After you get into the taxi, the driver might tell you that the meter is broken and quote an outrageously high fare—this can add up to hundreds of dollars if you're not paying attention.
Travel Scams No One Talks About—And How To Outsmart Them
Don't Get Fooled
Most of us think we’re smart enough to spot travel scams, but the unfortunate reality is that even the savviest of us can fall victim to fraudsters.
Whether it's being wildly overcharged for a taxi or unknowingly sharing credit card details, here are some scams you should look out for on your next trip.
![](https://wsrv.nl/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.factinate.com%2Fstorage%2Fapp%2Fmedia%2Fsplashtravels%2F2024%2F10%2F11%2Ftravelscams-msn.jpg&w=800)
Fake Law Enforcement Officers
Beware of the fake officer scam, which happens in many large cities. It usually begins with someone approaching a tourist, offering illegal items such as substances.
During the conversation, a "police officer" comes and flashes a fake badge. They then insist that the tourist surrender their passport and wallet.
![asking policeman for direction](https://wsrv.nl/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.factinate.com%2Fstorage%2Fapp%2Fmedia%2Fsplashtravels%2F2024%2F4%2F30%2Fshutterstock_634087466.jpg&w=800)
Fake Law Enforcement Officers: How To Outsmart Them
Never hand over your wallet or passport. Instead, ask them to show you their identification and tell them that you'll call the police to verify their identity.
You can also say your passport is in your hotel safe, and they'll need to accompany you there. If they refuse, just walk away.
![tourist woman in brown coat holding a map](https://wsrv.nl/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.factinate.com%2Fstorage%2Fapp%2Fmedia%2Fsplashtravels%2F2024%2F4%2F30%2Fpexels-olly-3781824.jpg&w=800)
The Broken Taxi Meter
This scam is typically used by cab drivers near airports or train stations, though it can happen anywhere.
![Tourists waiting for a Yellow Taxi](https://wsrv.nl/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.factinate.com%2Fstorage%2Fapp%2Fmedia%2Fsplashtravels%2F2024%2F4%2F30%2Fpexels-filiamariss-19879932-1.jpg&w=800)