CAMAGUEY, Cuba – William Navarro, 25, said he can spot a foreigner in Camaguey in a second. He has been treating them as opportunities to make quick cash for five years, he said. 

Navarro is the version of a concierge with a covert financial interest. If he manages to convince a tourist to stay at a specific home, he will get a commission. Navarro said he doesn't view his trickery as a crime or as fraud. It's not punishable by law, he said, so he stays friendly and appears helpful -- just waiting for that lost tourist.

Here is a list of scams used to target tourists in Cuba:

The 'Casa Particular' scam

In following the tradition of the bed and breakfast, many families are renting sections of their homes to foreigners. There are opportunists in town who look for tourists in hope of earning a commission if they decide to stay at a particular B&B. To do so, Navarro is one of many who will pretend they are ready to guide or give directions.

Think before you gift

If someone at a store approaches you alleging they are in need of food, think twice. It is not uncommon for someone to make a deal with a store clerk. Once you have paid for what you think is powdered milk for a baby and step away, they may split the money or exchange the goods. If you want to help, you are better of doing your research and helping an organization that helps the poor or a specific family.

The fake cigar

The romanticism of the Cuban cigar is often exploited on the streets. There is a black market for counterfeit Cubans and this includes the Cohiba Explendido, which can be easily faked and sold outside of the Cuban cigar stores, where fraudsters look for tourists. Look for the Cuban warranty seal, a hologram and a bar code.

The 'take home' music scam

The container in front of performers asking for a contribution is on every street corner that tourists frequent. Most recently, some musicians have opted for also selling a $10 home-burnt CD. Don't expect to get good quality. And do expect an empty CD or a noisy unrelated beat in some cases.

The Santeria divination scam

After reading your future, they will try to sell you overpriced tonics. The real practice of the religion is traditionally secretive and having access to a Babalawo, a Santeria priest certainly doesn't happen through a recruiter on the street. 

Currency exchange scam

The socialist island has a dual currency system and remains mostly a cash country. To avoid becoming a victim of this scam, recognize the difference between the CUC and the CUP.  Check your change when you are out shopping. The Banco Central de Cuba posts daily currency exchange rates on their website.