Hearing a stranger say "this phrase" at the airport? It's best to refuse immediately and leave the scene.

▲ At the airport, if you hear a stranger make "this request," it’s best to refuse immediately and leave the scene. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yuk-kang)

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

Taiwanese travelers are generally warm-hearted and often willing to help others in need. However, many don’t realize that if you hear "this request" while checking in at the airport, it’s best to say no and walk away right away. Recently, a netizen posted onPTT, sharing that when they were at the check-in counter, a young couple suddenly asked them to help carry "a small box of cake," bringing the issue back into the spotlight.

These kinds of requests from strangers — asking you to "bring XX onto the plane" or "carry it out of customs" — occasionally happen at airports.But if the item contains prohibited goods (such as drugs), your moment of kindness could land you in legal trouble.Although many people are aware of this little piece of common knowledge, quite a few still don’t know about it.

A netizen posted on PTT on the 13th, sharing their experience of being asked by a young couple at the check-in counter while flying back to Taiwan from Japan to "help carry a small box of cake," which left them quite shocked."I scolded them on the spot. What if there were illegal items inside? Would I end up in jail until my hair turns white?"They also said: "It’s just a few hundred dollars’ worth of stuff. Don’t make things difficult for strangers like that. Either eat it yourselves or throw it away!"

The original poster also reminded everyone: "About airport check-ins. Whether you’re asking someone to carry something or being asked to do so, don’t get involved in this kind of thing.Your life can’t afford one mistake." This reignited discussions, with netizens responding in posts:"Right way to think!" "Would definitely refuse!" "It’s kinda weird to ask a stranger to carry something this small.""Small cakes can go on the plane — what’s the problem here?" "Feels fishy." "Maybe you really did avoid something, who knows." "This is basic common sense!" Still, some genuinely didn’t know and quickly commented: "Thanks to the OP for the reminder."

A reminder to all travelers: No matter what a stranger asks of you or what kind of person they seem to be, it’s best to refuse immediately and walk away. Also, always keep an eye on your luggage and personal belongings to prevent any malicious individuals from hiding illegal items in them.