Scam 1:
Advance Payment Deception: Scammers lure victims through marketplaces and classified ads for car rental services. After receiving advance payment, they disappear, leaving clients stranded without the promised vehicle on the scheduled day.
To avoid this scam:
Request Company Registration Documents: Before making any advance payments, insist on seeing the company's registration documents to verify its legitimacy.
Payment Methods: Ensure you only make payments through the company's registered bank account or verified mobile wallet. Avoid cash transactions or payments to personal accounts.
Verify Online Presence: Check if the company is registered with Google and has a verified blue tick. Legitimate businesses often have an established online presence.
Review Social Media Channels: Investigate the company's social media profiles for reviews, ratings, and customer feedback. Genuine businesses usually maintain an active and credible social media presence.
Demand Visual Proof: Ask for multiple photos and videos of the rental vehicle from different angles. This ensures transparency and helps confirm the existence and condition of the vehicle you're renting.
Rent a car with confidence from Travel Kendra in Kathmandu and across Nepal. As a registered company operating since November 2019, we offer reliable services and a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs. Whether you're exploring the city or embarking on an adventure, our 24-hour service ensures assistance whenever you need it. Rest assured, all our vehicles are meticulously maintained for your safety and comfort. Experience hassle-free car rental with Travel Kendra and make your journey in Nepal memorable and enjoyable.
Scam 2:
Risks of Renting from Individuals: While renting a car from an individual may seem cheaper, it comes with risks. If the car breaks down or the driver falls ill, you may not receive immediate assistance or a replacement vehicle. Moreover, obtaining a refund can be challenging due to the lack of information about the individual's identity and address.
To avoid this scam:
Avoid Renting from Unknown Individuals: Refrain from renting vehicles from individuals whom you do not know personally. Stick to reputable companies with established track records.
Rent from Registered Companies: Only rent from well-known companies that are registered and have physical offices. This ensures accountability and recourse in case of any issues.
Choose Reputable Rental Companies: With numerous registered car rental companies like Travel Kendra in Kathmandu, opt for those with positive reviews and a history of providing reliable and affordable services. This reduces the risk of encountering scams and ensures a smooth rental experience.
Scam 3:
Bait-and-Switch Tactics: Scammers may initially offer the cheapest rates to entice clients. However, on the day of the rental when clients are pressed for time to change plans, they start demanding extra money. They may claim that the initial cost only covered one-way travel, exclude fuel and driver expenses, or demand additional fees for luggage, catching clients off guard.
To avoid this scam:
Confirm Full Cost in Advance: Before making any advance payments, ensure that the full and final cost, including all possible additional fees, is clearly communicated and agreed upon.
Document Costing Details: Save all communication, including chat transcripts or recorded calls, that outline the agreed-upon costs and terms of the rental. This serves as evidence in case of disputes later on.
Use Trusted Platforms: Consider renting through reputable platforms like the Travel Kendra app, where you can access comprehensive details about the rental, including pricing, terms, and reviews. Such platforms offer added security and transparency, minimizing the risk of falling victim to scams.
