The Most Common Tourist Scams to Avoid in London
London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is one of the most popular cities in the world and a must-see for any tourist who finds themselves in Europe. From Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, you’ll find something interesting around every corner in this culturally rich city where tradition meets modernity and creativity collides with conformity. However, with an influx of tourists comes an increase in con artists looking to take advantage of unsuspecting victims. Here are some of the most common tourist scams to watch out for while in London so you can maximize your enjoyment and minimize your losses while visiting one of the greatest cities on Earth!
Charity Scam
One of the most common scams targeting tourists in London is the charity scam. This is when a person dressed as a charity worker approaches you on the street and asks for a donation. They may be very persistent, but you should never give them money. If you want to donate to a charity, do your research first and make sure it is a legitimate organization.
Fake Tickets for Shows
One of the most common tourist scams in London is selling fake tickets for shows. This can happen anywhere from the street to online, so always be sure to buy your tickets from a reputable source. If you’re not sure, ask a local or someone at your hotel for help. Another way to avoid this scam is to only buy tickets for shows that are sold out, as there will be less of a chance that someone is trying to sell you a fake ticket.
Counterfeit Luxury Items
Beware of touts selling counterfeit luxury goods on the street, especially near popular tourist attractions. These items are often low quality and overpriced. If you’re interested in purchasing a luxury item, do your research ahead of time and buy from a reputable source.
ATM Scams
One of the most common scams in London (and around the world) is ATM skimming. This is when thieves attach a device to an ATM that captures your card information and PIN number. They can then use this information to withdraw money from your account. To avoid this, always cover your hand when entering your PIN and be on the lookout for anything suspicious attached to the machine.