Background of Santorini, South Aegean, Greece

Santorini

Greece

🚨 Fake Parking Ticket Scam

đź’¬ This scam involves con-artists handing out fake parking tickets to tourists under the guise of parking fines. The tickets often look official and ask the tourists to pay the fine in cash directly to the perpetrators instead of paying it at local government offices.

đź’ˇ Pay parking fines through established payment channels, either at government offices or online portals. Never pay cash directly to individuals approaching you on the street.

🚨 Money Exchange Scam

💬 This scam involves con-artists offering tourists overly-generous money exchange rates, which are often way better than the market rates. After giving the tourists their “favorable” exchange rates, the con-artists will then try to switch out cash with fake bills or coins made of low-value materials.

đź’ˇ When exchanging money, always check the bills you get and compare it to the legitimate money exchange rates. Bargain for a reasonable rate and do your own research about the market rates. It is also important to roll your bills and coins to check for counterfeits.

🚨 Bogus Tour Scam

💬 This scam involves con-artists trying to lure tourists to buy tickets for bogus sightseeing tours. After tourists have already paid for the tour, they will then be taken to far-flung locations where they can’t get back to their hotels, and then forced to pay for more fees before they can be taken back.

đź’ˇ Always ask questions and research about the sightseeing tour to make sure it is legitimate. Never pay for a sightseeing tour unless you are 100% sure it is from a legitimate operator and has clear itinerary and timing stated.

🚨 Pickpocketing

đź’¬ Pickpocketing is a popular scam targeting unsuspecting tourists in crowded locations. Con-artists will often rely on distractions and slight of hand to take wallets, purses or valuables from unaware tourists.

💡 If visiting crowded tourist spots, always keep your valuables close to yourself. Wear a money belt or carry a small crossbody purse with zipper closures. Leave your valuables in your hotel locker when traveling in a group. Be aware of your surroundings and don’t be distracted when talking to strangers.

🚨 Beware of Souvenirs

đź’¬ This scam involves convincing unsuspecting tourists to buy souvenirs at very inflated prices. Con-artists will often use aggressive tactics and high-pressure sales pitch to get tourists to buy at very expensive prices.

💡 Always check prices at different stores and don’t be afraid to walk away. Don’t feel pressured to buy more than you need, and don’t be afraid to haggle and bargain for a lower price.

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