Newcomer Guide

Topic 12 of 14

Scams & staying sharp

The classics, the counter-moves, and how to report

Islamabad is one of Pakistan's safest cities, and most visitors experience nothing but kindness. The friction that does exist is mostly financial, not violent, and each classic has a counter-move. The full library with details lives in the Alerts section.

  1. 1Overcharging: know the fair range first (Fair Prices page), state it calmly, be ready to walk away.
  2. 2Fake 'guides' at Faisal Mosque and monuments: no official guide is required at either, a polite, firm "no thank you" and keep walking.
  3. 3Currency tricks: licensed exchanges only; count at the counter; keep the receipt.
  4. 4'Fake police' asking for wallets: real police don't take wallets. Ask for ID, offer to walk to the nearest police post, impostors evaporate.
If something happens: Tourist Police helpline, then log it in SafePak's Report section so the pattern becomes a warning for the next traveler.
Next upLaws & permits