New York City is a busy, vibrant place, and like any major destination, there are a few common scams and tricks to watch out for. Most are harmless if you know what to expect — and being aware means you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
CD Sellers in Times Square – Someone hands you a “free” CD, then pressures you for money.
Costumed Characters – Dressed-up characters in Times Square may pose for photos, then suddenly demand very high tips. Some even bring over a second person to pressure you. Always agree on a price upfront — or skip it altogether.
Bracelet / “Friendship” Gift Scam – Someone ties a bracelet on your wrist, then insists you pay for it.
Fake Petition Collectors – Asking you to sign something, then pushing for a “donation.”
Times Square Tickets – Street sellers offering cheap Broadway tickets are almost always scams. Buy only from official box offices or trusted sites.
Madison Square Garden Tickets – Counterfeits are common. Only buy from the MSG Box Office at 4 Penn Plaza (7th Ave between 31st & 33rd St) or official sellers like Ticketmaster.
Statue of Liberty Scams – The only authorized provider for Statue of Liberty tickets is Statue City Cruises. Buy tickets at Castle Clinton in Battery Park or online in advance.
Street sellers may claim “your tour is canceled,” “boats are sold out,” or “you missed your ferry.” Their goal is to sell tickets for unofficial cruises that do not stop at Liberty Island or Ellis Island.
Food Trucks & Ice Cream Trucks – Prices aren’t always posted (or the signs are tiny). Always ask before ordering — some charge $8–$10 for a simple cone.
Unlicensed Cabs / Fake Ubers – Ignore anyone offering rides at airports or tourist areas. Use only official yellow cabs or apps like Uber/Lyft.
Overpriced Carriage or Pedicab Rides – Some drivers don’t post rates clearly and then overcharge at the end. Always confirm the price before your ride.
“Help with Your Luggage” – At airports or train stations, unofficial helpers may grab your bag and demand a tip.
ATM Skimmers – Use ATMs inside banks, not free-standing machines.
Fake Tour Guides – Outside attractions, unlicensed sellers may offer cheap “tours.” Stick to licensed guides.
Never assume vehicles will stop. Don’t expect drivers, bikes, or even pedicabs to yield — many don’t. Cars sometimes run red lights, and bikes, delivery scooters, or skateboarders can come from all directions. Always look both ways, and then look again, before crossing.
Keep your head up. Confidence is key — scammers and pickpockets target people who look distracted.
Stand on the sidewalk. Don’t wait in the street for a taxi, rideshare, or photos.
Use official services. Whether it’s cabs, ferries, tours, or tickets, stick to official vendors and avoid street sellers.
Protect your belongings. Keep wallets and phones in front pockets or zipped bags, especially in crowded areas like Times Square or subway stations.
At night, stay in well-lit areas and use main streets instead of dark side streets.
Trust your instincts. If something feels pushy or “off,” walk away.
This information is provided for travel awareness only. Scams, safety conditions, and city policies may change without notice. We are not affiliated with any third-party vendors, services, or sellers mentioned above and cannot take responsibility for their actions.