Short change and disputes over cash paid in India

Someone gives you too little change or claims you handed over less money than you did. This can also happen at official counters. It occurs across India and is highlighted as a particular problem in Delhi.

The person rushes the payment. Your change is handed back without being counted. The person disputes the amount you just paid.

Count your money before handing it over. Use exact change where possible. Check your change before leaving. Keep small notes and coins for small purchases.

Point out the difference calmly. If the person denies what you paid and the situation becomes uncomfortable, leave rather than prolonging the argument.

Shops, tourist attractions, museums and prepaid taxi counters, including airport counters It has been reported in Delhi.

Very common. Scams and touts are common in India's tourist areas, especially in Delhi and around transport hubs. Common problems include inflated fares, short change, false claims about hotels, fake ticket offices and pressure to buy goods or tours. India is generally safe for foreign visitors who take basic precautions against petty crime and theft.

Yes: unusable banknotes passed as change, poor-value currency exchange.

Emergency services: call 112 for immediate danger or urgent police, fire or ambulance help. Give your location and speak slowly. Nearest police station: visit in person for non-emergency crimes. For a serious crime, insist on a first information report, or FIR, and obtain a copy. Local police cybercell: make a complaint about internet scams, card skimming or other cybercrime. Bring transaction records and saved messages. National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: use the government portal to report cybercrime. Keep a record of your complaint. Ministry of Tourism helpline: call 1363 or 1800-11-1363 for tourist assistance. The helpline operates 24 hours a day. Bank, card issuer or payment provider: use its official app or contact number to block compromised cards or accounts, flag the fraud and ask about disputed payments. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate through its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. Travel insurer: report the loss promptly. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the stolen items or disputed payments. Bengaluru auto-rickshaw complaint service: record the driver's identification number. A BBMP control room contact is listed as +91 80 22975803, but it dates from December 2009. Confirm that it still handles these complaints before relying on it.

National emergency services: police, fire and ambulance: 112, Ministry of Tourism 24-hour tourist assistance: 1363, Ministry of Tourism alternative helpline: 1800-11-1363.