Being aware of common scams is essential for any expatriate in Mexico City. While most people you’ll meet are honest and welcoming, knowing what to watch out for will help you avoid uncomfortable or potentially dangerous situations. This guide details the most common scams and provides practical advice on how to avoid them.

Rental and Housing Scams

The Fake Rental Listing

This common scam targets people looking for apartments:

How It Works:

• Scammers copy real estate listings from legitimate websites
• They post the same properties at surprisingly low prices
• They claim to be out of the country and cannot show the property
• They request a deposit to “hold” the apartment
• Once money is sent, they disappear

How to Protect Yourself:

• Never send money without seeing a property in person
• Always meet the actual owner or legitimate real estate agent
• Request official identification and property documents
• Use established real estate agencies
• Be suspicious of prices that seem too good to be true
• Verify the property actually exists at the stated address

The Double Rental Scam

A more sophisticated version of rental fraud:

How It Works:

• Scammers actually have access to a property (often as current tenants)
• They show the property to multiple potential renters
• They collect multiple deposits
• They disappear before the move-in date
• Multiple victims show up to claim the same property

Prevention Tips:

• Request to see official property documents
• Verify the person’s identity and right to rent the property
• Use a licensed real estate agent
• Get everything in writing with proper legal documentation
• Check if the property is listed with multiple agents

Transportation Scams

The Taxi Meter Scam

Common in non-official taxis:

How It Works:

• Taxi has a manipulated meter that runs faster than normal
• Driver takes unnecessarily long routes
• Meter starts with an inflated base fare
• Driver claims meter is broken and charges inflated flat rate

Prevention:

• Use official taxi sitios (stands) or ride-hailing apps
• Know approximate rates for common routes
• Agree on fare before starting journey if meter is “broken”
• Take photos of official taxi numbers when entering
• Keep track of your route on your phone’s map

The Airport Transportation Scam

Targets newly arrived visitors:

How It Works:

• Unofficial drivers approach you in arrival areas
• They offer “official” transportation services
• They quote inflated prices or use rigged meters
• Some may work with accomplices to seem more legitimate

Stay Safe By:

• Only using official airport taxi booths
• Pre-booking transportation through your hotel
• Using ride-hailing apps from designated pickup areas
• Ignoring unsolicited transportation offers
• Having your hotel arrange pickup if possible

Financial Scams

ATM Skimming

Sophisticated card fraud:

How It Works:

• Criminals install skimming devices on ATMs
• Hidden cameras record PIN entries
• Card information is stolen and cloned
• Accounts are drained before victims notice

Protection Methods:

• Use ATMs inside banks during business hours
• Cover the keypad when entering PIN
• Check for loose or suspicious card readers
• Enable bank notifications for transactions
• Use credit cards instead of debit cards when possible
• Monitor accounts regularly for suspicious activity

The Currency Exchange Scam

Common in tourist areas:

How It Works:

• Scammers offer better exchange rates than banks
• They use sleight of hand to short-change you
• They may give counterfeit bills
• Some use incorrect conversion rates

Avoid By:

• Only exchanging money at official banks or exchange houses
• Learning current exchange rates
• Counting money carefully before accepting
• Avoiding street money changers
• Using ATMs for withdrawals in local currency

Phone and Technology Scams

The Phone Scam

Increasingly common:

How It Works:

• Scammers call claiming to be from your bank
• They report suspicious activity on your account
• They request personal information or passwords
• They may know some of your personal details
• They pressure you to act quickly

Protection Strategies:

• Never give personal information over the phone
• Hang up and call your bank directly
• Don’t trust caller ID (it can be spoofed)
• Be suspicious of urgent requests
• Remember banks never ask for passwords

The WiFi Scam

Common in public areas:

How It Works:

• Scammers set up fake WiFi networks
• Networks may mimic legitimate business names
• They capture data when you connect
• They may install malware on your device

Stay Safe Online:

• Use cellular data when possible
• Verify network names with businesses
• Avoid accessing sensitive information on public WiFi
• Use a VPN for additional security
• Keep device security updated

Service Industry Scams

The Restaurant Bill Scam

Various forms exist:

How It Works:

• Bill is padded with extra items
• Incorrect calculations are made
• Credit card is charged multiple times
• Wrong change is given for cash payments

Prevention:

• Check bills carefully
• Keep receipts
• Use card payment when possible
• Take photos of bills
• Report discrepancies immediately

The Tourist Guide Scam

Targets visitors in popular areas:

How It Works:

• Unofficial guides offer “special” tours
• They claim regular tours are cancelled
• They overcharge for basic information
• They may lead you to overpriced shops

Protect Yourself:

• Use official tourist information centers
• Book tours through reputable agencies
• Research standard prices beforehand
• Be wary of unsolicited tour offers
• Check guide credentials

Cultural Event Scams

The Ticket Scam

Common during popular events:

How It Works:

• Fake tickets are sold for real events
• Real tickets are sold multiple times
• Tickets are sold for non-existent events
• Scalpers sell overpriced or fake tickets

Avoid By:

• Buying only from official vendors
• Verifying ticket authenticity
• Avoiding street ticket sellers
• Checking event details independently
• Using official box offices or websites

Conclusion

While these scams may seem numerous, they’re easily avoided with awareness and common sense. Remember:

• If something seems too good to be true, it probably is
• Always verify credentials and documentation
• Trust your instincts if something feels wrong
• Use official services whenever possible
• Keep records of all transactions
• Report any scams to authorities

Most experiences in Mexico City are positive, and most people you’ll meet are honest. Being aware of these scams helps you navigate the city confidently while avoiding potential problems. Stay informed, stay alert, but don’t let awareness of scams prevent you from enjoying all the wonderful experiences Mexico City has to offer.