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TRAVEL SCAM
Istanbul, Turkey
Carpet Shop Overpricing Scam
Tourists are invited into carpet shops and pressured into buying overpriced items through long demonstrations.
Medium Risk
COMMON LOCATIONS
Grand Bazaar, tourist markets, shopping areas
HOW IT HAPPENS
HOW THE SCAM WORKS
1. A local invites tourist into a shop;
2. Tea or hospitality is offered;
3. Staff shows multiple carpets with detailed explanation;
4. Tourist feels pressured to buy at high price.
WATCH FOR THIS
WARNING SIGNS
- Invited inside with free tea;
- Long product presentations;
- High starting prices;
- Difficulty leaving shop
STAY SMART
HOW TO AVOID IT
- Avoid entering shops with strangers;
- Do not feel obligated to buy;
- Compare prices before purchase;
- Leave politely if not interested
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