The 13 Travel Scams Every American Tourist Falls For

The 13 Travel Scams Every American Tourist Falls For (Don’t Be Next)

Vasilija Mrakovic   Tue, December 2, 2025   Guessing Headlights

Every year, millions of Americans venture abroad with optimism, curiosity, and the belief that most people they meet will be helpful or at least harmless. And while that’s often true, seasoned travelers know that the world also has its fair share of tricksters who see tourists as easy paydays.

These scammers aren’t relying on brute force or intimidation, they specialize in subtlety, charm, and psychological pressure. Most scams don’t feel like scams when they start. Instead, they unfold as small acts of kindness, unexpected conveniences, or friendly gestures that slowly shift into uncomfortable, costly situations. By the time most travelers realize what’s happened, the money is gone, the scammer has vanished, and the embarrassment sets in.

Travel scams persist because they exploit universal human instincts: the desire to be polite, the fear of causing a scene, the assumption that strangers are telling the truth, and the belief that we understand a situation better than we actually do. Americans in particular are vulnerable because many come from service-oriented environments where helpers, attendants, and guides are common and expected.

When a stranger steps in saying, “Let me help” or “I know a shortcut,” it feels natural to accept, but in many destinations, this is the exact moment the trap is set. Recognizing these tactics in advance can help you navigate unfamiliar streets with confidence, avoid unnecessary stress, and keep your trip focused on what truly matters, experiencing the world, not funding its scammers.

The “Overly Helpful” Stranger

In major tourist hubs, an overly friendly local may approach you the moment you look confused, offering to help you buy metro tickets, decipher a map, or find a hotel. They present themselves as a good Samaritan who simply loves helping visitors.

Their real goal is much less noble: they want money, or access to your belongings, or a chance to guide you somewhere that benefits them financially. These scammers know that most Americans don’t want to seem rude by refusing help, especially when language barriers are involved, so they step in with confidence and urgency.

As soon as they start “helping,” they position themselves close to your wallet or phone, often leaning over you or taking control of your screen. Sometimes they push you through the process so quickly that you barely have time to think. And if they don’t pickpocket you directly, they may claim a tip afterward, insisting you owe them for their “service.” They may even guilt-trip you in public, making the situation uncomfortable enough that paying just feels easier.

The safest approach is simple: decline unsolicited help politely but firmly. If you truly need assistance, seek out uniformed staff, official kiosks, or other travelers rather than anyone approaching you first. Real helpers don’t chase down tourists, scammers do.

The Fake Taxi

Fake taxis thrive in chaotic transit zones: airports, train stations, ferry terminals, and crowded tourist attractions. Drivers approach you before you reach the official taxi queue, offering “cheap,” “fast,” or “private” rides. They may look legitimate, but once you’re inside, everything changes. There’s no meter, no receipt, and suddenly the price is triple the normal fare. Some drivers even demand payment upfront or refuse to let you exit without paying an inflated fee.

These operators target Americans because many assume ride prices abroad are similar to U.S. costs, so when a driver quotes $40 for a 10-minute ride, travelers don’t immediately question it. When people are jet-lagged or disoriented, they’re especially vulnerable to these pitches. And because the scammer approaches you assertively and confidently, it feels awkward to refuse, making the con even more effective.

The only safe rule is to avoid anyone who initiates contact. Use official taxis, rideshare apps, or taxi stands clearly marked by the city. A legitimate taxi never has to chase customers down.

The Friendship Bracelet Trap

This scam is common in Europe’s busiest plazas. A vendor approaches with a smile, speaking quickly and warmly, and before you can react, they’re tying a colorful bracelet around your wrist. They insist it’s free, a symbol of friendship, peace, or luck. But as soon as it’s tied securely, everything changes. They demand money, sometimes loudly or aggressively, and refuse to let you walk away.

Americans fall for this trick because it feels rude to pull away when someone reaches for your hand, especially when the person seems harmless or charming. The scam works because it involves physical contact; once the bracelet is tied, removing it is nearly impossible without scissors, making most tourists feel obligated to pay just to avoid confrontation. Some scammers even work in groups, surrounding the target to pressure them further.

