1. What are the most common scams targeting tourists in Portugal?
Some of the most common scams targeting tourists in Portugal include:
1. The “fake police” scam: In this scam, tourists are approached by someone claiming to be a police officer who asks to check their documents or belongings. The scammer may try to extort money or steal valuables during the interaction.
2. The “gold ring” scam: In this scam, someone will approach tourists and offer them a gold ring they have supposedly found on the ground. They will then try to sell it to the tourist for a high price, claiming it is worth more than it actually is.
3. The “fake accommodation” scam: This involves scammers setting up fake accommodation listings online or offering cheap rooms on the street, only for the accommodation to turn out to be subpar or nonexistent once the payment has been made.
4. The “ATM skimming” scam: This involves scammers placing devices on ATMs that can record card information and PINs when used. They can then use this information to make fraudulent purchases with the stolen card details.
5. The “flirtatious locals” scam: In this scam, someone will strike up a conversation with a tourist and charm them into going for drinks at a nearby bar or club. Once there, they may order expensive drinks and expect the tourist to pay for everything before disappearing.
6. The “taxi overcharging” scam: Some taxi drivers in Portugal have been known to overcharge tourists by taking longer routes or using meters that are rigged to show higher prices.
7. The “free gifts” scam: This involves vendors trying to entice tourists into their shops by offering free gifts or samples, only to pressure them into buying expensive items once inside.
8. The “timeshare presentation” scam: Tourists may be approached on the street with promises of free gifts if they attend a timeshare presentation. However, these presentations often turn out to be high-pressure sales pitches and the free gifts are not as valuable as promised.
2. How can travelers avoid falling victim to pickpocketing in Portugal?
1. Be aware of your surroundings: One of the best ways to avoid pickpocketing is by being vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to any suspicious behavior or individuals around you.
2. Keep valuables out of sight: Pickpockets often target easily accessible items such as wallets, phones, and cameras. Keep these items out of sight and in a secure location, such as a hidden pocket or a bag worn close to your body.
3. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash: Limit the amount of cash you carry with you and opt for using credit or debit cards instead. This can minimize the potential loss if your wallet is stolen.
4. Use a money belt: Consider wearing a money belt under your clothes to keep important documents like passports and larger amounts of cash safe.
5. Do not leave belongings unattended: Never leave your belongings unattended, even for just a moment. This includes bags, phones, and other personal items.
6. Be cautious in crowded areas: Pickpockets often operate in busy tourist areas such as public transport stations, markets, and tourist attractions. Be extra cautious in these areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
7. Avoid distractions: Pickpockets may use distractions such as bumping into you or asking for directions to target unsuspecting victims. Stay alert and be wary of any sudden distractions.
8. Travel with companions: If possible, travel with others as there is safety in numbers. Thieves are less likely to target groups rather than individuals.
9. Take precautions at night: Pickpocketing incidents tend to increase at night when it is harder to see who may be targeting you. Stay vigilant and avoid poorly lit or deserted streets.
10.Use common sense: In general, use common sense when travelling in Portugal (or any other country). Trust your instincts – if something feels off or suspicious, it’s best to avoid the situation altogether.
3. Are there any prevalent dangers or scams associated with using public transportation in Portugal?
There are some prevalent dangers and scams associated with using public transportation in Portugal. These include pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and on public buses or trains. Tourist areas and major cities like Lisbon and Porto are known to have higher rates of pickpocketing.Another scam to be aware of is fake ticket inspectors, who may try to collect fines or sell fake tickets to unsuspecting travelers. It’s important to only buy tickets from official vendors and to always ask for identification if approached by an inspector.
Additionally, there have been reports of taxi drivers overcharging tourists, so it’s best to only use licensed taxis with the meter running.
Overall, it is advisable to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings when using public transportation in Portugal, and take necessary precautions such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding displaying large amounts of cash or expensive items.
4. Is it safe to use ATM machines in Portugal, or should I be concerned about skimming devices?
It is generally safe to use ATM machines in Portugal, but you should always exercise caution and take certain precautions. Here are some tips to help protect yourself from potential skimming devices:
1. Use ATMs at reputable banks and avoid standalone machines, as they are more likely to be targeted by scammers.
2. Inspect the ATM for any signs of tampering or loose parts, such as card readers that seem out of place or keypad overlays.
