14 Scams To Avoid When Visiting London
Welcome to London, a city of dreams and… unfortunately, some schemes! Did you know that in 2023, tourists in London lost millions to scams? Yikes! But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. As a seasoned traveler and local expert, I’m here to spill the tea on the 14 most common scams in London you might encounter. Let’s make sure your London vacation is filled with amazing memories, not costly mistakes!
1. The Classic “Free” Bracelet Trap
Picture this: You’re strolling through Covent Garden, admiring the street performers, when suddenly a friendly “monk” approaches you with a smile. Before you know it, they’re tying a colourful string around your wrist, claiming it’s a blessing or good luck charm. Sounds harmless, right? Wrong!
This seemingly innocent gesture is one of the most common London tourist scams. Once the bracelet is on, these scammers turn aggressive, demanding payment for their “service.” They’ll claim it’s for charity or their temple, playing on your guilt and the awkwardness of the situation.
To avoid this trap, be firm and keep walking. A polite but assertive “No, thank you” while continuing on your way is your best defence. Remember, true monks don’t typically approach tourists on the street.
2. Fake Ticket Scams: Don’t Let Your West End Dreams Turn into Nightmares
London’s West End is a magical place, but it’s also a hotbed for fake ticket scams. Imagine queuing up for that must-see show, only to be turned away because your tickets are counterfeit. Heartbreaking and wallet-draining.
Be wary of too-good-to-be-true deals from street sellers or sketchy websites. Legitimate tickets for popular shows rarely go for bargain prices, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To stay safe, always purchase from official sources like the theatre box office, TKTS booth in Leicester Square, or reputable online vendors. If a deal seems suspiciously cheap, it probably is. Don’t let the allure of a bargain ruin your London theatre experience.
3. The Sneaky Three Card Monte: A Game You Can’t Win
You might spot a group gathered around a cardboard box on Westminster Bridge or near popular London tourist traps. They’re watching an exciting game where a player tries to follow a specific card as the dealer quickly shuffles three cards. Looks easy, right?
Don’t be fooled! This is the infamous Three Card Monte, and it’s rigged from the start. The “winning” players you see are part of the scam, designed to lure you in. Once you start playing, you’ll find it impossible to win, and you might even be pressured to bet more than you intended.
Remember, street gambling is illegal in London. Not only could you lose money, but you might also find yourself in trouble with the law. If you see a game like this, keep walking and save your pounds for a proper London experience.
4. Overcharging Taxis: Don’t Take Them for a Ride
London’s iconic black cabs are a safe and reliable way to get around but beware of unlicensed taxis looking to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. These unofficial cabs might overcharge you, take unnecessarily long routes, or worse – put your safety at risk.
To avoid London airport taxi scams and other taxi-related fraud, always use licensed black cabs or book through reputable ride-sharing apps. Licensed black cabs have a white license plate on the rear and a lit-up “TAXI” sign on top. Drivers should always use the meter for your journey.
If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to ask to see the driver’s badge or use taxi ranks at stations and airports. A little caution goes a long way in ensuring you get a fair ride in the city.
5. Rickshaw Rip-offs: A Pricey Pedal Through Town
Ah, the charming rickshaws of London! They might seem like a fun way to zip through the busy streets, but beware – these unregulated rides can quickly turn into a major tourist trap.
Unlike black cabs, rickshaws (also known as pedicabs) don’t have set fares. This lack of regulation means some unscrupulous drivers might charge extortionate rates, especially for short trips in central areas like Soho or Covent Garden.
To avoid being taken for a ride (pun intended!), always negotiate and agree on a price before hopping in. Better yet, consider safer and more reliable alternatives like the Tube, buses, or a brisk walk – it’s often quicker and always cheaper.
6. The “Helpful” Stranger at the ATM
Picture this: You’re at an ATM, and a friendly local offers to help you navigate the “tricky” British banking system. Sounds nice, right? Wrong! This is a classic distraction technique used by thieves to snatch your card or peek at your PIN.
