Our lives are full of technology, so we’re pretty used to picking up on internet and phone scams, like fake tax warnings or phishing emails. However, in-person scams may be harder to spot. They take advantage of our desire to connect with other people, something many of us do less these days than we used to. There is one in-person trick that travel pro Rick Steves warns us to look out for when traveling abroad (though it can happen here as well). This common travel scam can ruin your vacation, and it can strike when you’re at your most relaxed. Beware of the fake hotel room inspector.
Steves explains that this sham is often perpetrated by two people who knock on your hotel room door and claim to be there to inspect your room. One person will keep you distracted, while another one will enter the room and take a look around, grabbing what they can while you’re not paying attention. On his website, Steves says, “Don’t let people into your room if you weren’t expecting them. Call the hotel desk if ‘inspectors’ suddenly turn up.” There are several ways this scam can be done, but a little knowledge can help keep your things secure and your vacation on track.
All about the fake hotel inspector scam, as per Rick Steves
As Steves says, distraction is the way these scams work. It could be someone saying they’re there to inspect the room, checking to make sure you have enough towels or toiletries, or fixing an appliance like the toilet. They may even come in and take nothing, noting where your things are so they can break in later. If anyone comes to your door claiming to be from the hotel, don’t let them in. Instead, as Steves says, call the front desk and ask if anyone has been sent up. In-person scams take advantage of our desire not to be rude, especially if the person looks “official” in a hotel uniform or business clothing.
In-person scams come in many forms. Steves has also spoken about the friendship bracelet scam that opens you up to pickpockets. This, too, works on distraction. Someone will come up to you on the street, offering to show you a cool bracelet demonstration. You agree to be polite, and once you can’t take it off your arm, they demand money. While you’re arguing with them (if you don’t immediately cave to their demands), another person may be picking your pocket. Yet another, really insidious scam Steves has warned travelers about is the charity “petition” scam. Again, you’re trying to be kind, but while you’re signing or listening to a pitch to sign a petition, someone’s hand is in your bag. Keep your eyes open, and if something feels wrong, it probably is.