3. Cover your hand when entering your PIN to prevent anyone from seeing it.
4. Monitor your account regularly and report any suspicious activity immediately.
5. Consider using contactless payment methods instead of physical cards when possible.
6. If you’re travelling with a companion, have them stand close by while you make your transaction to deter potential scammers.
In general, it’s always a good idea to be cautious when using ATMs, regardless of the country you’re in. By following these tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to skimming devices.
5. What precautions should solo female travelers take to stay safe from danger and scams in Portugal?
1. Research the area you plan to visit and familiarize yourself with any potential safety concerns or areas to avoid.2. Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.
3. Dress modestly and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large amounts of cash.
4. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated or poorly lit areas.
5. Use reputable transportation services, such as licensed taxis or Uber, instead of hitchhiking or taking unofficial taxis.
6. Be cautious when accepting drinks from strangers and don’t leave your drink unattended.
7. Keep important documents, such as your passport and money, in a secure place on your person at all times.
8. Avoid sharing personal information with strangers, especially information about where you are staying or traveling next.
9. Be wary of overly friendly locals who may be trying to scam or take advantage of you.
10. Trust your instincts and don’t feel pressured to do anything that makes you uncomfortable.
6. Are there any known fraudulent tour companies operating in Portugal that tourists should be wary of?
There is no specific list of known fraudulent tour companies in Portugal. However, as with any destination, it is always wise to research a company before booking a tour and to only use reputable and licensed tour operators. It is also recommended to read reviews from other travelers and to be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. If you have any doubts or concerns about a particular company, it is best to avoid booking with them.
7. Can you provide some examples of common street hustles and scams encountered by visitors to Portugal?
1. “Fake” souvenirs: Sellers on the street may approach tourists offering cheap souvenirs and claiming they are authentic local products. However, these items are often mass-produced and not genuinely Portuguese.
2. “Helpful” strangers: Scammers may offer to help tourists with directions or carry their luggage, only to demand an exorbitant fee for their services.
3. Fake charity collectors: Individuals posing as charity workers may ask for money or signatures on a petition, but the money will not go towards any legitimate cause.
4. Currency exchange fraud: Some street money changers advertise extremely favorable exchange rates, but tourists often end up receiving fake bills or getting shortchanged.
5. The “gold ring” scam: A person may approach tourists claiming to have found a valuable gold ring on the ground and offer to sell it at a bargain price. In reality, the ring is usually fake or worthless.
6. Restaurant overcharging: In touristy areas, some restaurants may inflate prices or add extra charges that were not disclosed in the menu.
7. Taxi scams: Taxi drivers may take longer routes or manipulate their meters to overcharge tourists for their rides.
8. Distraction thefts: Thieves may distract tourists by asking for directions or pretending to drop something while an accomplice steals from their bag or pockets.
9. Time-share scams: Tourists may be approached with offers of free gifts or luxury vacations if they attend a timeshare presentation, but these often turn out to be high-pressure sales pitches with hidden costs.
10. Pickpocketing: As in any major city, pickpocketing can happen in tourist areas, so visitors should always keep an eye on their belongings and be cautious of crowded places.
8. How is identity theft and credit card fraud typically carried out in Portugal, and how can travelers protect themselves?
Identity theft and credit card fraud in Portugal are usually carried out through a few common methods:
1. Skimming: This is when a criminal uses a device to capture your credit card information when you make a purchase. This can happen at ATMs, gas pumps, or even at retail stores if the cashier is in on the scam.
2. Phishing emails: These are fraudulent emails that appear to be from legitimate sources (like your bank or a government institution) asking for personal information, such as your login credentials or Social Security number.
3. Pickpocketing: Thieves may target tourists by stealing wallets or purses containing credit cards, IDs, and other personal documents.
To protect yourself from these types of fraud while traveling in Portugal, here are some tips:
1. Use secure ATMs: Only use ATMs at reputable banks or inside well-lit buildings. Check for any suspicious-looking devices attached to the ATM before inserting your card.
