United States Travel Scams Guide - Stay Safe

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Timeshare Pitches

Free Vacation Offers

common

In tourist hotspots like Orlando, Florida, or Las Vegas, Nevada, salespeople approach visitors with offers for free shows or hotel stays, leading to mandatory high-pressure sales presentations for timeshares. These often result in contracts for properties valued at $20,000 or more, with hidden fees and no real resale value, targeting families at hotel lobbies or theme parks.

How to Avoid This Scam

Decline unsolicited offers and avoid sharing personal information; legitimate deals don't require immediate decisions.
Research timeshare companies via BBB.org before engaging, as many have poor ratings in the US.
Use apps like TripAdvisor to check for reports of aggressive pitches at specific locations like Disney World entrances.

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ATM Skimming

Skimmer Devices

occasional

Across the US, criminals install skimming devices on ATMs in busy areas like gas stations in rural routes or airport terminals, capturing card data and PINs. For instance, in national parks like Yellowstone, victims might lose hundreds of dollars as scammers withdraw funds shortly after use.

How to Avoid This Scam

Inspect ATMs for loose parts or skimmers before use, and prefer machines inside banks which are less targeted.
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN, and monitor bank statements frequently via US-based apps like Chase or Bank of America.
Use contactless payments or cards with chip technology, as they reduce risks in high-traffic areas like highway rest stops.

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Subway Distractions

Pickpocketing in Crowds

common

In NYC's subway system, particularly at stations like Times Square or Grand Central during peak hours, thieves use distractions such as fake arguments or dropped items to steal wallets, phones, or bags from tourists. Losses can exceed $500 in cash and cards, exploiting the dense crowds near Broadway theaters.

How to Avoid This Scam

Keep belongings in zippered pockets or wear cross-body bags, especially on lines like the 1 train to tourist sites.
Stay vigilant and avoid engaging with strangers who create diversions; report incidents to MTA police immediately.
Download the NYC Subway app for real-time crowding alerts, helping avoid high-risk trains during events like New Year's Eve.

🗽

Fake Tour Guides

Unauthorized Statue of Liberty Tours

occasional

Near Battery Park, unlicensed guides pose as official representatives, charging $50-100 for 'express' tours to the Statue of Liberty that don't include ferry tickets or lead to long waits, often directing groups to overpriced food vendors afterward.

How to Avoid This Scam

Book official tours through the National Park Service website to ensure legitimacy and fixed prices around $25 per adult.
Look for NPS badges on guides and avoid street solicitors; use CityPASS for bundled, verified attractions in Manhattan.
Check reviews on Yelp for specific operators near landmarks, as many scams are reported in tourist-heavy areas like Lower Manhattan.

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Hollywood Boulevard Hustles

Costumed Character Photos

common

On Hollywood Boulevard near the Walk of Fame, individuals dressed as characters like Spider-Man demand $20-50 for photos, then aggressively pursue payment or create scenes if refused, targeting visitors from the Hollywood Sign viewing areas.

How to Avoid This Scam

Politely decline and keep walking; official events are free, and paid interactions should be through licensed vendors.
Use your phone's camera discreetly and review LA Tourism Board guidelines on their site to identify legitimate performers.
Visit during off-peak hours or join guided tours from reputable companies like Starline Tours to avoid street hustlers.

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Rental Car Overcharges

Hidden Damage Fees

occasional

At LAX airport car rental counters, companies like some budget brands claim pre-existing damage on returned vehicles, charging extras up to $500 for minor scratches, often without clear documentation during pickup.

How to Avoid This Scam

Document the car's condition with photos and videos upon rental, using the company's app for records in California.
Choose rentals from major chains with transparent policies, and opt for insurance through your credit card to dispute fees.
Review the contract for add-ons and use sites like Kayak to compare rates, avoiding peak times at LAX for rushed decisions.

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Millennium Park Encounters

Fake Charity Solicitations

common

In Millennium Park and along the Lakefront Trail, people approach tourists with clipboards for fake charities, asking for $10-20 donations and providing no receipts, often near the Cloud Gate sculpture during festivals.

How to Avoid This Scam

Verify charities through the Illinois Attorney General's website before donating, and ask for official ID from solicitors.
Donate directly via apps like GoFundMe or established organizations, avoiding cash handouts in public spaces.
Be cautious in crowded events like Lollapalooza, and report suspicious activity to Chicago PD using their non-emergency line.

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Taxi Flat Rate Tricks

O'Hare Airport Overcharges

occasional

Taxi drivers from O'Hare International Airport insist on flat rates to downtown Chicago, charging $60 instead of the metered $40-50, by claiming traffic or taking detours through areas like the Magnificent Mile.

How to Avoid This Scam

Insist on the meter and use the city's regulated taxi stands; know the approximate fare via the Chicago Transit Authority app.
Opt for rideshares like Lyft, which show fixed estimates, or public transit like the 'L' train for reliable $5 fares.
Report overcharges to the Chicago Department of Business Affairs for refunds, as they enforce strict taxi regulations.