Destinations › South Africa › Johannesburg › Scams
Johannesburg, South Africa
10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Johannesburg, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Unofficial parking attendants demanding payment at free or already-paid spaces, with implied threat to the vehicle.
Individuals presenting identification at roadside stops and demanding cash 'fines' from foreign drivers. Genuine officers issue written notices.
Unmetered taxis quoting inflated fares to visitors from the airport and stations. Ride apps and the airport train quote in advance.
Phone and bag snatching from vehicles at traffic lights and from pedestrians in the central business district.
The ATM 'helper' approach, with card swapping and shoulder-surfing at street machines. Use machines inside bank branches only.
Advance-fee employment offers charging for placements and work permits that do not exist.
Short-let listings taking deposits for properties unavailable or misrepresented on arrival.
Dynamic currency conversion at card terminals and shortchanging at market stalls.
Counterfeit branded goods and imitation crafts sold as locally made in the tourist markets.
Township tour operators taking payment for trips run without permits or insurance, with itineraries far shorter than described.
