Terms and Conditions
1) General
1a- (In its current version) Tourist Scams aims to be an updated and comprehensive collection of scams, frauds, and traps targeting tourists and travelers worldwide. Whenever possible, it also provides advice on how to avoid and handle such situations.
1b- All of our content, especially articles and/or sections of them regarding the topic “how to avoid it” (see also “2) content, sources, resources, fact checking and editorial choices”) should not be interpreted as absolute truths, given the nature of the project (see also 1d-) and the chaotic variables involved in human interactions. Instead, they should be considered as advices (based on the authors’ experiences, synthesis of consulted sources, or common sense) for recognizing, avoiding or dealing with these encounters.
1c- Despite the sometimes-light-hearted tone of the content, some described situations could unexpectedly evolve and pose a serious threat. We explicitly advise against interacting with or antagonizing the uncovered or recognized scammers and, in case of sighting, we recommend avoiding any interaction and contacting local authorities or, in special situations, consular offices of your country.
1d- Currently, the project is in a raw and semi-amateur form. The available resources and time for content creation are limited (see also “2) content, sources, resources, fact checking and editorial choices”). Nonetheless, the editorial team is committed to upholding the set goals and values (also see About).
1e- In this guide, we will often use terms like Fraud, Scam, Trap, etc., almost interchangeably. We are aware of the differences between these terms, especially from a legal perspective in various countries. However, considering the nature of our work and the target audience, we have chosen to embrace the colloquial meaning of these terms. In general, we use these terms to refer to activities, organizations, actions, or schemes aimed at harming, mostly but not exclusively, tourists or travelers through various methodologies, techniques, and tactics. Regardless of whether they are considered legal or acceptable in some countries.
2) Content, sources, resources, fact checking, and editorial choices
2a- In addition to the direct experience of the authors and collaborators, the Tourist Scams editorial team relies on the web as a main source of information and fact checking. Our sources are (non-exhaustive list): official organizations and governmental websites from around the world, travel blogs and magazines, content shared on major social media platforms, and submissions received from our audience.
2b- Due to our limits, fact checking is generally, but not exclusively, conducted by cross-checking multiple sources deemed reliable. Some exceptions may apply; for example, persistent but unconfirmed rumors will still be included in the guide but will be flagged in some way (usually in the Extras and Thoughts section).
2c- The images used in articles and posts fall into two categories:
- I) Explanatory images, photos, and illustrations: These are mostly sourced from online images stocks, AI generators, or original drawings made by collaborators. They have purely explanatory and educational value and rarely depict the actual content they are associated with. The subjects depicted are either real actors and models or generated by AI.
- II) Frames and photos of real scams: Whenever possible, we will try to provide readers with images of real situations and subjects obtained from the web or captured by our collaborators or authors.
3) Use and storage of data and information from received emails
3a- Reports/advices/corrections: We will not record sender’s data in any way but will copy the subject and content of the email for the purpose of documenting feedback and for content creation (see also 2) Content, sources, resources, fact checking and editorial choices). All emails received in the dedicated mailbox will be deleted within 60 days after the first reading. Special situations may be exempt (such as extended collaborations with travelers for reporting, explicit authorization from the sender, or unforeseen difficulties, etc.).
3b- Legal and commercial: the Tourist Scams Team reserves the right to retain the emails sent to the mailboxes dedicated to legal and commercial communications and to copy them on physical data storage.
4) Anti-Hate
4a- Educational Purpose: The content on our website solely aims to educate readers about recognizing scamming schemes and fraudulent behaviours and providing useful information regarding travel safety. It is not intended to denigrate or defame any nation, government, company, organization, or association.
4b- Respect and Tolerance: Our website promotes respect, tolerance, and inclusion. We have no intention of demonizing any destination or offending anyone. We are mindful of cultural and individual diversity and nuances worldwide, and we encourage our readers to maintain an open-minded approach during their travels.
4c- Non-Incitement of Hate: Under no circumstances does our work aim to incite hatred towards specific individuals, groups, or communities. We are committed to providing objective information and adopting a balanced approach when addressing scams against travelers. We encourage constructive dialogue and mutual respect among our readers.
4d- User Responsibility: Users of our website are responsible for their actions and comments. We do not assume liability for user-generated comments or opinions within the context of our website. We reserve the right to remove any content that is defamatory, offensive, or promotes hate, in accordance with our policies.
4e- Reporting Inappropriate Content: We welcome user comments and reports regarding inappropriate content found on our website. If you come across material that you believe to be defamatory, offensive, or promoting hate, we kindly request you to contact us immediately so that we can assess the situation and take appropriate measures.
4f- Community Promotion: We are committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful community on our website. We encourage users to share their experiences, advice, and suggestions constructively while respecting others’ opinions. We reserve the right to moderate comments and take necessary measures to maintain a safe and collaborative environment.
5) Intellectual Property of Content
5a- Images: Licenses for images obtained from online stock sources are managed by the respective providers. For works created by our collaborators and authors, ownership rights may or may not belong to Tourist Scams based on the agreements in place. All the other images are generally licensed under CC0, CC BY, or CC BY-SA and belong to their respective authors.
5b- General Rule: The following does not apply to articles produced through external collaboration and any elements for which Tourist Scams does not hold rights but only authorization to use. All Tourist Scams-owned content (including images) can be freely reproduced and quoted with the sole obligation of proper source citation (“Tourist Scams” or “touristscams.it”).
