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Philippines
34 scams
A beautiful archipelago of islands, you can find great beaches, pristine lagoons, warm and friendly locals, adventures and getaways all in Philippines.
Unfortunately, at certain tourist attractions, you need to keep your guard up against touts, criminals and some transport providers.
Note: vast majority of trips are trouble free and there is no need to be paranoid. That said, it always pays to be aware, careful, and prepared.
Emergency number
- All emergencies: 911
Travel guide
Massage scams in Philippines
7 1How it works: Opening: at a red light distract, a ladyboy/woman offers you a massage at cheap prices. Version 1: the massage is given, but during the massage, your unattended…
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Sob story scammers in Philippines
6 4How it works: Version 1: claims to have been robbed and needs money for transport to the police station or embassy. Version 2: a mom claiming that she needs cash…
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Home gambling scam in Philippines
6 2How it works: Opening: a stranger asks where you are from, then claims to have a relative going there. He invites you to his place for a meal, hoping you can…
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Snatch thefts in Philippines
6 6How it works: Bike/moped: riding past with a pillion rider doing the snatch. Jeepney/car/taxi/bus: snatching valuables through a window at traffic lights/crowded traffic. Driving: throwing eggs/liquid/some substance onto your windscreen….
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Ativan gang family scam in Philippines
6 1How it works: Opening: a local befriends you, and once rapport is built, invites you for a meal with his family. Set-up: you meet the family and they show really warm…
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Would you like a drink bar scam in Philippines
5 0How it works: Opening: a friendly local befriends you and offers to bring you to a bar full of beautiful ladies. Version 1: there, ladies order expensive drinks on your…
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Fraudulent tour agents in Philippines
5 0How it works: Opening: unofficial “agents” (e.g. driver, street/each tout) will get you to sign up a tour with them. Version 1: you pay everything upfront and they then disappear….
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Restaurant, food stall scams in Philippines
4 0How it works: Situation: Most food places are fine, it’s generally just a few bad eggs around touristy areas that spoil it for the rest. Set-up: Version 1: providing a…
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Taxi scams in Philippines
4 7How it works: Version 1: claim that the meter is spoilt and so charge an inflated flat fare, or forgetting to turn on the meter. Version 2: rigged meter (batingting)…
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Kawasan Falls scams in Philippines
4 0How it works: Scam 1: fake parking attendants will ask you for a parking fee of 50 pesos. Scam 2: an unofficial guide or fake police officer insists that you…
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