Scam in ItalyTaxis
Previous taxi fare left on the meter in Italy
How it works
The driver leaves the previous passenger's fare running. The taxi arrives with a large amount already on the meter. Phone-booked taxis do legitimately charge for the journey to collect you, which can make this trick harder to spot.
Warning signs
- The meter shows a large amount before you board.
- The driver cannot clearly explain the starting amount.
How to avoid it
- Check the meter before getting in.
- Ask about any amount already showing.
- Use a taxi rank when practical.
- Decline the ride if the starting amount is unexplained.
If it happens to you
If you have not boarded and the amount seems wrong, decline the taxi and take another.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. If you are threatened or need urgent help, call 112.
- If a card or card details were stolen, contact your card issuer immediately. Freeze or cancel the card and flag unauthorised payments.
- Write down what happened, the time and the location. Save receipts, journey details and any other evidence.
- Report the incident at a police station and ask for a copy of the report. In Rome, go to the Carabinieri station nearest where the theft happened.
- Contact your insurer. A police report helps support an insurance claim. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate.
- Secure any affected accounts and arrange replacement cards or documents. Do not chase a thief or put yourself at risk to recover property.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the previous taxi fare left on the meter scam in Italy?
The driver leaves the previous passenger's fare running. The taxi arrives with a large amount already on the meter. Phone-booked taxis do legitimately charge for the journey to collect you, which can make this trick harder to spot.
How can I spot it early?
The meter shows a large amount before you board. The driver cannot clearly explain the starting amount.
How do I avoid previous taxi fare left on the meter in Italy?
Check the meter before getting in. Ask about any amount already showing. Use a taxi rank when practical. Decline the ride if the starting amount is unexplained.
What should I do if it happens to me?
If you have not boarded and the amount seems wrong, decline the taxi and take another.
Where in Italy does this happen?
Taxis arriving after a phone booking. It has been reported in Rome.
How much can it cost me?
€15 or more may already be showing on arrival.
How common is this scam in Italy?
Common. Italy is generally safe, but tourist scams and petty theft are common in busy visitor areas. The main risks are pickpockets, taxi tricks, pushy street sellers and people offering unwanted help at ticket machines.
Are there similar scams in Italy?
Yes: taxi banknote switch, taxi route padding, fake taxis and costly limousine referrals.
Who can I report it to?
Polizia di Stato or Carabinieri: go to a police station to report a scam or theft. You can ask any police officer for help. Request a copy of the report for insurance and replacement documents. Carabinieri in Rome: for theft, generally visit the station nearest where it happened. Ask people nearby where to go. Emergency services: call 112 for urgent help or when unsure which service you need. The WhereAreU app can also call 112 and share your phone's GPS position, including when you cannot speak. Card issuer or bank: use its official app or contact number to freeze a stolen or compromised card and dispute unauthorised transactions. Travel insurer: contact its claims service and provide the police report, receipts and other evidence. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport or travel documents are stolen.
What number do I call in an emergency in Italy?
General emergency help: 112, Polizia di Stato — State Police: 113, Guardia di Finanza — Financial Police: 117, Fire Department: 115, Medical Rescue: 118, Coast Guard: 1530, State Forestry Department: 1515.
Reviewed by @snuck