2. Be cautious with your personal information: Do not give out your credit card number, Social Security number, or other personal details unless absolutely necessary and only to trusted sources.
3. Stay vigilant with phishing emails: Be wary of clicking on links or attachments in unsolicited emails and never enter personal information on unfamiliar websites.
4. Keep an eye on your belongings: Keep your wallet or purse close to you at all times and avoid carrying unnecessary documents (like your Social Security card) with you while traveling.
5. Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your credit card and bank statements for any unauthorized charges and report them immediately if you spot any discrepancies.
6. Use a RFID-blocking wallet or sleeve: This can prevent thieves from scanning the RFID chip on newer credit cards that contain sensitive information.
7. Consider using cash: While using credit cards can be convenient, it may also increase the risk of fraud while traveling in a foreign country. Consider using cash for smaller purchases instead.
Overall, the best way to protect yourself from identity theft and credit card fraud is to be vigilant and cautious with your personal information at all times. If you do fall victim to any type of fraud in Portugal, be sure to contact your credit card company or bank immediately for assistance.
9. Is it necessary to be cautious of counterfeit goods and knockoff products while shopping in Portugal, or are they easily distinguishable from genuine items?
It is always important to be cautious of counterfeit goods and knockoff products while shopping in any country, including Portugal. These products can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from genuine items, so it is best to be vigilant and do some research on the brand and product before making a purchase. Be wary of significantly lower prices or poor quality, as these can be red flags for counterfeit products. It is also advisable to purchase from reputable retailers or official brand stores rather than street vendors or unknown sellers.
10. What measures can parents take to ensure their children’s safety from danger and scams while on holiday in Portugal?
1. Educate your children about potential scams: Teach your children about the common scams that may occur in Portugal and how they can protect themselves.
2. Keep an eye on their whereabouts: Make sure to know where your children are at all times and have them check in with you regularly.
3. Set clear rules and guidelines: Before going on holiday, discuss with your children the importance of staying safe and establish clear rules and guidelines for them to follow.
4. Do not leave children unattended: It is important to never leave your children alone, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots where they may be more vulnerable to danger or scams.
5. Be aware of pickpockets: Pickpocketing is a common occurrence in crowded areas, so make sure to keep an eye on your children’s belongings and remind them to do the same.
6. Avoid demonstrations or protests: In case of any political unrest, avoid taking your children to places where demonstrations or protests are taking place.
7. Use licensed transportation services: Make sure to use only licensed taxis or public transportation services and avoid travelling in unmarked or suspicious-looking vehicles.
8. Warn against accepting gifts from strangers: Advise your children not to accept any gifts from people they don’t know, as it could potentially be a scam or lure them into danger.
9. Teach them emergency numbers: Make sure your children know who to contact in case of an emergency and teach them the emergency numbers for police and medical services in Portugal.
10. Stay at reputable accommodations: Choose well-known and reputable accommodations for your family stay while on holiday in Portugal, as they typically have better safety measures in place for their guests.
11. Are there any popular tourist attractions or activities where visitors are at a higher risk of encountering dangers or falling for scams in Portugal?
1. Pickpocketing at major tourist destinations such as popular squares, train stations, and public transportation hubs.
2. Scam artists often approach tourists with offers of discounted vacation packages or tickets to popular attractions.
3. Taxi drivers may take longer routes or overcharge tourists for rides.
4. Common tourist scams, such as fake petitions for charities or fake sob stories asking for money.
5. Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
6. Apart from pickpocketing at crowded attractions, thieves may also target rental cars or parked vehicles.
7. Tourists may be targeted by individuals posing as police officers who ask for identification and then steal money or personal belongings.
8. Hiking in remote areas of Portugal can be dangerous due to uneven terrain and lack of cell phone service in some areas.
9. Swimming in unpatrolled beaches can be risky due to strong currents and unpredictable tides.
10. Street performers in popular areas may aggressively demand payment from spectators after their performances.
11. In popular nightlife areas, tourists may be drugged and robbed at bars or clubs.
12. Should I be concerned about fake police officers or other officials trying to extort money from tourists in Portugal?
