🚩 Local Scams · Shenzhen
Last verified 30 Jun 2025
Shenzhen's rapid growth and sprawling districts present unique scam risks. Here are eight of the most common cons, where they occur, and how to steer clear.
1 Scam Spotlight Table
Electronics Knock-Off
Huaqiangbei electronics market
How it works: Sellers swap genuine gadgets for fakes after you pay
🛡️ Avoid: Buy only from official-brand or licensed stalls; test devices before paying.
Taxi Overcharge
Futian Airport, Luohu Station
How it works: Driver claims "no change" or takes longer route to inflate the fare
🛡️ Avoid: Use Didi with fare estimate; photograph plate & driver ID.
"Free Tour" Guide
OCT Loft
How it works: Stranger offers "complimentary" city tour then demands high fees
🛡️ Avoid: Book guides through licensed agencies or Dianping experiences only.
QR-Code Phishing
Night markets
How it works: Unsolicited QR codes lead to fake payment pages that drain your wallet
🛡️ Avoid: Only scan codes from printed menus or trusted apps; verify URL in scanner.
Art-Student Scam
Dafen Oil Painting Village
How it works: "Student" offers a free art workshop then pressures you to buy overpriced work
🛡️ Avoid: Pre-book workshops at official galleries; ignore street solicitations.
Accommodation Swap
Futian CBD hotels
How it works: You book a hotel online; on arrival they say "full" and reroute you to a pricier property
🛡️ Avoid: Book through reputable platforms; confirm hotel name/address before travel.
Fake "Police" Check
Metro exits
How it works: Imposter in plain clothes accuses you of a visa or transit violation and demands a "fine"
🛡️ Avoid: Ask to see official badge; offer to go to nearest station together.
Currency Mismatch
Train-station exchangers
How it works: Teller miscounts your bills or swaps notes for low-denomination fakes
🛡️ Avoid: Use bank ATMs or official exchange counters; count notes in front of teller.
2 Why It Matters
Tech savvy cons — Scammers exploit Shenzhen's electronics and digital culture—always test and verify before committing.
High-pressure tactics — Once engaged, they use social etiquette to trap you—prepare a polite refusal line.
Wide reach — From high-end malls to back-street alleys, no area is entirely scam-free.
3 Pro Tips
1
Buddy up — Navigate markets and nightlife with a companion to spot red flags.
2
Verify online — Check any new spot on Dianping/Meituan before engaging.
3
Digital limits — Use in-app wallet limits to cap potential losses if you scan a bad QR code.
4
Emergency contacts — Save +86 755 110 (local police) and your embassy's Shenzhen desk.
5
Trust instincts — If something feels off—price too low, friendliness too forward—just walk away.
✨ Stay Smart, Stay Safe
Stay alert and informed to keep your Shenzhen adventure focused on innovation and exploration—not on scams.