To avoid this trap, keep your hands close to your body when approached by street vendors and walk with purpose. Never allow anyone to tie, place, or hand you anything you didn’t request, if it’s “free,” it’s not.

“Let Me Take Your Photo!”

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/13-travel-scams-every-american-183048923.html

Why America Is A Nation Of Miserable Millionaires Who Don't 'Feel Rich'

Why America Is A Nation Of Miserable Millionaires Who Don't 'Feel Rich'

Vawn Himmelsbach   Tue, December 2, 2025   Moneywise

So, you’ve hit that money milestone you were aiming for. The one where you thought you’d finally feel wealthy. But you don’t — and in fact you’re as stressed and depressed as ever. Why?

There’s no one number you can hit that upgrades you from middle-class to wealthy. Being rich is “a subjective experience,” says Charles Chaffin, co-founder of the Financial Psychology Institute (1).

And according to recent research, some people never get much happier when they reach financial security — no matter how much money they make.

Wealth And Well-Being Depend On Mindset

No matter how much money we have, some of us may never feel wealthy. For instance, only a third of millionaires (32%) consider themselves wealthy, according to a survey by Northwestern Mutual (2).

One reason is that people who become millionaires are often “money vigilant,” according to Chaffin. This means they’re constantly keeping track of how much money is moving in and out of their accounts — and they never feel truly secure with the amount they have (1).

Money vigilance is one of four money scripts people fall into, according to a framework created by psychologist Brad Klontz. He describes these scripts as unconscious sets of beliefs about money that shape our financial behavior. They’re typically formed in childhood and can be passed down from generation to generation. While the outcomes from adopting the script of money vigilance can be good — like being a disciplined saver — they can also prevent you from enjoying your wealth (3).

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/even-millionaires-dont-feel-wealthy-100702714.html

Half of Americans Are Worried About This Threat to Their Paychecks

Half of Americans Are Worried About This Threat to Their Paychecks: 4 Things You Can Do

Marc Guberti   Mon, December 1, 2025   GOBankingRates

One of the biggest fears Americans have is getting laid off. This “layoff anxiety” trend affects one-third of Americans, according to Clarify Capital. Anxiety is higher among remote workers, with 40% of them worrying about losing their jobs compared to 20% of in-office workers.

It has gotten to the point where 69% of Americans would be happy to stay in the same job and avoid career growth if it led to more job security. The PNC 2025 Financial Wellness in the Workplace Report found that 67% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck, so there isn’t much financial wiggle room in the event of a layoff.

Although many people dread getting laid off, it’s a scenario that you should prepare for in case it happens. These are some of the ways you can prepare for that scenario, minimize its impact on your finances and rebound quickly.

Create an Emergency Savings Account

Developing good financial discipline is critical for reducing your career stress and feeling more confident about challenges that come your way. Having more money in the bank can give you peace of mind and more time to get back on your feet if you get laid off.

Putting money into an emergency savings account each month is a great starting point. Ideally, this fund should cover six to 12 months of your living expenses. Accelerating your emergency savings account’s growth will require cutting your expenses.

While you don’t want to get rid of necessary expenses, you may find opportunities to trim costs if you have never created a budget. Unused subscriptions and impulsive purchases are good places to start if you want to reduce costs without downgrading your lifestyle.

Develop New Skills

The more skills you develop, the more desirable you are in the marketplace. Working on high-income skills like mastering AI tools each weekend can introduce you to more job opportunities. Then, as you apply for jobs, you will feel more in control, since you won’t feel like all of your income depends on one employer.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/half-americans-worried-threat-paychecks-155505788.html

Don't Put These 5 Assets In A Living Trust

Don't Put These 5 Assets In A Living Trust. How To Help Your Kids Bypass Probate When You Die

Moneywise   Mon, December 1, 2025

If you will, allow us to present the hypothetical case of Pete Moneywise, a married, 78-year-old father of three who wants to get his financial affairs in order before his passing.

