Credit card fraud is a serious problem here. The most common method is for “skimmers,” retail clerks or waiters who are on the payroll of criminal syndicates, to collect credit card information when accepting payment for merchandise or meals. These “skimmers” pass on the information and unauthorized charges appear, sometimes many months later. The best way to avoid being victimized is to avoid businesses that are not affiliated with international companies or hotel chains. When shopping or dining elsewhere, pay cash. It is wise never to let your card be taken out of your sight. If a clerk attempts to do this, politely refuse and pay cash or demand to accompany the clerk. The most common places where this fraud occurs is in restaurants, retail establishments, recently established businesses, souvenir stalls and electronics shops in run-down shopping plazas. Cellular telephones are popular items for theft and should never be worn clipped to a belt.
