Scam in IndonesiaTaxis
Taxi change withheld in Indonesia
How it works
The driver says they cannot change a large note. You may have to round up the fare and lose the difference.
Warning signs
- You have only large notes.
- The driver cannot confirm that change is available.
How to avoid it
- Carry smaller notes for taxi fares.
- Ask about change before handing over a large note.
- If needed, arrange a stop to obtain change.
If it happens to you
Ask to get change at a nearby shop or other safe stop before settling the fare.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase a thief or resist a threatening robber.
- If you are hurt or may have been drugged, seek urgent medical help. Call 112 or ambulance service 118.
- Freeze stolen or compromised cards. Contact your bank and secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Save receipts, booking records, messages and vehicle details. Write down the time, place and what happened.
- Report theft or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
- Contact the relevant operator, insurer or embassy for further help. Use your embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you were detained.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- News2011The Alston (family) guide to Bali | The West AustralianThe family travel guide warns that Bali taxi drivers may claim they have no change and recommends paying with the exact amount.Read on News
- TripadvisorBluebird Taxi Bali reviews2026Bluebird Taxi Bali - All You SHOULD Know Before You Go 2026 (w/ Reviews & Photos)A reviewer says a driver introduced an alleged minimum fare only after being asked to return change.Read on Tripadvisor
Questions
What is the taxi change withheld scam in Indonesia?
The driver says they cannot change a large note. You may have to round up the fare and lose the difference.
How can I spot it early?
You have only large notes. The driver cannot confirm that change is available.
How do I avoid taxi change withheld in Indonesia?
Carry smaller notes for taxi fares. Ask about change before handing over a large note. If needed, arrange a stop to obtain change.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask to get change at a nearby shop or other safe stop before settling the fare.
Where in Indonesia does this happen?
Taxis in Kuta It has been reported in Kuta.
How common is this scam in Indonesia?
Occasional. Scams are rare in less touristy parts of Indonesia, but travellers should be more cautious in Bali, especially Kuta. Common problems include taxi overcharging, pushy sellers, pickpocketing and phone theft. ATM card copying, dishonest laundry weighing and drug offers linked to police are also reported.
Are there similar scams in Indonesia?
Yes: taxi meter refusal and inflated fixed fares, taxi detours to increase the fare, fake Blue Bird and Bali Taksi lookalikes.
Who can I report it to?
Police (POLRI): call 110 or visit a police station to report theft, robbery or fraud. Ask for a written report or reference number. Emergency services: call 112 for immediate danger or urgent assistance. It routes to emergency services in most major cities; elsewhere it usually routes through police. Operators typically speak Indonesian, so ask someone to help if needed. Indonesian Police HQ: jl. Trunojoyo 3, South Jakarta. Telephone: +62 21 7218144. Jakarta Police HQ: jl. Jendral Sudirman No. 45, South Jakarta. Telephone: +62 21 5709261. Bandung police: call 110 or visit a local Polsek station. The city headquarters, Polrestabes, is in Central Bandung. The provincial headquarters, Polda, is in East Bandung. Banjarmasin Police HQ (Polresta Banjarmasin): jl. A Yani Km 3, Kebun Bunga. Telephone: +62 511 252037. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact number to freeze the card and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi company, booking app or transport operator: use the official support channel. Provide the booking, vehicle details, receipts and a short account of what happened. Hotel or venue management: report missing property or suspected drink tampering promptly. Ask staff to preserve relevant records and help contact police. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of your loss. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help after passport theft or detention.
What number do I call in an emergency in Indonesia?
General emergency services: 112, Police (POLRI): 110, Ambulance: 118, Fire department: 113, Search and rescue: 115, Bandung ambulance: (022)118, Bandung fire brigade: (022)113.
Reviewed by @snuck