To avoid becoming a victim of London ATM fraud, always use ATMs inside banks when possible. If you must use a street ATM, be wary of anyone hovering nearby or offering unsolicited help. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN, and never let anyone “assist” you with your transaction.
Remember, your bank card is like cash – guard it carefully!
7. Counterfeit Currency: Keep Your Pounds Sterling
With its colourful designs and varying sizes, British currency can be confusing for visitors. Unfortunately, some scammers take advantage of this confusion to pass off counterfeit notes to unsuspecting tourists.
To avoid ending up with fake money, familiarize yourself with genuine British banknotes. Look for the clear window on newer polymer notes and the metallic thread on paper notes. When in doubt, it’s best to break larger bills at established businesses rather than with street vendors.
If you suspect you’ve received counterfeit currency, report it to the police. Remember, knowingly passing on fake money is a crime, even if you’re not the one who created it.
8. The Spilled Drink Diversion
You’re enjoying a pint at a crowded pub when suddenly – oops! – someone spills their drink on you. As they apologize profusely and help clean you up, their accomplice is busy picking your pocket.
This classic distraction technique is common in busy areas like Oxford Street or Camden Market. To protect yourself, be extra vigilant in crowded spaces. Keep your valuables in secure, hard-to-reach places, and be wary of overly helpful strangers, especially after “accidents.”
Remember, a real Londoner might apologize, but they’re unlikely to make a big fuss over a spilled drink.
9. Fake Petitions and Charity Collectors
London is full of worthy causes, but not all charity collectors are legitimate. Some scammers use fake petitions or pose as charity workers to get your personal information or pressure you into donating.
To avoid falling for charity scams, always ask to see official ID and never give out personal details or cash on the spot. If you’re interested in a cause, take their information and research it later. Legitimate charities will be happy for you to donate through their official channels.
Remember, true charity doesn’t pressure or guilt you into immediate action!
10. The Broken Camera Con
You’re admiring the view from Tower Bridge when someone asks you to take their photo. As you hand back their camera, they claim you’ve broken it and demand compensation. This London Street scam plays on tourists’ politeness and fear of confrontation.
To avoid this trap, be cautious when strangers ask you to handle their expensive equipment. If someone claims you’ve damaged their property, stay calm and suggest involving the police to file a proper report. Scammers will usually back off at this point.
11. Accommodation Scams: Don’t Let Your Dream Stay Become a Nightmare
With the rise of vacation rentals, scammers have found new ways to trick tourists. They might list non-existent properties or double-book real ones, leaving you stranded upon arrival.
To avoid vacation rental fraud in London, always book through reputable platforms with buyer protection. Be wary of listings that seem too good to be true or hosts who pressure you to pay outside the official booking system.
A little research can save you from a lot of heartache. Check reviews carefully, and if possible, verify the property’s existence before booking.
12. The “Free” Rose Scam: Thorny Situation Ahead
You’re enjoying a romantic evening in Leicester Square when a charming flower seller offers you a “free” rose. But once it’s in your hand (or worse, given to your partner), they’ll demand payment, often at an inflated price.
This scam plays on social pressure and the desire not to cause a scene. To avoid it, firmly refuse any “free” gifts from strangers. If you do want to buy flowers, purchase from legitimate stands or shops instead.
Remember, in London, very few things are truly free!
13. Wi-Fi Honeypots: Don’t Let Hackers Crash Your Digital Party
In our connected world, free Wi-Fi seems like a godsend. But beware – not all hotspots are safe. Scammers set up fake networks in tourist areas to steal your data.
To protect yourself, avoid accessing sensitive information (like online banking) on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN for added security, and when in doubt, stick to your mobile data. Your Instagram updates can wait until you’re on a secure network.
14. The “Helpful” Hotel Calls Scam
You’re settling into your hotel room when the phone rings. It’s the “front desk” calling to verify your credit card details due to a “problem” with your booking. Sounds legit, right? Wrong!
This scam preys on tired travellers who might not think twice about giving out their info. Always hang up and verify any such requests in person at the front desk. A real hotel will never ask for sensitive information over the phone.