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TRAVEL SCAM
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Tampered Card Machine Overcharge Scam
Scammers use manipulated payment terminals to charge extremely high amounts for low-cost items.
High Risk
COMMON LOCATIONS
Copacabana, Ipanema, Arpoador beaches, tourist zones
HOW IT HAPPENS
HOW THE SCAM WORKS
1. Tourist buys cheap food from street vendor
2. Vendor presents card machine for payment
3. Tourist enters PIN without checking amount
4. Device charges a much higher amount than expected
WATCH FOR THIS
WARNING SIGNS
• Vendor insists on card payment
• Amount not clearly visible on screen
• Asking to enter PIN quickly
• Final charge far higher than price quoted
STAY SMART
HOW TO AVOID IT
• Always check amount before entering PIN
• Avoid card payments with street vendors
• Use trusted vendors or pay cash carefully
• Monitor bank transactions immediately
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