Scam in JordanTaxis
A remote taxi ride becomes an extortion threat in Jordan
How it works
A driver takes passengers into the desert and threatens to leave them unless they hand over their money. This is described as rare and very unlikely with recommended drivers.
Warning signs
- The driver demands extra money while you are isolated.
- They threaten to abandon you away from help.
How to avoid it
- Use buses or coaches for long journeys where practical.
- Choose a recommended driver.
- Agree the route and total fare before leaving.
- Share your journey details with someone you trust.
If it happens to you
Put your safety first and avoid physical resistance. Call 911 when you can safely do so and share your location.
- Get to a safe, public place. Avoid physical confrontation. Call 911 if you are threatened or in immediate danger.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, vehicle details and amount paid.
- Save receipts, screenshots, messages and booking records. Photograph relevant details only when safe.
- Contact your card issuer if your card was stolen or used without permission. Ask about freezing the card and disputing charges.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance.
- Contact the booking service, accommodation or transport platform involved. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate.
Questions
What is the a remote taxi ride becomes an extortion threat scam in Jordan?
A driver takes passengers into the desert and threatens to leave them unless they hand over their money. This is described as rare and very unlikely with recommended drivers.
How can I spot it early?
The driver demands extra money while you are isolated. They threaten to abandon you away from help.
How do I avoid a remote taxi ride becomes an extortion threat in Jordan?
Use buses or coaches for long journeys where practical. Choose a recommended driver. Agree the route and total fare before leaving. Share your journey details with someone you trust.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Put your safety first and avoid physical resistance. Call 911 when you can safely do so and share your location.
Where in Jordan does this happen?
Long-distance taxi journeys through remote desert areas.
How common is this scam in Jordan?
Occasional. Jordan is relatively safe, but tourist overcharging is common when prices are not agreed in advance. The main problems involve taxis, commission-driven recommendations and misleading offers; threats and serious cheating are rare.
Are there similar scams in Jordan?
Yes: taxi meter refusal and inflated fares, a whole-taxi price becomes a per-person price, luggage held in the taxi boot.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 911 for police, paramedics or firefighting in an emergency. Police: report theft, fraud or threats. Bring receipts, screenshots, vehicle details and a written account. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Petra: seek help at the tourist police kiosk at Petra. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the contact number on your card to report theft or unauthorised charges and ask about payment disputes. Ride-hailing or booking service: use the support channel linked to your trip or booking. Include the agreed price, payment record and details of any extra demand. Airport security supervisor: for disputed confiscations at Aqaba airport, calmly request a supervisor, an explanation and a written record where possible. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport is lost or stolen, or you need help after a serious incident.
What number do I call in an emergency in Jordan?
Central emergency line: police, paramedics and firefighting: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck