Scam in CyprusTaxis
Taxi overcharging without a meter in Cyprus
How it works
A driver leaves the meter off, making the fare harder to check. You may then face a higher charge at the end of the journey.
Warning signs
- The meter is off when the journey begins.
- The driver starts moving before confirming how the fare will be charged.
How to avoid it
- In Nicosia, make sure the meter is switched on as soon as you enter.
- In Ayia Napa, use the meter or agree the total fare before departure.
- Choose another taxi if the driver will not confirm the fare arrangement.
If it happens to you
Ask for an itemised receipt and note the vehicle details. If you cannot resolve the dispute safely, report it to police.
- Get to a safe place. Do not chase a thief or argue with someone who threatens you.
- Seek medical help if you are injured or feel unexpectedly unwell after a drink.
- Block stolen cards promptly. If your phone is missing, secure your accounts and contact your mobile provider.
- Save receipts, payment records and messages. Write down the time, place and any vehicle or venue details.
- Report theft, threats or suspected fraud to police. Ask for a report reference or copy.
- Contact your insurer and, if documents are 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.
- TripadvisorCyprus ForumPaphos Taxis - Cyprus ForumA forum contributor reported Paphos drivers demanding arbitrary fares without using meters despite displaying official fare information.Read on Tripadvisor
- Government advice2026Cyprus travel adviceCanada warns that taxi passengers may be overcharged and advises agreeing a fare beforehand or insisting on the meter.Read on Government advice
- Redditr/cyprus2023Taxis on strikeCommenters alleged that drivers inflate tourist fares without using meters, with one reporting hearing a tourist quoted €200 for Ayia Napa.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the taxi overcharging without a meter scam in Cyprus?
A driver leaves the meter off, making the fare harder to check. You may then face a higher charge at the end of the journey.
How can I spot it early?
The meter is off when the journey begins. The driver starts moving before confirming how the fare will be charged.
How do I avoid taxi overcharging without a meter in Cyprus?
In Nicosia, make sure the meter is switched on as soon as you enter. In Ayia Napa, use the meter or agree the total fare before departure. Choose another taxi if the driver will not confirm the fare arrangement.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Ask for an itemised receipt and note the vehicle details. If you cannot resolve the dispute safely, report it to police.
Where in Cyprus does this happen?
Taxi journeys in Nicosia and Ayia Napa It has been reported in Nicosia, Ayia Napa.
How common is this scam in Cyprus?
Common. Cyprus has low crime rates, but visitors can face taxi overcharging, pushy nightlife promoters and petty theft. Take extra care with drinks from strangers in Ayia Napa, where muggings have been reported.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, mugging, threats or suspected fraud. Give the location, time, description and any receipts or payment records. Ask for a report reference. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or a verified contact number to block stolen cards and report unauthorised transactions. Embassy, consulate or high commission: contact your home country's representatives if your passport is stolen or you need consular help. If detained, explicitly ask authorities to inform them. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep the police report, receipts and evidence of the loss.
Reviewed by @snuck