While no country is completely free from the risk of scams and fraud, Portugal generally has a low crime rate and is considered a safe destination for tourists. However, there have been cases reported of fake police officers or other officials trying to extort money from tourists in busy tourist areas. To avoid falling victim to these types of scams, it is important to be vigilant and aware of common tactics used by scammers.
If you are approached by someone claiming to be a police officer or other official, always ask for identification and credentials. Legitimate officials will have official badges, uniforms, and identification cards that can be easily verified. If you are still unsure, it is best to go to a police station or call the emergency number (112) to report the incident.
It is also important to never give out personal information or hand over any money unless you are sure of the person’s identity and authority. Some scammers may try to create a sense of urgency or fear in order to pressure tourists into giving them money. Be cautious and trust your instincts.
Additionally, be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, such as discounted tours or souvenirs offered by strangers. These could also be tactics used by scammers.
Overall, as long as you take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings, you should not encounter any major issues with fake police officers or other officials trying to extort money while visiting Portugal.
13. Are there any particular areas or neighborhoods in Portugal that have a reputation for being more dangerous for visitors, and if so, which ones should be avoided?
Yes, like any country, there are certain areas or neighborhoods in Portugal that may have a higher crime rate and should be avoided by tourists. These include:– Certain areas in Lisbon, such as Martim Moniz, Anjos, Intendente, and Marvila.
– Cova da Moura and Quinta do Mocho in the outskirts of Lisbon.
– Certain neighborhoods in Porto, such as Bairro do Aleixo and Campanhã.
– The neighborhood of Casal Ventoso in Amadora.
– Certain areas in the Algarve region, such as Lagoa and Olhão.
It is important for visitors to research the specific area they plan on visiting and take necessary precautions to stay safe. It is also recommended to always be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items. If you are unsure of an area’s safety, it is best to ask locals or hotel staff for their advice.
14. How prevalent is credit card skimming at hotels, restaurants, and other establishments frequented by tourists in Portugal?
Credit card skimming is not a major issue in Portugal. While incidents can occur, they are not very prevalent at hotels, restaurants, and other tourist establishments. These establishments typically have security measures in place to prevent credit card skimming and most use secure payment systems. However, it is always important for travelers to exercise caution when using their credit cards, such as covering the pin pad and monitoring their statements for suspicious activity. It is also recommended to use credit cards with chip technology whenever possible, as these are more secure than traditional magnetic strip cards.
15. Are online rental property listings trustworthy, or do they pose a risk for vacation rental scams in Portugal?
There is always a risk of vacation rental scams when using online rental property listings, regardless of the country. It’s important to use caution and thoroughly research the property and the owner before making any reservations or payments. Here are some tips for avoiding vacation rental scams in Portugal:
1. Do your research: Before booking a vacation rental, be sure to research the property and its owner. Look for reviews, read through the listing carefully, and check out the owner’s profile.
2. Use reputable websites: Stick to well-known and established platforms like Airbnb, HomeAway, or Booking.com when searching for vacation rentals in Portugal. These websites usually have strict policies in place to protect their users from scams.
3. Communicate directly with the owner: Avoid booking through third-party websites or services that claim to handle bookings for you. Instead, communicate directly with the owner to confirm details about the rental and ask any questions you may have.
4. Be suspicious of low prices: If a listing seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure in potential victims with unrealistically low prices.
5. Watch out for red flags: Be cautious if an owner asks you to wire money or pay via gift cards or cryptocurrency. Legitimate owners will typically use secure payment methods like PayPal or credit card.
6. Don’t blindly trust images: While pictures can give you a good idea of what a property looks like, keep in mind that scammers can easily steal photos from legitimate listings to make their fake ones look more appealing.
7. Read the terms and conditions carefully: Make sure you understand all of the fees included with your booking before finalizing anything.
8. Pay attention to cancellation policies: Always check out the cancellation policy before making a reservation so you know what your options are if something goes wrong.
9. Trust your instincts: If something feels off about a listing or an owner, don’t ignore your gut feeling. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to a vacation rental scam in Portugal or anywhere else. Always exercise caution and use common sense when booking accommodations online.
16. Can you provide some tips for avoiding taxi-related scams such as overcharging, taking longer routes, etc., while traveling in Portugal?
