Common Scams in Thailand and How to Avoid Them

'The Site Is Closed Today' Near Tourist Sites

A known trick where someone near a popular tourist site says it's closed and 'kindly' recommends an alternative tour or a jewelry shop — best to ignore and check an official source.

Sophisticated Meters and Taxis

Recommended to make sure the driver uses the meter or agree on a price in advance, and know roughly the reasonable price for the distance before the ride.

Car/Motorbike Rental with 'Existing Damage'

Recommended to photograph the vehicle from every angle before accepting it, to avoid being charged for damage you didn't cause.

Scams Worth Knowing in Advance

Besides the 'site closed today' trick, the gem scam is well known: someone friendly tells you about a government sale of gemstones, and suggests buying and reselling abroad at a profit. Don't buy gemstones from a tuk-tuk driver who took you to a shop. Also, a very cheap tuk-tuk that goes to 'the sights' stops on the way at shops so the driver gets a commission, so agree on the final destination and price in advance.

In Phuket and on the islands, a jet-ski rental scam is common, in which 'damage' you didn't cause is presented and a high payment demanded, and the way to avoid it is to take photos and insist on a written contract. Market stalls that give short change or unclear prices are another place to be careful.

How to React Properly

The simple rule is not to panic and not to argue. Smile, say thanks with no extras, and keep walking. If someone offers you something you didn't ask for and it seems too good, there is probably an interest behind it. Don't hand over your original passport as a deposit, and don't sign documents you don't understand. Keep photos and receipts as evidence.

Who to Contact If Something Happens

The Tourist Police in Thailand are available at 1155, speak English and are meant to help tourists. The general police emergency number is 191. If it's about a lost passport, see the lost passport guide. And if financial damage was caused, keep all the documents and photograph everything before filing a complaint.

How to Prepare in Advance

The best way to avoid scams is to know the reasonable prices. Use ride apps, and check recent reviews before booking a tour. Read tourist traps, and see managing money in Thailand. And if you're traveling alone, see solo travel in Thailand. A summary of common planning mistakes is in the 10 common mistakes.

Digital and Payment Scams

There are risks online too: fake booking sites, links sent in messages, and open Wi-Fi networks. Book through well-known sites, and check the address before entering card details. At ATMs prefer machines inside a bank branch, and check that there are no suspicious devices on the card reader. The ATM fees guide explains how to do this properly. Never share verification codes or passwords with anyone, even if they present themselves as hotel or bank staff, and double-check any request for an extra payment.

Keep reading

Pattaya for families and couples: how to choose an area and what is actually worth it.