Though he exists only within the confines of this article, his situation reflects what countless people of retirement age face as they draft their wills and create their trusts.

“I hate probate,” Pete tells us in an exclusive interview. (What else did you expect? We created him.) “I went through it when my father died, and my family spent the next year talking to lawyers, trying to get things squared away.”

He shares how the probate process caused tension between his siblings. He also harbored frustration over one unanswerable question: “Why didn’t Dad create a living trust? It would’ve made things so much simpler.”

Credit Pete for now following his own advice. He has set up a living trust. Now, he must decide what, if anything, to leave out of it. He has done the homework for you: Here are five things to consider as you structure your living trust.

Probate explained

Back to living trusts and the reasons they’re better than a long and drawn-out probate process.

Unfortunately, many folks don’t even know what “probate” means until they’re in the thick of it.

Sometimes, not always, when a person dies — even if they left a will — a legal process called probate ensues. Probate is required to validate the will, name an executor to administer the estate if there isn’t one, pay off liabilities, and then distribute the remaining assets to heirs.

The process can take years, requiring piles of paperwork and ongoing legal fees.

For instance, after Ozzy Osbourne passed away in July, reports began surfacing that his $220 million estate would face hefty inheritance taxes and a lengthy probate process. According to estate planning attorney Gideon Alper at Alper Law, “If Ozzy’s assets were left in trust, his family could inherit faster and privately.”

In Pete’s case, a trust could have helped his family avoid probate, protect their privacy, and minimize estate taxes when his father died. A trust is a document that allows you to keep control of your money and property and designate who receives it once you die.

Consider life insurance for added peace of mind

Before we get into living trusts, it’s worth looking at an even simpler way to help your children live more comfortably after you pass.

TO READ MORE:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/dont-put-5-assets-living-131500131.html

What Most People Don’t Know About Selling Gold For Cash

What Most People Don’t Know About Selling Gold For Cash

The more you know, the better your gold payout — and the less likely you’ll fall for lowball offers or hidden fees.

Wealthy Single Mommy  Wed, October 29, 2025

Gold price keep hitting record highs — could not be a better time to sell.

Selling gold sounds simple: take your jewelry or coins to a buyer and walk out with cash. But like most “easy money” situations, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Gold buying is one of those industries where small bits of knowledge can make a big difference. The more you know, the better your payout — and the less likely you’ll fall for lowball offers or hidden fees.

1. The price is negotiable

Don’t accept the first offer you hear. Most gold buyers start low — often 20–40% under what they’re willing to pay. Ask, “Is that your best price?” and mention you’re getting multiple quotes. Just like in any negotiation, confidence pays — literally. Be prepared to walk away.

2. The “spot price” isn’t what you’ll get

The gold price you see on financial websites — known as the spot price — is for pure 24K gold in bulk. Most jewelry is 10K to 18K, meaning it’s mixed with other metals. You’ll only be paid for the percentage of gold in your piece.

3. Weight and purity determine your payout

Reputable buyers test your items using acid or X-ray equipment. Always watch the test and ask for the results in writing. Some unscrupulous buyers will “downgrade” purity to pay less.

If you’re unsure about what you have, get a quick appraisal from a local jeweler before you sell.

4. Gold teeth and dental crowns have real value

Yes — dental gold is typically 16K to 22K and can be sold for scrap. Refiners or specialized buyers will pay by weight, though they may deduct a small amount for extraction. A tooth can fetch $300 and a bridge $1,200.

5. Electronics contain gold, too

Old circuit boards, phones, and CPUs have trace amounts of gold. It’s not worth much in small batches, but if you have bulk electronics — especially old computer parts — you may have hidden cash sitting in storage.

6. What you’ll get from gold changes every day

Before heading out, check the live gold price per gram at trusted sites like Kitco or JM Bullion. Knowing the market rate keeps you from being shortchanged.

7. Gold in your ring is probably worth more than the diamond

Most gold and jewelry buyers are only interested in diamond of .3 carat weight or more and even larger diamonds have dramatically decreased in value in recent years. Sometimes even smaller diamonds of very high quality can bring in less than $50.

