unauthorized ticket sellers at historical sites or transportation hubs may try to deceive you by selling fake or overpriced tickets.

2. Use reputable travel agencies and authorized tour guides

Always prefer booking tours or transportation services from reputable travel agencies or certified tour guides. This reduces the risk of being scammed or deceived by unlicensed operators.

An example of a potential scam to avoid:

• Unregistered tour guides may approach you on the street and offer to show you around a popular attraction at a lower price. However, they may not have the required knowledge or authorization.

3. Be cautious with your belongings

Pickpocketing and theft can occur in crowded areas frequented by tourists. To avoid becoming a target:

• Keep your belongings secure, preferably in a locked bag or pocket.

• Avoid flaunting expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronic devices in public.

4. Use official transportation services

Stick to licensed and official transportation options such as registered taxis or public transportation. Be wary of unofficial taxis that may overcharge or take detours to increase the fare.

An example of a common transportation scam:

• Taxi drivers may refuse to use the meter or take longer routes to drive up the fare. Ensure the meter is used, or negotiate and agree on the fare before the trip starts.

5. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers

While Turkey is known for its hospitality, be cautious of overly friendly strangers who might approach you in tourist areas. Scammers may try to gain your trust and then trick you into various scams.

An example of a scam involving overly friendly strangers:

• Someone may strike up a conversation and invite you for tea or to a nearby shop. This can be a ploy to pressure you into buying overpriced items or attending a scammy sales presentation.

6. Verify prices and double-check bills

Before making any purchases or availing services, double-check the prices or bills to ensure you are not being overcharged or misled.

An example of a common scam related to prices and bills:

• At restaurants or shops, the prices mentioned on the menu or the offered discounts may not be honored when it comes time to pay. Verify the final amount matches what was initially agreed upon.

7. Stay alert in crowded places

Busy tourist spots often attract pickpockets or scammers. In crowded areas:

• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially bags, wallets, and mobile phones.

• Avoid accepting help from strangers, such as offering to take your picture, as it can be a distraction for theft.