Scam in MacauTaxis
Taxi meter refusal and refusal of carriage in Macau
How it works
Taxi misconduct includes failing to use the meter or refusing to carry a passenger. A ride without the meter leaves you open to a fare dispute.
Warning signs
- The driver will not use the meter.
- The driver refuses your requested journey.
How to avoid it
- Check that the meter is running when the journey starts.
- Have your destination written in Chinese.
- Ask a bilingual hotel or casino employee to explain your destination.
If it happens to you
Record the taxi details if safe. Report misconduct to the Public Security Police on +853-2837-4214, then press 1.
- Move to a safe public place. Avoid chasing or confronting anyone.
- Check what was taken or shared. Freeze missing cards and contact your bank about any payment fraud.
- Save messages, receipts and booking details. Write down the time, location and vehicle details while you remember them.
- Report theft or fraud to police. Use the specific taxi or suspicious-message contact below when relevant.
- Contact your insurer if you plan to claim. Ask what evidence and police paperwork it needs.
- If your passport was stolen, contact your embassy or consulate for help with replacement travel documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/Macau2024[deleted by user]Commenters report occasional meter refusal and past refusals of short journeys, while noting improvements following the introduction of onboard cameras.Read on Reddit
- News2023Police, Transport Bureau vow to continue to tackle taxi violationsPolice and transport authorities announced enforcement against taxi violations including refusal of carriage, fare bargaining and overcharging.Read on News
- Government advice2026Macau Travel Advice & Safety | SmartravellerAustralian government travel advice tells visitors to use licensed taxis and insist that drivers use the meter.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the taxi meter refusal and refusal of carriage scam in Macau?
Taxi misconduct includes failing to use the meter or refusing to carry a passenger. A ride without the meter leaves you open to a fare dispute.
How can I spot it early?
The driver will not use the meter. The driver refuses your requested journey.
How do I avoid taxi meter refusal and refusal of carriage in Macau?
Check that the meter is running when the journey starts. Have your destination written in Chinese. Ask a bilingual hotel or casino employee to explain your destination.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Record the taxi details if safe. Report misconduct to the Public Security Police on +853-2837-4214, then press 1.
Where in Macau does this happen?
Across Macau
How common is this scam in Macau?
Occasional. Macau is relatively safe, but visitors should watch for pickpockets, taxi misconduct and touts offering cheap rides. A widespread lost-wallet scam targets people downtown, while scam messages have also been reported at Portas do Cerco.
Are there similar scams in Macau?
Yes: unlicensed taxi services.
Who can I report it to?
Public Security Police — taxi misconduct: call +853-2837-4214 and press 1 after connection. An officer will answer. Report issues such as failure to use the meter or refusal of carriage. Transport Bureau — unlicensed taxis: call +853-8866-6363 to report an unlicensed taxi. Suspicious call or message enquiry line: call +853-8800-7777 to enquire about suspicious phone calls or messages. Police — theft or fraud: report the incident and provide any messages, receipts, location details or vehicle information you saved. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or a trusted contact number to freeze cards, report unauthorised payments and ask about recovery options. Embassy or consulate: contact your country's embassy or consulate if your passport was stolen or you need help replacing travel documents. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through your policy details. Keep receipts and request any police paperwork required for a claim.
Reviewed by @snuck