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TRAVEL SCAM
Istanbul, Turkey
“Let’s Have a Drink” Bar Scam
Scammers befriend tourists and lure them into bars where they are charged extremely high bills.
High Risk
COMMON LOCATIONS
Taksim Square, Istiklal Street, tourist nightlife areas
HOW IT HAPPENS
HOW THE SCAM WORKS
1. A well-dressed stranger starts friendly conversation;
2. Suggests going to a local bar;
3. Expensive drinks or company are added;
4. Tourist receives a huge bill and is pressured to pay.
WATCH FOR THIS
WARNING SIGNS
- Stranger starts conversation randomly;
- Invites you to a bar;
- No clear prices;
- Extremely high bill at the end
STAY SMART
HOW TO AVOID IT
- Never go to bars with strangers;
- Choose your own venues;
- Check reviews before entering;
- Leave immediately if suspicious
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