The "broken meter" taxi scam
Taxi driver claims the meter is broken and quotes a fixed (inflated) fare instead. Most-documented in Thailand, Egypt, Morocco, India. Field guide: how the scam works, how to spot it in five seconds, and what to do if you fall for it.
Also called: Broken-meter scam, Fixed-fare scam, No-meter taxi.
How the scam works
You hail a taxi at the airport, station, or kerbside. The driver insists the meter is broken, out of service, or "not working today," and quotes a flat fare. The flat fare is usually 2-5x what the meter would have charged. In some variants the driver agrees to use the meter but takes a long detour or claims surge pricing applies. The scam targets first-time arrivals — once your luggage is in the boot, refusal is awkward.
How to spot it in 5 seconds
- Driver refuses to switch on the meter or claims it is broken
- Flat-fare quote is given without you asking the price
- Driver insists on a tourist destination upgrade ("better hotel," "real silk shop") en route
- Meter "happens" to be reset just before you arrive at your destination
- Driver claims a "tax," "tunnel toll," or "airport surcharge" that is not posted anywhere
What to do if you fall for it
- Pay only the meter rate if you can — if forced to pay the flat fare, do so and exit safely
- Take a photo of the licence plate and driver ID number before leaving
- Report to the destination country tourist police (numbers in your country guide)
- In Thailand: the Tourist Police hotline is 1155. In Egypt: 126. Most countries credit dispute the fare if you paid by card.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the The "broken meter" taxi scam most common?
The The "broken meter" taxi scam is most-documented in Thailand, Egypt, Morocco, India, Turkey. Reports come from FCDO and US State Department advisories, embassy briefings, and Warnely's editorial team. The scam can happen anywhere these patterns repeat — watch for the warning signs above regardless of country.
Is this scam dangerous or just annoying?
This scam is medium-risk: you might lose €20-200 or your phone, but it rarely escalates to physical harm. Block bank cards quickly and file a police report for insurance purposes.
What should I do if I am being scammed right now?
Step away from the situation if safe. Walk to a busier, public, well-lit area. If you have been robbed: block bank cards via your banking app within minutes. If you have been physically threatened: call the local emergency number (varies by country — see the country guide) and your embassy. Most embassies operate 24/7 emergency lines.
Will my travel insurance cover this?
Most travel insurance policies cover theft and fraud if you file a police report within 24 hours and provide the report number when claiming. Card fraud is usually reversed by your bank if reported promptly. Spiked-drink medical costs are typically covered as medical emergencies. Always check your specific policy before travel.