Scam City: Unveiling the Dark Side of Mumbai

TLDRIn this episode of Scam City, Connor Woodman explores the scams and hustles targeting tourists in Mumbai, India's biggest city. From dodgy cab drivers to fake Bollywood casting directors, Connor exposes the tricks of the trade and reveals the lengths scammers will go to con unsuspecting tourists.

Key insights

🚖Dodgy cab drivers are a common scam in Mumbai, with drivers taking longer routes to rack up the fare.

🎥Fake Bollywood casting directors approach tourists, promising them roles in movies for a fee.

🎈Street vendors sell overpriced souvenirs and often use deceptive tactics to attract tourists.

📚Fake books and DVDs are sold to tourists, often made to resemble popular titles but of poor quality.

💰Money exchange scams, where tourists are given less money than promised, are common in tourist areas.

Q&A

Are there any genuine casting directors in Mumbai?

Yes, there are genuine casting directors in Mumbai, but tourists should be cautious and do thorough research before engaging with them.

How can I avoid getting scammed by a cab driver?

To avoid getting scammed by a cab driver, always insist on using the meter or agree on a fixed fare before getting in the cab. It's also helpful to have a map or GPS to ensure you're going in the right direction.

What should I do if I suspect a scam?

If you suspect a scam, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Avoid giving out personal or financial information, and report any suspicious activities to the local authorities or your embassy.

Is it safe to buy souvenirs from street vendors?

Buying souvenirs from street vendors can be risky, as many sell overpriced or counterfeit items. It's best to research the average prices and quality of souvenirs beforehand, and always be wary of too-good-to-be-true deals.

How can I protect myself from money exchange scams?

To protect yourself from money exchange scams, only exchange money at reputable banks or exchange offices. Count the money you receive before leaving the counter, and be cautious of anyone offering to exchange money on the street.

Timestamped Summary

02:22Dodgy cab drivers are a common scam in Mumbai, often taking longer routes to increase the fare.

06:40Fake Bollywood casting directors approach tourists, promising them roles in movies for a fee.

14:31Street vendors in popular tourist areas often sell overpriced souvenirs and use deceptive tactics to attract tourists.

17:00Tourists should be cautious of fake books and DVDs, often made to resemble popular titles but of poor quality.

18:02Money exchange scams are common in tourist areas, where tourists are given less money than promised.