Destinations › United States › San Francisco › Scams
San Francisco, United States
10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in San Francisco, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Unofficial 'tour' and parking operators near the waterfront charging for services that are free or far cheaper officially.
Vehicle break-ins at tourist parking areas and scenic viewpoints, often within minutes and in daylight. Leave nothing visible in a parked car, including an empty bag.
Restaurants applying automatic gratuity and undisclosed 'health mandate' surcharges on top, with tipping prompts on the total afterwards.
Fake charity collectors with clipboards working the waterfront and main shopping streets.
Dynamic currency conversion at card terminals and independent cash machines at poor rates.
Short-let listings taking deposits for properties that are unlicensed and unavailable on arrival.
Drivers taking extended routes from the airport and applying surcharges that do not apply. Ride apps quote in advance.
Resold attraction and island-tour tickets sold on the street or online that are already used or non-transferable.
Aggressive street 'CD artists' pressing a disc into a hand and then demanding payment, working the waterfront and shopping districts.
Counterfeit branded goods sold at street stalls near the waterfront as genuine.
