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6 travel scams to avoid on your next trip

The hot dog con
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The hot dog con

How it works: A man eating a hot dog, which is really a tube of mustard in a bun, walks by and squirts mustard all over a tourist.

"Most people immediately drop their bags so they can clean off the mess," Orwoll says.

While the hot dog con man is apologizing and helping you clean up, his accomplice is pilfering your briefcase, shopping bags, purse and luggage.

Where it happens: Large U.S. and international airports, big shopping areas and malls in the U.S. and Europe.

What you can do: Always place bags between your legs, whether you're standing or sitting. And remember, "Any kind of distraction could be meant to distract you," Orwoll says.


 

 

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