Many people are surprised to learn that while resale value of lab-grown diamonds or cubic zirconia is $0 or close, the gold setting is always valuable — especially now.

8. Gold in jewelry is probably worth more than the gemstone

Unless your ring or necklace has an unusually large and high-quality ruby, sapphire, emerald or other gemstone, it probably worthless — no matter how much you paid for it, or how much you love it. However, the gold setting is absolutely worth its weight in gold.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/creators/lifestyle/story/what-most-people-dont-know-about-selling-gold-for-cash-162602378.html

The Problem With Supporting Adult Children

The Problem With Supporting Adult Children

Maurie Backman   Mon, December 1, 2025  Moneywise

My adult son lives with me and has a Wal-Mart job. I asked him for rent but he refuses to help. How do I resolve this?

Forget the concept of 'childhood home'. For a growing number of adult children, the place they grew up is their adulthood home, too.

Rohan Shah, an assistant professor of economics at the University of Mississippi, reports in The Conversation that in just 10 years, 1.5 million more young Americans (34 and under) chose to live at home (1).

According to the Pew Research Center, the trend is especially concentrated in California, Texas and Florida.

Shaw says the housing crisis is definitely contributing to the phenomenon, as young people struggle to pay rent let alone buy a home.

More adult sons live at home than daughters (20% versus 15%, respectively) (2). Maybe it’s hard to turn down mom’s cooking and laundry.

The set-up can be win-win, allowing parents to help their kids save a lot of money. According to Rent Cafe, median rent across the U.S. hit $1,743 this November (3).

So if you’re asking your adult son for $650 a month rent, you’re offering a great deal he shouldn’t refuse.

After all, you’re not only taking care of his financial security, but you need to focus on your own long-term security by saving more for retirement.

So if your son refuses to pay you rent, it’s time to have a serious talk and set some boundaries and expectations.

The Problem With Supporting Adult Children

Unfortunately, this is a common problem. A 2024 survey from Savings.com found that 61% of adult children who live at home contribute $0 to household expenses (4).

Meanwhile, the same survey found that 47% of parents support grown children financially, to the tune of $1,384 per child per month.

The math is troubling, as these parents are only setting aside $609 a month in retirement savings, less than half what they’re investing in their adult kids.

No surprise then, that a U.S. Bank survey found that almost 25% of parents worry their children will depend on them financially for years to come (5).

To be fair, young adults don't have it easy. Inflation spiked in recent years, and many students graduate college with piles of debt.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/adult-son-lives-wal-mart-140000703.html

7 Telltale Signs You’re Growing Wealth Like a Millionaire

7 Telltale Signs You’re Growing Wealth Like a Millionaire

Caitlyn Moorhead   Tue, November 25, 2025   GOBankingRates

If someone is a millionaire, there are usually signs beyond the number in their bank account. If you are trying to get on the wealth-building path to reach millionaire status, you may need to adopt habits, values and financial strategies that represent true wealth.

Moving from aspiring to having actual riches takes noticeable shifts in your behavior around money management, especially when it comes to your spending and savings habits. Identifying these ways to edit is important because they show not just where financial success is possible but also a mindset that’s focused on lasting wealth creation.

Simply put, if you’re looking for clues on how to be rich, you might want to do as a millionaire does. Here are some key signs you are making the financial decisions they would.

You’re Diversifying Your Portfolio

A diversified investment portfolio is a hallmark of a millionaire. This portfolio typically extends beyond stocks and bonds, toward encompassing real estate, business ventures and perhaps alternative investments like art or private equity.

When you are saving for retirement or a big-ticket item, diversification isn’t a random act of finance. It’s a strategic approach to spread risk and maximize returns by avoiding putting all of your nest eggs in one basket.

You Strategize Your Financial Planning

Another key sign of a millionaire is making strategic financial planning and investment decisions. Your goal isn’t just about saving money but rather creating a comprehensive roadmap for earning, saving, investing and spending. Millionaires understand that a well-thought-out financial strategy is crucial for wealth accumulation and preservation.

