Scam in SyriaTaxis
Fake taxis that lock away your bags in Syria
How it works
Cars posing as taxis wait near bus terminals and may charge several times the usual fare. Often, one person distracts you while the driver puts your bags in the boot and locks it. This gives them control of your luggage before you have agreed to the ride.
Warning signs
- One person distracts you while another handles your bags.
- Your luggage is loaded before you agree to the journey.
- The car is not clearly marked as a licensed taxi.
How to avoid it
- Move away from the bus terminal before finding a taxi.
- Keep hold of your bags until you have chosen the car and agreed to the meter or fare.
- In Damascus, look for the Governorate logo on the side and a number on the roof sign.
- Do not let a stranger rush you into a car.
If it happens to you
Ask for your bags back before discussing a journey. If they refuse or threaten you, seek help from terminal staff or police. Avoid a physical struggle.
- Get to a safe, staffed place. If someone threatens you, avoid arguing or fighting over money or belongings.
- Write down what happened, including the time, location, amount paid and any vehicle or business details. Save receipts and messages.
- If a card or phone is missing, contact the card issuer to freeze cards and secure affected accounts.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to local police. Ask for a written report or reference number if available.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need help finding local assistance.
- Tell your insurer promptly and keep copies of reports, receipts and other evidence needed for a claim.
Questions
What is the fake taxis that lock away your bags scam in Syria?
Cars posing as taxis wait near bus terminals and may charge several times the usual fare. Often, one person distracts you while the driver puts your bags in the boot and locks it. This gives them control of your luggage before you have agreed to the ride.
How can I spot it early?
One person distracts you while another handles your bags. Your luggage is loaded before you agree to the journey. The car is not clearly marked as a licensed taxi.
How do I avoid fake taxis that lock away your bags in Syria?
Move away from the bus terminal before finding a taxi. Keep hold of your bags until you have chosen the car and agreed to the meter or fare. In Damascus, look for the Governorate logo on the side and a number on the roof sign. Do not let a stranger rush you into a car.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for your bags back before discussing a journey. If they refuse or threaten you, seek help from terminal staff or police. Avoid a physical struggle.
Where in Syria does this happen?
Next to bus terminals in Damascus. It has been reported in Damascus.
How common is this scam in Syria?
Occasional. Taxi overcharging is a common concern in Syria, especially when drivers bargain with foreign visitors instead of using the meter. Other reported problems include fake taxis at Damascus bus terminals, begging tricks, poor exchange rates and tourist shopping markups. Conflict and political tensions pose separate, serious risks; this scam guide does not establish that an area is safe to visit.
Are there similar scams in Syria?
Yes: taxi overcharging and unused meters.
Who can I report it to?
Local police: report theft, threats, assault or suspected fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any evidence. No local reporting number or specialist police unit is provided. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a missing card and report any unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a lost passport or serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service listed in your policy. Keep receipts and any police report. Taxi app or booking provider: if the journey was booked through a service, report the fare dispute through its official support channel and save the booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck