Scam in IndonesiaShopping
Counterfeit branded goods in Indonesia
How it works
Both genuine and fake branded garments are sold. A familiar logo alone does not show that an item is genuine.
Warning signs
- The seller cannot explain the item's origin.
- The price seems too low for a genuine branded product.
How to avoid it
- Use official retailers when authenticity matters.
- Ask whether an item is genuine before paying.
- Keep the receipt and check return terms.
If it happens to you
Keep the item and receipt. Ask the retailer for a refund and contact your payment provider if the item was misrepresented.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or resist a threatening robber.
- If you are hurt or may have been drugged, seek urgent medical help. Call 112 or ambulance service 118.
- Freeze stolen or compromised cards. Contact your bank and secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages and vehicle details. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Report theft or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
- Contact the relevant operator, insurer or embassy for further help. Use your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you were detained.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Government advice2025such as footwear, apparel, food, detergents, cosmetics, fashion products, bags, watches, jewellery etc., have been reported again by several stakeholders.The European Commission document records stakeholder reports of large volumes of counterfeit goods sold at Indonesian marketplaces, including Bali markets catering to tourists.Read on Government advice
- Government adviceSafety and security - Indonesia travel advice - GOV.UKBritish authorities report criminal gangs producing counterfeit versions of familiar alcohol brands that may contain dangerous quantities of methanol.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the counterfeit branded goods scam in Indonesia?
Both genuine and fake branded garments are sold. A familiar logo alone does not show that an item is genuine.
How can I spot it early?
The seller cannot explain the item's origin. The price seems too low for a genuine branded product.
How do I avoid counterfeit branded goods in Indonesia?
Use official retailers when authenticity matters. Ask whether an item is genuine before paying. Keep the receipt and check return terms.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Keep the item and receipt. Ask the retailer for a refund and contact your payment provider if the item was misrepresented.
Where in Indonesia does this happen?
Clothing shopping in Jakarta It has been reported in Jakarta.
How common is this scam in Indonesia?
Occasional. Scams are rare in less touristy parts of Indonesia, but travellers should be more cautious in Bali, especially Kuta. Common problems include taxi overcharging, pushy sellers, pickpocketing and phone theft. ATM card copying, dishonest laundry weighing and drug offers linked to police are also reported.
Are there similar scams in Indonesia?
Yes: beach sellers using guilt and special-price claims, rigged laundry scales.
Who can I report it to?
Police (POLRI): call 110 or visit a police station to report theft, robbery or fraud. Ask for a written report or reference number. Emergency services: call 112 for immediate danger or urgent assistance. It routes to emergency services in most major cities; elsewhere it usually routes through police. Operators typically speak Indonesian, so ask someone to help if needed. Indonesian Police HQ: jl. Trunojoyo 3, South Jakarta. Telephone: +62 21 7218144. Jakarta Police HQ: jl. Jendral Sudirman No. 45, South Jakarta. Telephone: +62 21 5709261. Bandung police: call 110 or visit a local Polsek station. The city headquarters, Polrestabes, is in Central Bandung. The provincial headquarters, Polda, is in East Bandung. Banjarmasin Police HQ (Polresta Banjarmasin): jl. A Yani Km 3, Kebun Bunga. Telephone: +62 511 252037. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze the card and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi company, booking app or transport operator: use the official support channel. Provide the booking, vehicle details, receipts and a short account of what happened. Hotel or venue management: report missing property or suspected drink tampering promptly. Ask staff to preserve relevant records and help contact police. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of your loss. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help after passport theft or detention.
What number do I call in an emergency in Indonesia?
General emergency services: 112, Police (POLRI): 110, Ambulance: 118, Fire department: 113, Search and rescue: 115, Bandung ambulance: (022)118, Bandung fire brigade: (022)113.
Reviewed by @snuck