Question 1

What is the "Ybor City Shell Game and Street Gambling" scam in Tampa?

Accepted Answer

Three-card monte and shell game operators set up on the edges of the Ybor City entertainment area, typically with a ring of apparent winners who are actually shills. Tourists and nightlife visitors are lured in to bet money on unwinnable games. Never bet on any street game regardless of how simple it looks. The apparent winners are always confederates. Walk past without stopping.

Question 2

What is the "Riverwalk Vendor Overpricing and Bait Pricing" scam in Tampa?

Accepted Answer

Vendors along the Tampa Riverwalk between the Tampa Bay History Center and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park sell tourist trinkets and framed photos at prices far above comparable items available elsewhere. Some vendors verbally quote prices double the marked rate to visitors who appear unfamiliar with local pricing, then offer a staged discount back to the original price to create a false sense of bargaining success. Compare prices with the Tampa History Center gift shop and established retailers before buying from Riverwalk vendors. Ask to see a printed price list, and be aware the first quoted price may be inflated. Do not feel pressured to buy after a vendor engages you in conversation.

Question 3

What is the "Fake Charity Solicitations Near Tourist Areas" scam in Tampa?

Accepted Answer

Individuals near Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium on Channelside Drive, and the Tampa Riverwalk approach tourists with clipboards or collection cans claiming to represent local charities. Funds collected are not affiliated with any registered nonprofit. Decline street solicitors politely and donate to causes through official charity websites. If interested, ask for the organization's full legal name and Florida nonprofit registration number before contributing.

Street Scams in Tampa

Ybor City Shell Game and Street Gambling

Riverwalk Vendor Overpricing and Bait Pricing

Fake Charity Solicitations Near Tourist Areas

Experienced a scam here?