1. Use a reliable taxi company: Make sure to use a reputable and licensed taxi company, and avoid taking unlicensed taxis.
2. Plan your route in advance: Familiarize yourself with the route to your destination before getting into the taxi, so you can recognize if the driver is taking a longer route than necessary.
3. Know the approximate fare: Ask a local or do some research beforehand to get an idea of how much the fare should be from your pick-up location to your destination. This will prevent you from being overcharged.
4. Negotiate a fixed price: If possible, negotiate a fixed price with the driver before starting your journey. This will prevent any surprises at the end of the trip.
5. Use ride-hailing apps: Consider using ride-hailing apps such as Uber or Cabify, which provide transparent pricing and eliminate the risk of being overcharged.
6. Keep an eye on the meter: Make sure the taxi’s meter is running and that it is set at an initial charge when you start your journey.
7. Talk to the driver: Strike up a conversation with your driver about their recommended routes to see if they are attempting to take advantage of tourists by taking longer routes.
8. Don’t agree to additional stops or detours: Taxi drivers may try to persuade you into making additional stops or detours for more money, so it’s best to stick to your original destination and route.
9. Have small bills ready: Be prepared with small bills and change to avoid any misunderstandings about payment at the end of your journey.
10. Check for hidden surcharges: Be aware of potential hidden surcharges such as extra luggage fees, late-night charges, or airport pickup fees that may inflate your fare.
11. Trust your instincts: If you feel like you are being taken advantage of, trust your gut and either ask the driver to stop and let you out or report the issue to the authorities.
12. Take note of the taxi’s registration number: Make a mental note or take a picture of the taxi’s registration number, which can be used to report any issues or complaints.
13. Watch out for fake taxis: Be cautious of unmarked cars posing as taxis, especially at busy tourist areas. Always make sure you are getting into a licensed and legitimate taxi.
14. Don’t fall for scams: Beware of common scams such as fake broken meters, not giving back correct change, or demanding payment in foreign currency at an inflated exchange rate.
15. Use public transportation: Consider using public transportation, such as buses or trains, instead of taxis if possible. These options often have fixed prices and are less susceptible to scams.
16. Research common scams: Do some research on common taxi scams in Portugal before your trip so you can be aware of potential warning signs and protect yourself against fraud.
17. What should travelers do if they fall victim to a scam or are in danger while visiting Portugal?
If travelers fall victim to a scam or are in danger while visiting Portugal, they should immediately contact the local authorities and report the incident. They can also reach out to their embassy or consulate for assistance and support. It is important to have travel insurance that covers incidents like these, as well as keep copies of important documents such as passports and credit cards in case they are lost or stolen. It is also helpful to stay aware of one’s surroundings and avoid risky situations.
18. Are there any cultural norms or customs that visitors should be aware of to avoid falling for scams or putting themselves in danger in Portugal?
Here are a few cultural norms and customs to keep in mind to avoid falling for scams or putting yourself in danger in Portugal:
1. Pickpocketing can be a problem, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.
2. Be cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or selling items on the street, as these could be potential scammers.
3. Remember to validate your ticket when using public transportation, as there have been instances of false inspectors that will try to fine you for not having a validated ticket.
4. Avoid flashing expensive items or large amounts of cash in public, as this could make you a target for theft.
5. Watch out for scams involving fake police officers who may ask to see your identification or search your bag. Always ask to see their official badge and identification before complying.
6. While it might be common back home, it is considered disrespectful and potentially dangerous to hitchhike in Portugal.
7. Be mindful of dress codes when visiting religious sites, such as churches and monasteries. Modest clothing is often required.
8. When dining out, be aware that it is customary to pay a cover charge (called “couvert”) before ordering food at many restaurants.
9. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service at restaurants and other services such as taxis and hairdressers.
10.Watch out for overly friendly locals who may try to convince you to visit local bars, clubs or shops where they receive commission/payment from the owners for bringing in tourists.
Overall, using common sense and being vigilant can help ensure a safe and scam-free experience during your visit to Portugal.
19. How can tourists avoid being targeted by fake tour guides offering unreliable services and potentially exploiting them for money in Portugal?
