By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – With school out and summer travel ramping up across Tucson, the FBI is urging anyone leaving the United States—especially those traveling across international borders—to stay vigilant, know local laws, and watch for common scams targeting tourists.
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The FBI says travelers should research the rules, laws, and regulations of the region they plan to visit before they go. Agents also warn that scams can happen quickly, and may involve overpriced goods, misleading exchange rates, or even hotel phone calls that try to get travelers to send money or share personal information.
FBI Tucson Border Liaison Officer Troy Zirker recommends exchanging money safely and knowing the current rate ahead of time.
“The last thing that I would say just to keep you safe to avoid any scams would be to get your money from a bank, specifically from an ATM inside the bank or from a reputable money exchange house,” Zirker said. “Know in advance what the exchange rate is so you don’t get taken advantage of.”
Whether traveling by car or plane, the FBI encourages people to travel during daylight hours and use trusted transportation. If you’re crossing international borders, officials recommend identifying the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in case of an emergency, establishing a point of contact back home, and traveling in groups when possible.
The FBI also warns that scammers may exploit vulnerable situations—and that once money is sent internationally, it can be difficult to recover.
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For teens and adults who plan to drink while traveling, Zirker says to be careful about where alcohol is purchased and to prioritize safety.
“Just use caution from where you’re buying alcohol and from whom,” Zirker said. “Not all of the production standards are the same and if you are going to drink on the beach, do not get into the water… just because something is legal, doesn’t mean that it’s safe.”
The FBI also recommends checking U.S. travel advisory levels before heading out. There are currently Level 2, Level 3, and Level 4 advisories in place for different countries.
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