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Few scams

Eastern Asia

Tourist scams in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is generally very safe, and petty crime happens from time to time. Visitors should watch for taxi overcharging, pickpockets in crowds and suspicious phone calls.
  1. 1 TaxisOccasionalTaxi overchargingA driver charges more than the proper fare or adds an unjustified fee. Some extra charges are valid, including tunnel tolls, luggage in the boot and telephone bookings.Taxi journeys 3Read
  2. 2 TheftOccasionalPickpocketing in crowdsA thief takes belongings from your pocket or bag while you are in a crowd.Crowded areas, especially public transport during peak hours 3Read
  3. 3 Other tricksOccasionalSuspicious phone callsYou receive a phone call that you suspect is a scam.Across the country 3Read

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • There are no late-night, peak-hour, airport or city-centre surcharges. Tunnel tolls are extra.
  • Luggage in the boot costs HK$5 per piece, even if you load it yourself. Wheelchairs are exempt.
  • A telephone booking through an operator costs HK$5.
  • For harbour crossings, return tunnel tolls can be valid. Cross-harbour taxi ranks apply only a single toll charge.
  • Carry HK$100 notes or smaller. Drivers must provide change for HK$100, but not for larger notes.

Your belongings

  • Keep bags fastened and close to your body.
  • Pay extra attention on crowded public transport during peak hours.
  • Keep a separate record of important documents and card issuer contact details.

Money

  • Carry some cash because some street vendors expect it.
  • Keep cash in more than one place.
  • Check the amount before paying and keep receipts for disputed purchases or fares.

Cards and ATMs

  • Check the amount on a payment terminal before approving it.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere you can reach if your phone or wallet is stolen.
  • Freeze a missing card as soon as you notice it is gone.

Police and officials

  • Police officers must carry their warrant cards on duty and show them when asked.
  • Ask for an English-speaking interpreter if you cannot understand an officer.
  • Never offer a bribe. Police corruption is exceedingly rare, and bribery is a crime.

What travellers say about Hong Kong

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Hong Kong a high-risk place for tourist scams?

No. Hong Kong is generally very safe, and violent crime is extremely rare. Taxi overcharging, occasional petty theft and suspicious phone calls are the main concerns covered here.

Where should I be most careful about pickpockets?

In crowded areas, especially on public transport during peak hours. Keep your bag closed and your phone and wallet secure.

Can taxis charge extra at night or during busy hours?

No. There are no late-night or peak-hour surcharges. There is also no special surcharge for airport travel or travel within the centre.

Which taxi extras are legitimate?

Tunnel tolls, HK$5 per piece of luggage in the boot and a HK$5 telephone booking fee can be valid. Wheelchairs are exempt from the luggage charge. Harbour crossings can also include return tunnel tolls.

Does a taxi driver have to give me a receipt?

Yes, on request. Keep it if you want to question the fare. Record the driver's name and licence plate, then contact the Transport Complaints Unit at +852-2889-9999.

Will a taxi driver change a large banknote?

Drivers must provide change for HK$100 notes, but not larger notes. Carry smaller notes. If you only have HK$500 or HK$1,000 and will pass through a tunnel, tell the driver beforehand.

What should I do about a suspicious phone call?

End the call, avoid sharing private information and check any claim independently. Call 18222 within Hong Kong for advice about suspected scam calls.

How can I check a police officer's identity?

Ask to see their warrant card. All officers must carry one while on duty and show it on request. Ask for an English-speaking interpreter if needed.

What should I do if my wallet or cards are stolen?

Move somewhere safe, freeze the cards and contact your bank or card issuer. Report the theft to the police and keep the report details for your insurer.

Who should I call if I need urgent help?

Call 999 for police, fire or ambulance help. Operators can speak English. If you do not know your location, give the number on the nearest lamppost.

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