5c- Administrators will evaluate the best possible civil or legal response on a case-by-case basis for any disputes.
6) Sponsored Content
Our website may contain sponsored content written by us, the Tourist Scams team, promoting an agency or product. This sponsored content may include articles, reviews, or promotions related to services or products relevant to the blog’s theme, including those pertaining to travel and traveler safety.
6a- Identification of Sponsored Content: Sponsored content written by us will be clearly labeled as “Sponsored Content” or with another conspicuous label indicating its sponsored nature. Additionally, we might provide a clear notice at the beginning or end of the sponsored content to inform readers that it is a promotional article.
6b- Responsibility of Sponsored Content: We are committed to providing accurate and objective information in the sponsored content written by us. However, readers should be aware that such content may be influenced by the promotional nature of the sponsorship. We will research to ensure that sponsored content is useful and relevant to our readers while maintaining transparency about our involvement with the sponsored agency or product.
6c- Independence and Objectivity: Despite the presence of sponsored content, we are dedicated to maintaining editorial independence and objectivity when providing information about scams against travelers. We will always deliver reviews, advice, and articles based on our own assessments and objective research.
We reserve the right to refuse or discontinue the publication of sponsored content written by us that does not meet our editorial standards or that may be harmful or misleading to our readers. We will do our best to ensure that sponsored content is appropriate and relevant to our audience.
6d- User Engagement: We welcome user comments and reports regarding sponsored content on our website. If you notice sponsored content that you find inappropriate or violates our guidelines, we kindly request you to contact us immediately so that we can assess the matter.
6e- Legal Responsibility: We provide this information on sponsored content policy to offer transparency and clarity to our site’s users. However, we are not responsible for the accuracy, adequacy, or currency of sponsored content provided by third parties or written by ourselves.
7) Liability and Third-Party Content
7a- Considering points 1), 2), and 4), Tourist Scams and its Team shall not be held responsible for the use that users make of their content. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the provided information and decline any responsibility for errors or omissions in the content.
7b- Limitation of Liability: Under no circumstances shall we be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, or incidental damages arising from the use or inability to use our website.
7c- Third-Party Content: Our website may contain links or references to third-party websites, products, or services that we do not control. We are not responsible for the accuracy, legality, security, or suitability of such websites or their content. Accessing and using such websites is at your own risk and discretion.
7d- Updates and Modifications: We reserve the right to make changes, updates, or improvements to our website and its content at any time without notice. We are not obligated to keep the website up to date or correct any errors or omissions.
8) Privacy and Cookie Policy
At Tourist Scams, we respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal data. This Privacy and Cookie Policy will inform you about how we collect and use your personal data when you visit our website, and about your privacy rights.
8a- Cookies: A cookie is a small file of letters and numbers that we store on your browser or the hard drive of your computer if you agree. Cookies contain information that is transferred to your computer’s hard drive.
We use cookies to improve our website and to deliver a better and more personalized service. Some of the cookies we use are essential for the site to operate.
In addition to our own cookies, we may also use various third-party cookies to report usage statistics of the service, deliver advertisements on and through the service, and so on.
Please note that third parties (including, for example, advertising networks and providers of external services like web traffic analysis services) may also use cookies, over which we have no control. These cookies are likely to be analytical/performance cookies or targeting cookies.
8b- Cookie Control: We have a cookie control system on our website to allow you to manage your cookie preferences. When you visit our website for the first time, you will be presented with a message that explains our use of cookies and provides you with the option to accept or decline the use of cookies.
You can change your cookie preferences at any time by accessing the cookie control system.
You can also block cookies by activating the setting on your browser that allows you to refuse the setting of all or some cookies.
However, if you set it to block all cookies (including essential cookies) you may not be able to access all or parts of our site.
8c- More info: see Privacy Policy.
9) Terms and Conditions Modification
9a- Right to Modify: We reserve the right to make changes to these Terms and Conditions at any time and at our discretion. Any modifications will be effective immediately upon their publication on our website. Your continued use of the website after the changes take effect constitutes your acceptance of the new Terms and Conditions.
9b- Notification of Changes: We will make reasonable efforts to communicate any changes to the Terms and Conditions clearly and promptly. These changes may include, but are not limited to, modifications to policies, offered features, or operational practices of our website. We recommend periodically checking this and the legal section to verify if any changes have been made.
9c- Acceptance of Changes: Your continued use of our website after the publication of modifications to the Terms and Conditions constitutes your acceptance of those changes. If you do not agree with the made changes, please discontinue using our website immediately.
9d- Retroactivity of Changes: The modified Terms and Conditions will only apply to future activities on our website unless expressly stated otherwise. Transactions or interactions that occurred before the changes took effect will be governed by the Terms and Conditions in force at the time of the activity.
9e- Information about Modifications: We will do our best to inform you about any modifications made to the Terms and Conditions through notices on the website or via other appropriate communication means. However, we shall not be responsible if you do not receive such notices or if you are unaware of the changes to the Terms and Conditions.
9f- Review of Terms and Conditions: We encourage you to regularly review the Terms and Conditions of our website to ensure that you are aware of the most updated provisions. Your continued use of our website implies your acceptance of the Terms and Conditions in effect at that time.
10) Acceptance of Rules
10a- This document serves as the terms and conditions governing the use of Tourist Scams content.
10b- By choosing to access or use the content, the user explicitly agrees to abide by all the rules and regulations set forth in these terms and conditions.