Scam in BangladeshBuses and trains
Taking a longer route in Bangladesh
How it works
A driver claims to know the destination but takes a longer route. This can waste time and may increase a metered fare.
Warning signs
- The driver claims local knowledge but seems unsure of the destination.
- The route appears unnecessarily long.
How to avoid it
- Confirm that the driver knows the destination before setting off.
- Carry your accommodation's name and actual address.
- Follow the route on your phone if possible.
If it happens to you
Ask the driver to confirm the destination and route. If you feel unsafe, seek help in a busy place.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or continue an argument that feels threatening.
- Call 999 for an emergency involving police, fire or an ambulance. Seek urgent medical help if you suspect drugging.
- Write down what happened, including the time, place, agreed price and vehicle licence plate if known. Save receipts and screenshots.
- Freeze missing payment cards and contact your card issuer. Secure accounts on a stolen phone when possible.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number and keep a copy.
- Contact your insurer and, if your passport is missing or you need consular help, your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- News2017Complaints against ride-hailing services rising in DhakaA passenger reports a lengthy detour followed by a demand for Tk300 despite the app displaying Tk138.Read on News
- News2018Complaints pile up over ridesharing servicesA regular Uber passenger complains that drivers depart from the mapped route and charge extra for travelling in the wrong direction.Read on News
Questions
What is the taking a longer route scam in Bangladesh?
A driver claims to know the destination but takes a longer route. This can waste time and may increase a metered fare.
How can I spot it early?
The driver claims local knowledge but seems unsure of the destination. The route appears unnecessarily long.
How do I avoid taking a longer route in Bangladesh?
Confirm that the driver knows the destination before setting off. Carry your accommodation's name and actual address. Follow the route on your phone if possible.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask the driver to confirm the destination and route. If you feel unsafe, seek help in a busy place.
Where in Bangladesh does this happen?
Road journeys in Dhaka. It has been reported in Dhaka.
How common is this scam in Bangladesh?
Occasional. Transport overcharging is a key scam risk in Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong. Other problems include small tourist markups, airport bribe demands, pickpocketing and bag theft. Most people are friendly, but take extra care with strangers' offers and late-night transport.
Are there similar scams in Bangladesh?
Yes: inflated fares and avoiding the meter, extra money demanded on arrival.
Who can I report it to?
Police, fire or ambulance: dial 999 from a Bangladeshi mobile phone number or landline for an emergency. Local police: report theft, threats, extortion or fraud. Provide the location, time, description and any receipts or vehicle details. Ask for a report or reference number. Khulna Metropolitan Police Control Room: the listed local number is 20220. For an emergency, use 999. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze a missing card and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular assistance. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and other evidence.
What number do I call in an emergency in Bangladesh?
Police, fire and ambulance: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck