Los Angeles
The sprawling Southern California city and the center of the nation's film and television industry.
Police
911
Ambulance
911
Tourist Police
N/A
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The Fake Star Map Seller
Scammers approach tourists, particularly around the Hollywood Walk of Fame, offering to sell them 'exclusive' or 'up-to-date' maps to celebrity homes or star locations. These maps are often outdated, inaccurate, or simply photocopied junk, sold at an inflated price.
Never purchase maps or tours from unsolicited street vendors. Use a reputable tour company or a free, reliable map application on your smartphone.
The 'Aspiring Rapper' CD Hustle
Individuals, often young men, aggressively approach tourists in high-traffic areas, forcing a CD into their hands while claiming to be an 'aspiring artist.' Once the tourist touches the CD, the scammer demands money, sometimes becoming verbally abusive or intimidating until the tourist pays to avoid confrontation.
Keep your hands in your pockets or clasped in front of you. Firmly say 'No, thank you' and keep walking without breaking your stride or making eye contact. Do not accept or touch the item.
The Unlicensed LAX Ride-Share
Unlicensed drivers, often posing as Uber or Lyft drivers, wait near the official ride-share pick-up areas at LAX. They approach arriving passengers, offering a cheaper or faster ride. The ride is often unmetered, uninsured, and the driver may demand an exorbitant cash fare upon arrival, or take a circuitous route to inflate the price.
Only use the official LAX-approved taxi queue or book your ride through the official app. Confirm the license plate and driver's name match the app before getting into the vehicle.
The 'Free' Hug/Photo Character
Costumed characters (e.g., superheroes, movie figures) in tourist hotspots offer a 'free' photo or hug. After the picture is taken, they aggressively demand a large tip, sometimes $20 or more, and may block the tourist's path until they pay. This is common in Hollywood and Santa Monica.
Assume any costumed character who approaches you expects payment. If you want a photo, agree on a price beforehand, or simply decline and walk away quickly.
The Fake Charity Collector
Scammers, often carrying clipboards and wearing lanyards, approach tourists asking for signatures and donations for a fake or highly misleading charity (e.g., 'Deaf Children's Fund'). They use distraction techniques to pickpocket wallets or phones while the tourist is signing or reaching for money.
Never sign anything or donate to street solicitors. Keep your valuables secure and be wary of anyone who tries to get you to focus on a clipboard or petition.
The 'White Van Speaker' Scam
A person pulls up in a van, often with a sob story about being an audio installer with 'extra' high-end speakers they need to offload quickly for cheap. The speakers are actually cheap, low-quality knock-offs, worth a fraction of the 'discounted' price they are asking.
Never buy electronics from the back of a van or from an unauthorized seller. If a deal seems too good to be true, it is. Only purchase electronics from reputable retail stores.
The ATM Skimming/Shoulder Surfing
Criminals install 'skimming' devices on ATMs, particularly those in less-secure, high-tourist areas, to steal card data. They may also 'shoulder surf' to watch tourists enter their PIN, or use a small camera to record it. The data is then used to create cloned cards.
Only use ATMs inside banks or secure, well-lit areas. Always cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN, and check the card slot for any loose or unusual attachments.
The Rental Car 'Fix-It' Scam
Tourists driving rental cars are targeted. A scammer signals that something is wrong with their tire or car (e.g., a flat, a loose wheel). When the tourist pulls over, the scammer offers to 'help' but uses the distraction to steal valuables from the car's interior or trunk.
If signaled, drive to a well-lit, busy area or a police station before stopping. Keep all car doors locked and valuables out of sight. Call your rental company or roadside assistance immediately.
The 'Free' Comedy Show Ticket
Individuals hand out 'free' tickets or passes for a comedy show or club, promising a great night. The tickets are often for a venue with a mandatory, expensive two-drink minimum, and the show quality is poor. The goal is to lure tourists into paying for overpriced drinks.
Be skeptical of 'free' offers on the street. Always ask about mandatory minimum purchases or cover charges before entering a venue.
The 'Accidental' Spillage Distraction
A scammer 'accidentally' spills a drink or food on a tourist. While one person profusely apologizes and helps clean up the mess, a second accomplice pickpockets the tourist's wallet, phone, or bag, which is momentarily unattended due to the distraction.
Be immediately suspicious of any sudden physical contact or spillage. Secure your belongings first, then deal with the mess. Do not let strangers 'help' you clean up.
Safe Attractions
Hollywood Sign
An American landmark and cultural icon overlooking Hollywood.
Santa Monica Pier
A large double-jointed pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica.