Questionable taxi extra charges in Singapore: how to avoid it

How it works

A driver may request an extra charge that you suspect is wrong. Singapore taxis are generally honest, and many extra charges are legitimate. Check the meter, window sticker and receipt before treating a charge as a scam.

Warning signs

An extra charge is not explained by the fare information.
The amount requested does not match the meter or receipt.
A driver claims there is an airport surcharge simply for taking you to the airport.

How to avoid it

Use a metered taxi or agree to a fixed fare through the booking app.
Read the fare sticker on the window.
Check extra charges on the meter and ask for a printed receipt.
Call the taxi company if a charge seems wrong.

If it happens to you

Keep the receipt and journey details. Call the taxi company and ask it to explain the charge.

Move to a safe place. Call 999 if you face immediate danger.
Contact your card issuer immediately if a card, card details or payment account may be at risk. Ask about blocking access and disputing the payment.
Save receipts, messages, booking details and screenshots. Write down what happened while you remember it.
Report theft or fraud to the Singapore Police Force as soon as possible. Use 1799 for a police scam enquiry.
For a shop dispute, call 1800-736-2000. For a taxi charge, contact the taxi company with your receipt.
Contact your insurer if you may claim for a loss. If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for replacement 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 questionable taxi extra charges scam in Singapore?

A driver may request an extra charge that you suspect is wrong. Singapore taxis are generally honest, and many extra charges are legitimate. Check the meter, window sticker and receipt before treating a charge as a scam.

How can I spot it early?

An extra charge is not explained by the fare information. The amount requested does not match the meter or receipt. A driver claims there is an airport surcharge simply for taking you to the airport.

How do I avoid questionable taxi extra charges in Singapore?

Use a metered taxi or agree to a fixed fare through the booking app. Read the fare sticker on the window. Check extra charges on the meter and ask for a printed receipt. Call the taxi company if a charge seems wrong.

What should I do if it happens to me?

Keep the receipt and journey details. Call the taxi company and ask it to explain the charge.

How common is this scam in Singapore?

Occasional. Singapore has a low risk of tourist scams. Most taxi drivers and shopkeepers are honest, but watch for bogus monks asking for donations, shop rip-offs, disputed taxi charges and pickpockets in crowds.

Who can I report it to?

Singapore Police Force: report crimes as soon as possible. Call 999 for an emergency, or use emergency SMS on 71999. Police scam enquiry: call 1799. Local call rates apply. Singapore Tourism Board: for a shop rip-off, call the free domestic hotline on 1800-736-2000. Small Claims Tribunal: at 1 Havelock Square. An expedited process for tourists can resolve simple cases within 24 hours. Taxi company: contact the operator shown on your taxi or receipt. Ask it to explain disputed charges and provide your journey details. Card issuer or payment provider: use its official app or contact number to report unauthorised payments, block cards and ask about a dispute. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen.

What number do I call in an emergency in Singapore?

Police emergency: 999, Police emergency SMS: 71999, Police scam enquiry: 1799, Ambulance and fire emergency: 995, Ambulance and fire emergency SMS for deaf people: 70995.