Job Discussion Forums

[naturegirl321]

Kidnappings here in Peru usually happen to politicians and rich people, but everyone should be alert. Here are two ploys that have been used on me recently, so just be aware.

In October, I was downtown in a nice area looking for flights in travel agencies. As I left one another woman left after me. When we were outside she asked if I was looking for flights. I said yes. She said she worked for a travel agency. I asked for her card. She didn't have one with her. She then offered to take me to the travel agency in a taxi. I said thanks and walked away. Don't get into taxis with unknown people, no matter what they tell you.

The second happened to me yesterday. I got a call from some at my bank. She said that they were having a breakfast in order to ask me my opinion about the bank. She wanted to get info from me, such as where I lived, what I did, etc. Don't give out info over the phone. Even if they say that they are from a place where you have accounts. If it's true, they should have your information, there's no reason why they need to ask for it. She told me that the breakfast was free and a taxi would be provided. Just like the first situation, don't get into taxis with people you don't know. I then called the bank. They said they there was no breakfast. What happens is that people inside the bank or company sell info to others, that's how they know you're a customer there.

These are just some of the ploys, I'm sure they're are more. Overall I feel safe here. Just always be wary. And in my opinion, public transport is safer than taxis.

[keepwalking]

In the smaller cities public transport IS taxis and so care is needed. I follow these 'rules'

1. Only get into a taxi with a driver who is old and who I can outrun if it comes to it.

2. Sit in the back, behind the driver so he can't get to you.

3. Lock the doors and roll up windows.

One friend will only get into a taxi after texting the plate number to someone else. I don't do this because I figure that if they are going to abduct me they probably stole the taxi first!

Good to have a reminder of the scams out there. Thanks naturegirl.

[naturegirl321]

Here, the combis, or buses can be a bit dangerous as well. DOn't hang your arm out the window, or better yet close the windows. I've seen people reach in and grab watches, hats, purses off adults and children.