1. Research and book through reputable tour companies: Start by researching and booking your tours through reputable and well-known tour companies. You can also read reviews from other tourists to ensure that the company is reliable.
2. Look out for official tour guide badges: Be aware of official tour guide badges in Portugal. Official tour guides are required to carry a badge with their name, photo, and registration number issued by the Tourism Board of Portugal.
3. Do not engage with random individuals offering unofficial tours: If someone approaches you on the street or at popular tourist spots offering an unofficial tour, it is best to decline politely and continue with your original plans.
4. Always ask for credentials: If you do choose to go on a tour with someone who claims to be a guide, always ask for their credentials. A legitimate guide will have no problem showing you their official badge or any necessary permits.
5. Set clear expectations beforehand: Before starting your tour, make sure you set clear expectations with your guide about the itinerary, cost, and services included in the price. This will help prevent any surprises or misunderstandings later on.
6. Avoid paying upfront: It is common for some fake guides to ask for payment upfront before the start of the tour. Be wary of this and try to avoid paying until the end of the tour.
7. Trust your instincts: If something doesn’t feel right or if you feel uncomfortable during the tour, trust your instincts and end the experience early.
8. Use technology to verify information: In this digital age, it’s easy to verify information using your smartphone or other devices. Use online resources or mapping apps to confirm locations and prices before going on a tour.
9. Familiarize yourself with typical prices: Before heading to Portugal, research typical prices for tours in different areas so that you have an idea of what is considered reasonable.
10. Travel in groups: It is always safer to travel in a group rather than alone. This also reduces the chances of being targeted by fake tour guides.
11. Be aware of common scams: Educate yourself about common scams in the tourism industry in Portugal, such as inflated prices, false promises, and unsolicited offers.
12. Keep your valuables safe: Always keep your valuables such as money, passport, and other important documents safely with you during the tour to avoid being robbed or taken advantage of.
13. Consult with your hotel or local tourist office: The staff at your hotel or a local tourist office can provide valuable information on reputable tour companies and tips on how to avoid falling prey to fraudulent guides.
14. Learn basic Portuguese phrases: Knowing basic Portuguese phrases can help you communicate better with locals and make it less likely for fake guides to target you.
15. Report any suspicious activity: If you encounter any suspicious activity or feel like you have been scammed, report it to the authorities or your hotel immediately. This can help prevent others from becoming victims as well.
20. Are there any safety precautions that should be taken when using public Wi-Fi networks in Portugal, such as avoiding personal banking/financial transactions or accessing sensitive information?
It is always wise to take caution when using public Wi-Fi networks, especially in a foreign country. Here are some safety precautions that should be taken when using public Wi-Fi networks in Portugal:1. Avoid accessing sensitive information: It is best to avoid accessing sensitive information such as your bank account, credit card details or personal information while using public Wi-Fi networks. These networks are often unsecured and it could be easy for hackers to intercept your data.
2. Use a virtual private network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for anyone to view your online activities. This is a good option if you really need to use a public Wi-Fi network in Portugal.
3. Turn off automatic Wi-Fi connection: By turning off automatic Wi-Fi connection on your device, you can prevent it from connecting to any open networks without your knowledge.
4. Use secure websites: When accessing websites that require you to enter login credentials or personal information, make sure they have the “https” prefix in the URL. This means the website has an added layer of security.
5. Update your devices: Make sure your devices have the latest security updates installed before using a public Wi-Fi network.
6. Disable file sharing: Most devices have file sharing capabilities which can make your files vulnerable while connected to a public network. Make sure this feature is disabled before connecting.
7. Log out of accounts when finished: Once you have finished using the public Wi-Fi network, remember to log out of any accounts that you were signed into.
8. Use two-factor authentication: Enable two-factor authentication on important accounts like email and banking for an extra layer of security.
9. Be wary of pop-ups: If you encounter any pop-ups while browsing on a public network, do not click on them as they could potentially contain malicious links or software.
By following these precautions, you can minimize the risk of having your personal information compromised while using public Wi-Fi networks in Portugal. Ultimately, it is best to avoid conducting sensitive activities on these networks and opt for more secure options whenever possible.