Scam in Costa RicaTaxis
Taxi meter already running in Costa Rica
How it works
The meter has been running before you get in, so you start the trip paying for time or distance you did not use.
Warning signs
- The meter is already running when you enter.
- The starting amount appears unusually high.
How to avoid it
- Look at the meter before the trip starts.
- Ask the driver to reset it if it was already running.
- Resolve any starting-fare concern before leaving.
If it happens to you
Point out the starting amount and ask for a correction. Keep the taxi number and trip details if you need to complain.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Call 911 if you face immediate danger. Do not chase a thief or fight over belongings.
- Write down what happened. Save receipts, booking details, messages, vehicle numbers and the time and place.
- Freeze or block missing cards through your card issuer. Secure accounts linked to a stolen phone.
- Report theft or fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or written record for insurance.
- Contact the relevant hotel, transport provider or seller. For a stolen rental vehicle, contact the rental company.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the taxi meter already running scam in Costa Rica?
The meter has been running before you get in, so you start the trip paying for time or distance you did not use.
How can I spot it early?
The meter is already running when you enter. The starting amount appears unusually high.
How do I avoid taxi meter already running in Costa Rica?
Look at the meter before the trip starts. Ask the driver to reset it if it was already running. Resolve any starting-fare concern before leaving.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Point out the starting amount and ask for a correction. Keep the taxi number and trip details if you need to complain.
Where in Costa Rica does this happen?
Taxis across Costa Rica
How common is this scam in Costa Rica?
Occasional. Tourists can face taxi overcharging, unlicensed drivers, false offers of help and petty theft in Costa Rica. Be especially careful at airport exits, around bus terminals and with unattended bags or parked cars. Some tourist shops and airport food outlets also charge very high prices.
Are there similar scams in Costa Rica?
Yes: taxi meter left off, unlicensed taxis and airport luggage pressure, drivers pretending to be Uber.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 911 for immediate danger or an emergency. Police: report theft or fraud. Bring the time, location, evidence and any vehicle details. Ask for a written record or report reference. Card issuer: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact details to block a missing card and dispute unauthorized charges. Hotel management, transport provider or seller: report the incident promptly. Provide receipts, booking details or the taxi number, and ask for a written response. Rental company: contact the company promptly if a rental vehicle is stolen or damaged. Follow its reporting instructions. Travel insurer: use the contact details in your policy. Keep receipts and police records to support a claim. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need help replacing travel documents.
What number do I call in an emergency in Costa Rica?
Emergency services: 911.
Reviewed by @snuck