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Tourist scams and rip-offs in New York City, United States: how to avoid them
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New York City is generally honest for tourists but busy and fast-paced, with petty theft and a few classic street scams around landmarks. The biggest watch-outs are unlicensed taxi drivers and ticket-scalping near major attractions. Overall safe if you stay alert and use official transport and vendors.
Updated September 2026
Common scams in New York City, United States and how to avoid them
1. Unlicensed drivers at airports
How it works: Individuals approach arriving passengers inside or just outside the terminal, offering rides at inflated flat rates. They are not licensed and may not use a meter or proper fare structure.
How to avoid it: Use only the official yellow taxi stand or licensed ride-hailing pickup zones. Confirm the flat $52 JFK-to-Manhattan fare before boarding.
2. CD or 'demo' handoff scam
How it works: A person hands you a CD or mixtape, claims it's a free demo, then demands money once you take it. Pressure and intimidation escalate if you refuse.
How to avoid it: Do not make eye contact, take items from, or engage with street peddlers. Keep walking and say no firmly.
3. The 'found ring' or gold scam
How it works: Someone picks up a ring or chain nearby, claims it is gold, and offers to sell it cheap. It is costume jewelry worth pennies.
How to avoid it: Ignore and keep walking. Never stop to inspect or purchase such items from strangers.
4. Scalped tickets at attractions
How it works: Individuals sell 'discounted' or 'exclusive' tickets to Broadway shows, the Statue of Liberty, or the Empire State Building. Tickets may be fake, overpriced, or already used.
How to avoid it: Buy only from official box offices or authorized platforms like the TKTS booth for shows. Verify attraction tickets come from the official site or operator.
5. Three-card monte or shell game
How it works: A group runs a card or cup game on sidewalks, with one player apparently winning repeatedly. The game is rigged and accomplices pressure you to join.
How to avoid it: Never play. The game operators and accomplices will take your cash and disappear. Walk away immediately.
6. Tourist-menu price inflation
How it works: Some eateries in high-traffic tourist zones quote one price verbally or on a display board, then present a higher bill, or add unlisted service charges or fees.
How to avoid it: Confirm prices before ordering, ask for a printed menu with prices, and review the bill line by line. Question any unexplained charge.
Official tickets for the top sights in New York City, United States
Skip street sellers: book official tickets and tours with free cancellation.
From the airport to the city centre
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Fair taxi price (official, daytime): $52 (€46). Yellow taxi fare from JFK to Manhattan is a flat $52 plus tolls and tip. Use the official taxi stand outside each terminal. Refuse any driver soliciting inside the terminal or offering a "deal".
Best alternative: AirTrain JFK to Jamaica or Howard Beach station, then connecting subway or LIRR ($10.75 (€9.59), about 60 min)
Public transport: tickets, validation and fines
- Single ticket
- $2.90 (€2.59) (Single subway or bus ride with OMNY tap or a MetroCard single ride)
- Validation rules
- Tap your contactless bank card or phone on the OMNY reader at the turnstile to enter. MetroCard must be swiped at the same style reader. No exit tap needed. If you enter without paying, you face a fine.
- Fine without a valid ticket
- $100 (€89.21). Civil penalty of $100 for fare evasion on subway or bus, issued on the spot by transit police or inspectors.
- Paying by card
- Contactless bank cards and mobile wallets work directly on OMNY readers. Fares cap at $34 after 12 paid rides in a 7-day period, making it unlimited after that.
Tipping and service charges
Tipping: Tipping is expected: 15-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and a few dollars per bag for porters and hotel staff. Bartenders typically get $1-2 per drink.
Cover and service charges: No cover or bread charge is standard. Many diners include an automatic 18-20% gratuity for parties of 6 or more; check your bill before adding extra tip. Menu prices are shown without tax, so expect the total to be higher than listed.
Cards, ATMs and currency exchange
Always choose to be charged in USD and decline dynamic currency conversion at ATMs and card terminals. Prefer bank-attached ATMs over standalone machines, which often charge higher fees. Some independent ATMs in tourist areas charge $3-5 plus your bank's fee.
Areas where extra care is advised
- Midtown and Times Square: Keep bags zipped and phones secured in crowded areas, especially around Times Square and subway stations, where pickpocketing and distraction scams are common.
- Subway late night: After midnight, wait in the designated waiting areas near the token booth or camera zones on platforms, and keep belongings close.
Emergency number
911
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Frequently Asked Questions about New York City, United States
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Based on widely reported traveler experiences and official advice. Prices are approximate and change; check current fares on arrival. Updated September 2026.