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