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TRAVEL SCAM
Istanbul, Turkey
Shop Overcharge & Currency Scam
Shopkeepers charge tourists in a different currency or inflate prices to overcharge them.
High Risk
COMMON LOCATIONS
Bazaars, souvenir shops, tourist markets, city center
HOW IT HAPPENS
HOW THE SCAM WORKS
1. Tourist enters a shop in a tourist area
2. Price is discussed or shown unclearly
3. Payment is processed in a higher-value currency or inflated amount
4. Tourist realizes later they paid much more than expected
WATCH FOR THIS
WARNING SIGNS
• Prices not clearly displayed
• Payment currency not confirmed
• Staff rushing payment
• Final bill higher than expected
STAY SMART
HOW TO AVOID IT
• Always confirm price and currency before paying
• Check receipt and card machine carefully
• Compare prices in multiple shops
• Avoid rushed transactions in tourist areas
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