You Have an Emergency Fund

Robust savings and substantial emergency funds are common among millionaires. They understand the importance of having a safety net that should have at least three to six months’ worth of expenses in it to cover you should something unexpected happen such as medical bills or job loss.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/7-key-signs-millionaire-status-130008582.html

What To Do When You're Named Executor

What To Do When You're Named Executor

Maurie Backman  mSun, November 23, 2025  Moneywise

My aunt died and I’m shocked to learn I have to settle her estate. What to do when you're named executor

Most people need time to process things when a family member dies. But if you’ve been named executor in their will, you have to start processing immediately.

After all, you’re now legally responsible for the administration of their Estate.

As executor (alternatively known as personal representative or administrator depending on your state), you must ensure your relative’s finances are settled and their final wishes respected.

The weight of all that may trigger emotions besides grief. For example, shock — especially if your late relative named you the executor of their will without your prior knowledge.

You may feel overwhelmed and even resentful.

You can even refuse to take on the role, but if your relative named you because they trusted you above everyone else, you may feel obliged (1).

If you find yourself in this position, it’s a good idea to take a beat to sort out what you are and are not obliged to do.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of what this role entails (2).

The First Steps In The Probate Process

First, you need to obtain a copy of your relative's death certificate, which you can get from the funeral home or the county or state where their death occurred

If you don’t have a copy of the will, obtain one, read it thoroughly and file it in probate court in the county where your relative lived. Notify all beneficiaries of the will’s contents.

It’s common to hire an attorney to handle probate, which is the process of proving a will’s validity in court. If you do hire a lawyer, their legal costs will be covered by proceeds from the estate.

Probate is essential. You cannot distribute assets from your family member’s estate until the probate process is completed and you’ve settled all debts related to the estate.

This can be a lengthy and complex process, so it’s important to manage beneficiaries’ expectations. If conflicts break out, do your best to mediate the disagreements.

Settling A Late Relative’s Finances

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/aunt-died-m-shocked-learn-123000514.html

The ‘Biggest Crash In History’ Is Starting, How To Prepare Now

The ‘Biggest Crash In History’ Is Starting, How To Prepare Now

Jing Pan  Sat, November 29, 2025   Moneywise

Robert Kiyosaki Warns The ‘Biggest Crash In History’ Is Starting, Says Millions To ‘Lose Everything.’ How To Prepare Now

As markets push into their final stretch of 2025, “Rich Dad Poor Dad” author Robert Kiyosaki has issued a chilling new warning.  “BIGGEST CRASH IN HISTORY STARTING,” he wrote in a recent post on X (1).

According to Kiyosaki, this is the very downturn he’s been predicting for more than a decade — and he believes the fallout will be severe.

“In 2013 I published RICH DADs PROPHECY predicting the biggest crash in history was coming. Unfortunately that crash has arrived. It’s not just the US. Europe and Asia are crashing. AI will wipe out jobs and when jobs crash office and residential real estate crashes.”

At first glance, his warning may seem at odds with the U.S. stock market, where the S&P 500 and Nasdaq remain near record highs. But concerns about AI-driven job losses are widespread — and layoffs continue to dominate headlines (2).

The silver lining, according to Kiyosaki?

He believes this environment could create enormous opportunities for those who prepare.

“While millions will lose everything…. if you are prepared…this crash will make you richer,” he wrote.

So how would Kiyosaki prepare?

“Time to buy more gold, silver, Bitcoin and Ethereum,” he said.

Let’s take a closer look at these assets.

Precious metals

Kiyosaki has never been shy about his love for gold and silver — and in moments of crisis, he turns to them with even more conviction. His stance is clear: “I’m not buying gold because I like gold, I’m buying gold because I don’t trust the Fed,” he said in an interview back in 2021 (3).

