8 Travel Scams Reported in Popular Tourist Areas — How to Spot and Avoid Them

8. Charity, donation and friendship scams

Heartfelt stories and staged emotional appeals can pressure travelers into donating money, often to sham organizations that pocket donations. Scammers may work in pairs—one person creates the story while another collects cash—or use sob stories about children or performers to trigger impulse giving. Legitimate charities usually accept donations through secure online portals, official booths, or recognizable collection boxes. If someone asks you for money on the street, ask for identification, the organization’s name, and a receipt. Avoid donating cash unless you can confirm the group’s credentials; consider taking a card payment or offering to donate online later after verifying the charity. If a local performer solicits payment for a posed photo or “sacred” item, agree on a price before handing over money and insist on a clear exchange. When in doubt, walk away and report persistent or aggressive collectors to local tourist authorities.