Scam in EgyptTaxis
No-change taxi trick in Egypt
How it works
A driver says they have no change and leaves with more than the agreed fare. Small change is genuinely scarce, so preparation helps avoid both tricks and ordinary disputes.
Warning signs
- You need substantial change and the driver will not confirm they have it.
How to avoid it
- Carry small notes and prepare the exact fare.
- Check change availability before handing over a large note.
- Where available, pay for an app-booked ride through the app.
If it happens to you
Ask for the balance before the driver leaves. If the car has gone, record its identifying details and report the loss when practical.
- Get to a safe, public place. End the interaction calmly and do not chase a thief.
- Check whether anyone needs medical help. Call 123 for an ambulance if there is an urgent medical problem.
- Block missing cards and report unauthorised payments to your card issuer. Secure affected accounts and a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, booking details, messages and payment records. Write down the time, location, amount and any vehicle or seller details.
- Report crime to police or a Tourism Police kiosk in a tourist area. Call 122 if you need urgent police assistance, and ask for a report reference.
- Contact your insurer, booking platform or transport operator as relevant. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing or you need consular help.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the no-change taxi trick scam in Egypt?
A driver says they have no change and leaves with more than the agreed fare. Small change is genuinely scarce, so preparation helps avoid both tricks and ordinary disputes.
How can I spot it early?
You need substantial change and the driver will not confirm they have it.
How do I avoid no-change taxi trick in Egypt?
Carry small notes and prepare the exact fare. Check change availability before handing over a large note. Where available, pay for an app-booked ride through the app.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for the balance before the driver leaves. If the car has gone, record its identifying details and report the loss when practical.
Where in Egypt does this happen?
Taxi journeys, especially when paying with a large note.
How common is this scam in Egypt?
Occasional. Tourist scams and persistent sales pressure are common in Egypt, especially in Luxor and busy tourist areas in Cairo. The main problems are inflated fares, shop diversions, misleading sales claims and demands for payment after unwanted help. Pickpocketing also happens, while reports of drink spiking in budget accommodation deserve particular care.
Are there similar scams in Egypt?
Yes: inflated taxi fares and unused meters, fake taxis, a cheap taxi ride becomes an expensive tour.
Who can I report it to?
Police: call 122 for urgent police assistance. Report theft, threats or suspected fraud and ask for a report reference. Tourism Police: look for a designated Tourism Police kiosk in a tourist area. Explain what happened and show any receipts or other evidence. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to block a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Ride-hailing app, transport operator or booking platform: use its official support channel. Include the booking, driver messages, receipt and agreed price. Travel insurer: contact the claims or emergency-assistance service listed in your policy. Keep police references and supporting documents. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for a lost passport, detention or serious crime. Ask what consular help is available.
What number do I call in an emergency in Egypt?
Police: 122, Ambulance: 123, Fire: 180, Highway: 136.
Reviewed by @snuck