Scam in HungaryTaxis
Nightclub taxi diversion in Hungary
How it works
A driver takes you to a different venue that pays them a commission. You may also be charged far more than the normal taxi fare.
Warning signs
- The driver tries to change your chosen venue.
- You arrive somewhere other than the address you gave.
How to avoid it
- Book your own taxi through a major company.
- Give the exact venue name and address.
- Make clear that you do not want a different destination.
- Check your destination during the ride.
If it happens to you
Ask to stop at a safe public place if you feel uncomfortable. Keep the journey details and report the diversion or fare dispute.
- Move to a safe public place. If you are threatened or in immediate danger, call 112.
- Freeze missing cards through your bank's app or contact your card issuer. Check for unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, booking records, screenshots and the time and location. Record vehicle or business details if safe.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or a copy for your insurer.
- Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is stolen. Tell your travel insurer about any covered loss.
- For disputed bills or fares, contact the business or taxi company. Ask your card issuer about a payment dispute if relevant.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- TripadvisorBudapest Forum2007Club 69 - Scam - Budapest ForumA group reports being steered toward Club 69 by a taxi driver offering vouchers and later concludes that the recommendation was part of a commission-driven scam.Read on Tripadvisor
- Government adviceSafety and security - Hungary travel advice - GOV.UKUK authorities warn that some taxi drivers receive commissions for taking passengers to bars and clubs involved in inflated-bill fraud.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the nightclub taxi diversion scam in Hungary?
A driver takes you to a different venue that pays them a commission. You may also be charged far more than the normal taxi fare.
How can I spot it early?
The driver tries to change your chosen venue. You arrive somewhere other than the address you gave.
How do I avoid nightclub taxi diversion in Hungary?
Book your own taxi through a major company. Give the exact venue name and address. Make clear that you do not want a different destination. Check your destination during the ride.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask to stop at a safe public place if you feel uncomfortable. Keep the journey details and report the diversion or fare dispute.
Where in Hungary does this happen?
Taxi journeys to or from nightclubs. It has been reported in Budapest.
How much can it cost me?
Reported fares can reach up to 10 times the normal amount.
How common is this scam in Hungary?
Occasional. Hungary is generally very safe, but tourists can face pickpocketing, taxi tricks and inflated bills. The main warnings concern Budapest, especially Váci utca, transport hubs and taxis used around nightclubs.
Are there similar scams in Hungary?
Yes: worthless taxi change, inflated taxi fares and driver touts, taxi meter manipulation.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 112 if you are in immediate danger or need urgent help. Police: report theft, fraud or threats to police. The police number is 107. Bring any receipts, booking details and a list of missing items. Budapest TourInform complaint and assistance office: visit Sütő Street 2, District V. The office is described as open 24/7 and able to receive complaints and help in English and German. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's app or its official contact number to freeze stolen cards, report unauthorised payments or ask about a payment dispute. Taxi company or business: use the contact details in your booking or on your receipt. Provide the journey or purchase details and explain the disputed amount. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen. Travel insurer: contact your insurer through its claims service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Hungary?
General emergency: 112, Police: 107, Ambulance: 104, Fire: 105.
Reviewed by @snuck