Scam in JordanTaxis
An extra old-meter surcharge on a new meter in Jordan
How it works
Some older meters start at a lower rate, so a small extra charge is legitimate. A driver with a newer meter may try to claim the same extra charge even though it is already included.
Warning signs
- The meter starts at 250 fils, but the driver later asks for the old-meter adjustment.
How to avoid it
- Check the starting amount as soon as the meter turns on.
- Remember that the adjustment applies to the older 150-fils starting rate.
If it happens to you
Point out the starting amount you saw and question the extra charge.
- 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 an extra old-meter surcharge on a new meter scam in Jordan?
Some older meters start at a lower rate, so a small extra charge is legitimate. A driver with a newer meter may try to claim the same extra charge even though it is already included.
How can I spot it early?
The meter starts at 250 fils, but the driver later asks for the old-meter adjustment.
How do I avoid an extra old-meter surcharge on a new meter in Jordan?
Check the starting amount as soon as the meter turns on. Remember that the adjustment applies to the older 150-fils starting rate.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Point out the starting amount you saw and question the extra charge.
Where in Jordan does this happen?
Metered taxis in Amman. It has been reported in Amman.
How much can it cost me?
The disputed extra is 10 piastres, or 100 fils. Older meters start at 150 fils; the newer base rate is 250 fils.
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