The 8 Most Common Tourist Scams in Thailand

Learn about the 8 most common tourist scams in Thailand – and how to avoid them to fully enjoy the Land of Smiles without any unwelcome surprises.

Tourists from all around the world visit Thailand for its beautiful beaches, delicious street food, and stunning islands.

However, like any popular tourist destination, Thailand is also home to some clever tourist scams.

As a savvy traveler, it’s crucial to be aware of these scams to fully enjoy the Land of Smiles without any unwelcome surprises.

That’s why we wrote this post about Thailand’s most common tourist scams – and how to avoid them.

The Most Common Tourist Scams in Thailand

The table below gives an overview of the most common tourist scams in Thailand.

Thailand Tourist Scam	How to avoid
‘Closed’ Attraction Scam	Check official websites for opening times
Taxi Scams	Insist on using the meter and have an idea of the route.
Tuk-tuk Scams	Negotiate a fixed price.
Gem Scams	Be careful with very cheap offers and stick to reputable stores.
Street Vendor Scams	Verify authenticity of products and negotiate a fair price.
Scooter/ Jet Ski Scam	Verify the authenticity of products and negotiate a fair price.
ATM Skimming	Use ATMs in secure locations and shield your PIN entry.
Internet and Wi-Fi Scams	Use a VPN to access sensitive information, such as your bank account.

1. The ‘Closed’ Attraction Scam

The ‘Closed’ Attraction trick is one of the most common scams in Thailand. It often targets tourists heading to the Grand Palace in Bangkok, but it also happens elsewhere.

Tourists are misled by locals claiming that the tourist attraction they want to visit is closed, for example, because of a Buddhist ceremony.

They then offer to take them to a lesser-known attraction where they get a commission.

How to avoid: Always check Google or the official websites for the opening times. As the scammers usually approach you near the tourist attractions, I’d always check the entrance myself.

2. Taxi Scams in Thailand

One of the most frequent complaints among tourists in Thailand is being overcharged by taxis. Some drivers refuse to use meters or take longer routes to increase the fare. 

How to avoid: Always insist on using the meter and have an idea of the route. I usually use Google Maps navigation and turn on voice commands so the driver notices I follow the route.

3. Tuk-Tuk Scams

Tuk-tuks are fun, and I think everyone should use them at least once in Thailand. However, there are also a lot of scams related to tuktuks. 

Tuk-tuk drivers often overcharge tourists or take them on unsolicited tours to overpriced shops where they get a commission.

How to avoid: Always negotiate a fixed price before getting in the tuk-tuk. Ensure the driver takes you directly to your destination without stopping at a tailor or jewelry shop. 

4. Gem Scams

Someone may approach you, offering gems or jewelry at bargain prices. The quality is often poor, and the stones are fake.

How to avoid: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Research before and stick to reputable stores. 

5. Street Vendor Scams

Street vendors might charge you inflated prices or try to sell fake products. 

How to avoid: I really enjoy shopping from local vendors in Thailand. However, for pricier items, it’s important to check their authenticity. It’s often safer to buy from well-known stores.

I usually compare prices and ask locals what a fair price is. While certain products or services have a fixed price, you should negotiate a FAIR price for others.

6. Scooter/ Jet Ski Scam

Some rental operators may falsely accuse customers of causing damage to their vehicles and then demand substantial payment, often using aggressive tactics to intimidate them.

How to avoid: Always take photos and videos before renting! Use only reputable companies. 

I’d also never leave my passport as a deposit!!! I was once in Koh Phangan, and the rental company asked my friend for a high price before returning his passport – knowing that our ferry would depart soon, not leaving us time to call the police!

7. ATM Skimming

Criminals attach illegal card-reading devices to ATMs to steal card information from users. This information is then used to clone cards or perform unauthorized transactions.

How to avoid: Use ATMs in secure locations, like banks, busy streets, or shops. Always shield your PIN entry. I also recommend checking your bank statements regularly for any unauthorized transactions.

8. Internet and Wi-Fi Scams

Using unsecured Wi-Fi networks can lead to data theft. 

How to avoid: Avoid accessing sensitive information, like logging in to your bank account, on public networks. I also highly recommend using a VPN (I use Express VPN)! 

Frequently Asked Questions