Gold and silver have long been viewed as safe-haven assets. Unlike fiat currencies, they can’t be printed at will by central banks and their value isn’t tied to any single country or economy. That scarcity, combined with their history as a store of value, is why investors often flock to the metals during periods of inflation, economic turmoil or geopolitical instability — pushing prices higher.

This time, he’s putting special emphasis on silver.  “Silver is the best and the safest. Silver is $50 today. I predict silver will hit $70 soon and possibly $200 in 2026,” he wrote.

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/robert-kiyosaki-warns-biggest-crash-112900040.html

5 Things In Your Home That Could Be Worth A Fortune By 2030

Finance guru reveals 5 Things In Your Home That Could Be Worth A Fortune By 2030

Jill Schildhouse     Fri, October 10, 2025

Before you toss out that old tech or childhood toy, an investment pro says these everyday items could be worth thousands within the decade.

An investment expert is urging Americans to dig through their attics and garages—because some of what’s gathering dust could fund their retirement by 2030.

Adam Koprucki, founder of Real World Investor, says many people are unknowingly sitting on collectibles that are appreciating faster than traditional investments. “Most people throw away items that could pay for their retirement in just a few years,” he says. “The truth is, certain everyday objects sitting in your home might be worth more than your stock portfolio by 2030.”

Koprucki points to vintage tech, pop-culture collectibles, and nostalgia-fueled memorabilia as the next frontier for investors. The U.S. collectibles market hit $62 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $83.7 billion by 2030, according to data from Grand View Research.

1. Vintage tech

First-generation Apple products are leading the charge. “Original Apple products continue their rise in popularity among collectors,” Koprucki explained. “The first iPhone, released in 2007 for $499, now sells for more than $20,000 sealed in its box—and could easily surpass $50,000 by 2030.”

2. Toys, comics, and trading cards

From Star Wars action figures to Pokémon cards, nostalgia remains a gold mine. Koprucki says sealed Transformers toys from the 1980s can reach $20,000, while first-edition Harry Potter books that once cost under $20 now fetch over $50,000. Condition is everything—mint items in original packaging can be worth ten times more than used versions.

3. Vintage video games

TO READ MORE:  https://creators.yahoo.com/lifestyle/story/finance-guru-reveals-5-things-in-your-home-that-could-be-worth-a-fortune-by-2030-211315832.html

5 Everyday Money Habits That Quietly Drain Middle-Class Wealth

5 Everyday Money Habits That Quietly Drain Middle-Class Wealth

Cindy Lamothe   Tue, November 25, 2025  GOBankingRates

We all know money can slip through our fingers — but sometimes it’s not flashy splurges or big mistakes that do the damage.

It’s the little, everyday habits that quietly chip away at your hard-earned wealth. If you’ve ever wondered why your bank account doesn’t quite grow despite steady paychecks, you’re not alone.

 “Increasing prices have led to the survival debt of most Americans,” said Jeffrey Hensel, broker associate at North Coast Financial. “The change is usually nuanced to the middle class, and it starts with small changes in their lifestyle, which gradually escalate into huge financial burdens.”

Let’s take a closer look at some common money habits that could be holding back your financial growth — and what to do about them.

Credit Card Debt

According to Olivier Wagner, founder and CEO of 1040 Abroad, credit cards can be a very efficient help in managing one’s flow of income and obtaining needed benefits but they can also do much to ruin one’s wealth if they are not used with care.

His recommendation? Always pay your bill in full from month to month so as to escape from interest.

“Always charge your purchases to your credit cards that you can pay long before the bill comes due,” Wagner advised.

Stay on Top of Subscriptions

“Most people have a problem with not paying attention to their bank statements, because the small charges are not worth looking up individually,” said Wagner.

As a result, he said all together they will amount to hundreds and thousands of dollars over the course of a year. Wagner recommended regularly checking your bank statements to cancel those subscriptions that you do incur charges for.

Checking into this periodically will free up hundreds of dollars a year for you to allocate for investment purposes for you or funds to put into savings.

Avoid Impulse Purchases

TO READ MORE:  https://www.yahoo.com/finance/news/5-everyday-money-habits-quietly-165505276.html