Scams

Despite what you might see on the internet scams are few and far between and Bangkok like any city attracts people from around the world who prey on tourists. There are many youtube videos which make out that you’ll be ripped off as you arrive. The truth is that they are not that common and Thai people are usually very honest and trustworthy.

If you unlucky enough to need their servces you can contact Tourist Police by dialling 1155 or to contact the Royal Thai Police dial 191

So whats the real truth behind these scams?

My wife and I have been coming to Thailand for 18 years and have had very few issues. We got scammed in a taxi once where the meter was running too fast and we paid about 200 baht too much. On another occasion which wasn’t really a scam as the driver was very much upfront a Tuk Tuk driver offered a cheap tour and we only took him up on the offer if we only went to one tailor. He was very upfront about his commission and we had a superb very very cheap tour so it’s not really a scam.

We’ve never had someone try to short change us and whilst we are sure these scams exist they are much less frequent that you would imagine.

Common Thailand Scams to Watch Out For

• Tuk-Tuk & Taxi Scams: Drivers may claim popular attractions (like the Grand Palace) are closed, then offer to take you to alternative, overpriced, or fraudulent shops (gems, tailors) where they receive commissions. Some Taxis don’t turn on the meterand try to negotiate a price with you instead.
• Jet Ski & Motorbike Damage Scams: Pre-existing, minor damage is blamed on you upon return, with operators demanding exorbitant repair fees.
• Gem & Jewelry Scams: Smooth-talking locals or drivers claim you can buy valuable gems at a “special price” to resell back home, but the items are worthless fakes.
• Nightlife/Bar Scams: In areas like Patpong, you may be lured into a bar with a low-cost show, only to be presented with a massive, forced bill for drinks you didn’t order.
• The “Friendly Stranger” Scam: A person approaches you in a tourist area, strikes up a conversation, and claims a nearby attraction is closed before offering to take you on a cheap tour that leads to scams.
• Wrong Change Scam: Vendors or drivers may argue you paid with a lower denomination note and refuse to give proper change.
• Fake Police/Officials: Scammers posing as police may threaten fines for minor, fake offenses. 

Tips for Avoiding Scams

• Verify Closures: If a driver says an attraction is closed, check online or walk to the entrance yourself.
• Inspect Rentals: Take photos and videos of rental jet skis or motorbikes before leaving the lot.
• Avoid “Too Good to be True” Deals: Be wary of incredibly cheap transportation or “bargain” luxury goods.
• Watch Your Bill: Closely monitor your tab in bars, especially in adult entertainment districts.
• Politely Decline: Ignore friendly strangers who approach you in tourist hotspots.