Scams to avoid when you come to New York City

As I always say: there is no perfect place. Sometimes, when we travel, we end up thinking that there are no scammers- which is a lie. Many people get more relaxed when traveling and it can be dangerous. Tourists are easy targets for scammers. We are so excited about our trip that seems that we lose our critical sense and it is easy to fall into traps. It’s no different in New York. There are lots of smart guys scattered around trying to take advantage of you. And one of the best ways not to fall for these scams is to know a little of each one of them to identify the situation and get out quickly. So, below you will know the major scams that you should avoid in the Big Apple.

Statue of Liberty – all the ferries to see Lady Liberty  depart from Battery Park,  Downtown area. First of all, it is good to remember one thing: there is only ONE boat landing on Statue Island, Statue Cruises. You can buy your ticket clicking here or also at Battery Park. But, there are lots of guys approaching tourists in the Battery Park area. They ask if you are going to see the Statue of Liberty and lie, saying there are no more tickets and that you should follow them. They will sell you a more expensive tour, on a ferry that does not stop on the island. Ignore these people. Do you listen to strangers? Of course not! So do not listen to these people! If you don’t want to buy your ticket on advance, go to Castle Clinton, which is in Battery Park. It is the only authorized place to buy tickets for the Statue of Liberty. Oh, and these folks are also usually across the street from the Staten Island Ferry station. They will approach you saying that you can not see the Statue from this ferry, etc, etc, etc.

My advice here is: search for options. There is the Staten Island Ferry, which is free, there are other tours that go near the Statue – like Water Taxi – and there is the official tour. Decide based on your desire and priorities, research it and do not listen to strangers!

Click here to see Statue Cruises boat pictures and here to know how to identify Castle Clinton. 

Metrocard – as I always say here, you’re going to use the subway a lot in New York – it’s the most practical, quick and inexpensive way to get around the city. Try to learn it about the subway system a little bit before you arrive in the city.Remember: there are no MTA employees assisting in the purchase of Metrocard. The only company employees that work at the station are those inside the kiosks (if you do not use a card, you can buy the Metrocard with them). Watch out for scammers offering to swipe the Metrocard – selling Metrocard rides is illegal! And beware of people offering unsolicited help!

Times Square – Lady Liberty, Mickey, Mario Bross, Naked Cowboy… you will see a lot of characters at Times Square. But, don’t forget it: almost anything in life is for free and those people are not there just for you to take a funny picture. If you take a picture, you should give a tip. Now, they have a delimited area at Times Square, activity zones. Don’t feel intimidated in case of anyone push you to take a picture. Say “no, thanks” and keep walking. And don’t be scared by the souvenir prices in Times Square stores: the prices are usually expensive! Overall, I would not recommend buying souvenirs there. A good location for this is Chinatown – walking down Canal Street you will see several places selling this type of product. Also, pay attention to the street vendors: in front of the Metropolitan Museum and at the Brooklyn Bridge, for example, you can find keychains and magnets for $ 1 – $ 2. Check out more tips: Times Square: survivor’s guide and more tips about the area.

Electronics – many people want to bargain when shopping, and they are always looking for the cheapest price, trying a discount. All to save money. The effort is valid, but it can be dangerous sometimes. New York and other American cities are electronics shopping paradise but remember: buy these products only from trusted stores like Best Buy, Adorama, and BH Photo. Here in New York, there are many smaller shops – mostly near the Times Square area. They sell everything – electronics and souvenirs. A lot of people have got scammed with fake products and even credit card scams. There are no miracles.

Fragrances and handbags  – at the same electronics stores and also in Chinatown stores – and even on streets – you will find many fragrances. From all the brands. These products are counterfeit. On this post, you can check out places to buy perfumes. I highly recommend watching this video from Refinery 29 that shows the counterfeit industry in New York. And it goes for other items, too? Do not think that those Kylie Jenner’s makeup products on the street are real! I will use this topic to talk about the famous “designer handbags” sold in Chinatown and also in other parts of the city. These bags are not replicas: they are fake!

CD’s – A “musician” approaches with headphones and presses you to listen to his tunes. The next thing you know, a CD is in your hand and you’re facing a lot of pressure to buy it. Reluctant to pay? The “musician” is likely to get nasty and, in some cases, call over his friends to get you to fork over some money. It scam ends with you walking away with a CD you don’t want, and may not even have any music on it. (Source: Fortune)

Transfers – Beware of drivers staying in the airport arrivals area approaching travelers. Always set the price before you leave. Incidentally, if you want to hire a driver, it is best to make the contact first and schedule everything.

Pedcab – a different way to tour Central midtown mid-town Manhattan is in a cart towed by a bicycle. If you would like to try it, be careful. Pedicab drivers are notorious for using tricky pricing systems and made-up fees, and getting aggressive if you complain. Set the distance and the price before you leave.

Did you like this post? I get very upset when I hear of people who have got scammed and I hope the post helps!

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