Philippines Scams

Are you thinking of visiting the Philippines? Before you go, learn about the most Philippines Scams to avoid in the Philippines! One wonderful method to enjoy your trip and ensure that nothing goes wrong is to learn about the common frauds and scams that visitors encounter while visiting the country so that it does not happen to you! Despite the fact that the Philippines is a welcoming country, knowing about these frauds will not hurt you!

As we lead you through the different scams in the Philippines that you should definitely avoid, we’ve also compiled a list of things you should keep in mind during your visit.

Table of Contents

Money-Changing Scam

If you see a sign advertising an exchange rate that is much higher than the market price, then it’s a Philippines money-changing scam. The vendor will take your foreign currency, count out the correct amount of Philippine Pesos in front of you and tie it with a rubber band. Most tourists leave the stall pleased, only to find out later that they were shorted when they count their cash.

It’s not uncommon for vendors to slyly slip some money either through a small opening on the counter or onto the floor when counting your money. That’s why it’s wise to carefully check your cash in front of the vendor and remove any bands before leaving.

Taxi Scams

Taxi scams are a common occurrence that can happen in the Philippines. Taxi drivers may demand a higher fare than usual, purposely use a broken meter, or refuse to use the meter altogether and demand a fixed price. This is especially prevalent during rush hour or when they sense that you are a tourist. Be cautious to avoid falling prey to these types of online scams.

Pickpocket Scams

If you plan on taking a stroll down the bustling streets of Manila and Cebu, such as Divisoria and Carbon, keep your guard up against pickpocketing. Despite the fascinating history and unique experiences that these places offer, they are also notorious for pickpocketing schemes due to the high volume of people. Stay alert and be mindful of your surroundings to avoid falling victim to these scams.

Water Sport Scam

In popular beach resort destinations, many tourists rent motorbikes or participate in water sports to enjoy the serene and picturesque locations. However, it’s crucial to be aware of potential scams that may occur. One of the most common tactics is when a tourist rents a motorbike or water sports vessel, they may not notice subtle pieces of tape covering pre-existing damage. After returning the bike or jet ski, the vendor may remove the tape, accuse the tourist of causing the damage, and present an exorbitant bill for repairs. Stay alert to avoid falling victim to this scam.

Card Skimming Scams

If you want to keep your credit card details and bank account information safe, you should be aware of the card skimming scam. Always exercise caution when withdrawing money from ATM machines. Scammers use an electronic device that doubles as a card reader to steal personal details and information. Unfortunately, unsuspecting victims who are not vigilant can easily fall prey to these types of scams.

How to avoid scams in the Philippines?

Whether you’re shopping in malls or exchanging currency, it’s important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. This will help you avoid scams or fraudulent activities that could potentially ruin your trip.

When taking a taxi, consider using Google Maps to keep track of your location. Some drivers may take longer routes to overcharge you, but this tool will help ensure that you’re being taken to your desired destination.

To steer clear of common scams in the Philippines, it’s crucial to keep your important belongings and documents close to you and never leave them unattended. If you plan to visit a highly crowded area, it’s best to go with a trusted family member or someone who is familiar with the location to avoid pickpockets and other types of scammers.

Also, file a complaint on our website if you are a victim of a Philippines scammers and get free consultation from our experts.