Scam in IranBuses and trains
Airport shuttle overcharging and luggage extras in Iran
How it works
Shuttle drivers may inflate the fare or demand extra money for luggage even when there is space. Bags that occupy another passenger seat can also lead to an extra charge.
Warning signs
- The driver avoids giving a total price.
- A luggage charge appears after you have agreed to travel.
- You are asked to put your bag on an extra passenger seat.
How to avoid it
- Confirm the total fare, including luggage, before boarding.
- Keep yourself and your bags within one seat's space where possible.
- Ask about any charge before using another seat.
- Use the airport taxi counter if you want a clearly arranged alternative.
If it happens to you
Ask the driver to explain any charge that was not agreed. If you have not left and cannot agree, choose another ride.
- Get somewhere safe. If someone threatens you, put your safety ahead of money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, where it happened and any details you remember. Keep receipts, messages and booking records.
- Check what is missing. If cards or a phone were stolen, contact the issuer or mobile provider promptly to secure them.
- Report fraud, theft or threats to police. Call 110 for help or visit a police station. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport was taken. Tell your travel insurer and keep copies of reports and expenses.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the airport shuttle overcharging and luggage extras scam in Iran?
Shuttle drivers may inflate the fare or demand extra money for luggage even when there is space. Bags that occupy another passenger seat can also lead to an extra charge.
How can I spot it early?
The driver avoids giving a total price. A luggage charge appears after you have agreed to travel. You are asked to put your bag on an extra passenger seat.
How do I avoid airport shuttle overcharging and luggage extras in Iran?
Confirm the total fare, including luggage, before boarding. Keep yourself and your bags within one seat's space where possible. Ask about any charge before using another seat. Use the airport taxi counter if you want a clearly arranged alternative.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the driver to explain any charge that was not agreed. If you have not left and cannot agree, choose another ride.
Where in Iran does this happen?
Shared taxis between Imam Khomeini International Airport and Shahed metro station It has been reported in Tehran.
How common is this scam in Iran?
Common. Iran is described as a relatively low-crime country, but taxi overcharging, counterfeit money, fake police and theft can affect visitors. Take extra care when arranging fares, exchanging cash or moving through crowded bazaars, buses and places of worship. The frequency of most scams is not clear.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 110 or visit a police station. English-speaking operators are available on 110. A police station is called a kalantari. Card issuer or bank: use the issuer's official contact channel to report stolen cards, secure the account and ask about any disputed transactions. Embassy or consulate: contact your own country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and a record of the loss. Ride-hailing support: for a Snapp trip, contact its support line for help with driver communication. English-speaking support is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Iran?
Police: 110, Ambulance and emergency medical services: 115, Fire and rescue: 125, Iranian Red Crescent rescue and relief hotline: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck