Scam in BangladeshBuses and trains
Extra money demanded on arrival in Bangladesh
How it works
After reaching your destination, the driver asks for more than the agreed or metered fare.
Warning signs
- The driver changes the price during the ride.
- The amount demanded on arrival exceeds your agreement or the meter.
How to avoid it
- Agree the fare clearly before departure.
- Keep a record of the agreed amount.
- Confirm meter use before a metered journey begins.
If it happens to you
Stick to the agreed or metered fare and leave if it is safe. If you feel threatened, seek help and call 999.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or continue an argument that feels threatening.
- Call 999 for an emergency involving police, fire or an ambulance. Seek urgent medical help if you suspect drugging.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, agreed price and vehicle licence plate if known. Save receipts and screenshots.
- Freeze missing payment cards and contact your card issuer. Secure accounts on a stolen phone when possible.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number and keep a copy.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing or you need consular help, your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the extra money demanded on arrival scam in Bangladesh?
After reaching your destination, the driver asks for more than the agreed or metered fare.
How can I spot it early?
The driver changes the price during the ride. The amount demanded on arrival exceeds your agreement or the meter.
How do I avoid extra money demanded on arrival in Bangladesh?
Agree the fare clearly before departure. Keep a record of the agreed amount. Confirm meter use before a metered journey begins.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Stick to the agreed or metered fare and leave if it is safe. If you feel threatened, seek help and call 999.
Where in Bangladesh does this happen?
At the end of a journey in Dhaka. It has been reported in Dhaka.
How common is this scam in Bangladesh?
Occasional. Transport overcharging is a key scam risk in Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong. Other problems include small tourist markups, airport bribe demands, pickpocketing and bag theft. Most people are friendly, but take extra care with strangers' offers and late-night transport.
Are there similar scams in Bangladesh?
Yes: inflated fares and avoiding the meter, taking a longer route.
Who can I report it to?
Police, fire or ambulance: dial 999 from a Bangladeshi mobile phone number or landline for an emergency. Local police: report theft, threats, extortion or fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any receipts or vehicle details. Ask for a report or reference number. Khulna Metropolitan Police Control Room: the listed local number is 20220. For an emergency, use 999. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence.
What number do I call in an emergency in Bangladesh?
Police, fire and ambulance: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck