New York City
The most populous city in the United States, a global hub of finance and culture.
Police
911
Ambulance
911
Tourist Police
N/A
Risk Map & Attractions
Common Scams
The Fake Monk Blessing
A person dressed as a monk will approach you and offer a 'blessing' or a small trinket, like a bracelet. Once you accept, they become aggressive and demand a donation, often showing a booklet with previous high 'donations' to pressure you.
Politely decline any unsolicited offers. If they persist, walk away. Real monks do not solicit donations in this manner.
The CD Hustle
An aspiring 'artist' will approach you and hand you their 'free' mixtape. They may ask for your name to sign it, making it feel like a personal gift. As soon as you take the CD, they will demand a 'tip' or 'donation' for their music, often becoming aggressive if you refuse.
Do not accept unsolicited items from strangers on the street. A simple 'no, thank you' and continuing to walk is the best approach.
Costumed Character Photo Fee
People in costumes of popular characters will pose for photos with tourists, especially families with children. After the photo is taken, they will demand a high tip, sometimes per person in the photo, and can become aggressive if the amount is not to their liking.
If you want a photo, negotiate the price beforehand. If you did not solicit the photo, you are not obligated to pay. Be firm and walk away.
Pedicab Rip-off
Pedicab drivers will offer a ride for what seems like a reasonable price, but will have hidden fees. They might charge per minute, per person, or add on other surprise charges at the end of the ride, resulting in an exorbitant fare.
Always confirm the total price for the entire group before getting into the pedicab. Or better yet, use official taxis, ride-sharing apps, or the subway.
Fake Staten Island Ferry Tickets
Scammers will try to sell you tickets for the Staten Island Ferry, which is a free service. They may also try to upsell you to an overpriced harbor cruise.
Know that the Staten Island Ferry is free. Ignore anyone trying to sell you tickets and head directly to the Whitehall Terminal.
The 'Broken' Taxi Credit Card Machine
A taxi driver will claim their credit card machine is broken at the end of your ride, forcing you to pay in cash. This can be a way to avoid reporting income or to take you to an ATM of their choice which may have high fees or a skimmer.
Before getting into a taxi, confirm that the credit card machine is working. If they claim it's broken at the end, insist on paying by card or ask to be driven to a police station.
The 'Spill' and 'Helpful' Stranger
Someone will 'accidentally' spill something on you. While you are distracted, an accomplice will pickpocket you. Or, a 'helpful' stranger will offer to help you clean up, and pickpocket you in the process.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. If someone spills something on you, be wary of their intentions and keep your valuables secure.
The Sob Story
Someone will approach you with a sad story about needing money for a train ticket, a meal, or to get home. They are often very convincing and target tourists' sympathy.
While it's natural to want to help, it's best to politely decline and walk away. If you want to help the homeless, donate to a reputable charity.
Unofficial Tour Guides
People will approach you near major landmarks and offer to give you a 'special' tour. These tours are often overpriced, inaccurate, and the 'guides' are not licensed.
Book tours through reputable companies online or at official tourism offices. Do not accept unsolicited tour offers on the street.
Street Three-Card Monte
A classic street hustle where a dealer manipulates three cards and bets you can't find the 'money card'. It's a game of sleight of hand, and the dealer's accomplices in the crowd will lure you in by pretending to win.
Do not play any street gambling games. They are all designed for you to lose.
Safe Attractions
Statue of Liberty
A colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island.
Central Park
An urban park in New York City located between the Upper West and Upper East Sides of Manhattan.