Scam in MongoliaTaxis
Robbery during an unmarked taxi ride in Mongolia
How it works
A driver takes a passenger into a dark alley and demands their phone or cash. Unmarked taxis are common, but this robbery method has been reported.
Warning signs
- The driver turns towards a dark or deserted alley.
- The route stops matching the destination you agreed on.
How to avoid it
- Watch where the taxi is taking you.
- Have a local person help explain your destination and fare.
- Arrange your ride before drinking.
- Avoid taking an unfamiliar taxi alone when drunk.
If it happens to you
Do not fight over your phone or cash. Get to a safe public place when you can. Report the robbery at the district police station and tell your embassy.
- Get to a safe, public place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- Check for injuries and seek medical help if needed.
- Block stolen cards immediately. If your phone is missing, secure your banking and other important accounts.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, booking records, messages and any vehicle details you already have.
- Report theft or assault at the district police station. Ask for a copy or reference for your report.
- Tell your embassy if you were attacked, lost your passport or need help. Contact your insurer and the relevant payment or booking provider.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the robbery during an unmarked taxi ride scam in Mongolia?
A driver takes a passenger into a dark alley and demands their phone or cash. Unmarked taxis are common, but this robbery method has been reported.
How can I spot it early?
The driver turns towards a dark or deserted alley. The route stops matching the destination you agreed on.
How do I avoid robbery during an unmarked taxi ride in Mongolia?
Watch where the taxi is taking you. Have a local person help explain your destination and fare. Arrange your ride before drinking. Avoid taking an unfamiliar taxi alone when drunk.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Do not fight over your phone or cash. Get to a safe public place when you can. Report the robbery at the district police station and tell your embassy.
Where in Mongolia does this happen?
Unmarked taxis that divert into dark alleys, especially when carrying drunk tourists. It has been reported in Ulaanbaatar.
How common is this scam in Mongolia?
Occasional. Mongolia is generally safe to visit, but theft is a concern, especially in Ulaanbaatar. Pickpocketing is the main problem for visitors; taxi overcharging, bag slashing and occasional robberies also occur. Some higher prices are regular pricing practices rather than scams.
Are there similar scams in Mongolia?
Yes: taxi fare overcharging.
Who can I report it to?
District police station: go to the district police station to make a formal statement after an attack or pickpocketing. Bring any records and ask for a report reference. Your country's embassy: tell your embassy after an attack or pickpocketing. It can also advise you if your passport is stolen. Card issuer or bank: use your bank's official app or contact number to block stolen cards and report payments you did not authorise. Travel insurer: contact your insurer promptly. Keep police records, receipts and evidence of your loss. Taxi service, airline or booking provider: report a disputed charge through the provider's official contact channel. Include your agreed price, receipt and booking details.
Reviewed by @snuck