Scam in ChinaShopping
Fake antiques in China
How it works
A seller presents a modern item as an antique. Most supposed antiques offered to visitors are fakes, even when they look convincing.
Warning signs
- The seller's claim is your only proof of age.
- You feel pushed to buy before checking the item.
How to avoid it
- Buy an item because you like it, rather than because you expect it to be valuable.
- Get independent advice before spending a large amount.
- Treat claims of age or rarity with caution.
If it happens to you
Keep the item, receipt and any written claims. Ask for a refund and contact consumer protection if the seller misrepresented it.
- Move somewhere safe. Avoid threats, physical arguments or chasing a thief.
- Stop further payments. Freeze stolen cards and secure affected payment or phone accounts.
- Save evidence: receipts, messages, payment records, vehicle details and the place and time. Collect evidence only when safe.
- Report the scam or theft to police on 110. For a suspicious phone call, use 96110 for scam enquiries.
- Ask your hotel for help explaining the problem. Contact your card issuer about disputed payments and your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you are detained.
- Ask for a police report or reference number. Keep copies for your bank, insurer and any follow-up complaint.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the fake antiques scam in China?
A seller presents a modern item as an antique. Most supposed antiques offered to visitors are fakes, even when they look convincing.
How can I spot it early?
The seller's claim is your only proof of age. You feel pushed to buy before checking the item.
How do I avoid fake antiques in China?
Buy an item because you like it, rather than because you expect it to be valuable. Get independent advice before spending a large amount. Treat claims of age or rarity with caution.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the item, receipt and any written claims. Ask for a refund and contact consumer protection if the seller misrepresented it.
Where in China does this happen?
Markets and shops selling items as antiques.
How common is this scam in China?
Very common. China is generally safe for visitors, and violent street crime is rare. Tourist scams and theft still happen, especially around busy sights, transport hubs and crowds. Watch for taxi overcharging, invitations that lead to expensive purchases, fake goods and pickpockets.
Are there similar scams in China?
Yes: student or artist exhibition invitations, fake branded goods and copied media.
Who can I report it to?
Public security police: call 110 to report a scam or theft. Give your location, what happened and any evidence. Ask hotel staff for language help if needed. Scam enquiry service: call 96110 to enquire about suspicious phone calls. Police may also use this number with an area-code prefix to warn about possible scams. Consumer Protection: call 12315 about a consumer dispute, such as a misleading sale or disputed business charge. Keep the receipt and details of the business. Anti-corruption reporting service: call 12388 to report a bribe demand. Hotel doorman or front desk: ask for help if a taxi seriously overcharges you on the way to your hotel. Show the receipt, driver's ID or number plate details. Card issuer or payment provider: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a stolen card, report an unauthorised payment or ask about disputing a charge. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help after passport theft or detention. If detained, politely request consular access and a translator.
What number do I call in an emergency in China?
Police; report scams and theft: 110, Ambulance / EMS: 120, Fire Department: 119, Traffic Police; merged with 110 in some cities: 122, Scam enquiry: 96110.
Reviewed by @snuck