Destinations › China › Shenzhen › Scams
Shenzhen, China
10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Shenzhen, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.
Phone and laptop repair stalls swapping genuine components for inferior ones during a repair carried out out of sight.
Electronics markets selling counterfeit or refurbished phones and components as new, with boxes resealed and fabricated warranty cards.
Advance-fee employment offers for foreign nationals requesting payment for work permits never filed.
Nightlife venues adding undisclosed table and hostess charges not shown on any menu.
Online contacts steering visitors to venues where inflated bills are produced and departure is obstructed.
Pickpocketing in the border-crossing queues and on packed metro lines at commuter hours.
Unlicensed money changers at the border offering favourable rates and shortchanging during a fast count.
Counterfeit notes given as change near the border crossings, targeting day visitors unfamiliar with the notes.
Unlicensed cars touting at the border crossings and railway stations with fixed fares well above metered rates.
Massage and spa packages advertised at one rate with compulsory extras applied at the venue.
