A recent study by the Mastercard Economics Institute has identified Hanoi and Bangkok as two of the world’s leading cities for reported travel-related fraud, highlighting growing concerns over tourist scams in Southeast Asia.
Bangkok: A Hotspot for Transport-Related Scams
In Bangkok, nearly half (48%) of reported tourist fraud cases involve taxi and car rental services. Common scams include overcharging, rigged meters, and unauthorized detours. Additionally, fraudulent tour bookings are prevalent, where tourists pay for excursions that either don’t occur or differ significantly from what was advertised.
The report also notes a surge in travel-related fraud during peak seasons, with incidents increasing by up to 28% in winter destinations and 18% in summer hotspots.
Hanoi: Emerging Concerns in Vietnam’s Capital
Hanoi has also been flagged for a high incidence of tourist scams. While specific data on the types of fraud were not detailed, the city’s inclusion in the report underscores the need for increased vigilance among travelers.
Global Context and Recommendations
Other cities with high reported fraud rates include Cancun (Mexico) and Dhaka (Bangladesh). Conversely, cities like San Francisco, Dublin, Seoul, Budapest, and Edinburgh reported the lowest levels of tourist fraud.
To mitigate risks, Mastercard advises travelers to:
- Use secure booking platforms and digital wallets with fraud protection.
- Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Purchase travel insurance.
- Utilize credit cards offering robust fraud protection.
As Southeast Asia continues to attract tourists worldwide, awareness and precaution remain key to ensuring safe and enjoyable travel experiences.
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Source: Vietnam Insider