Scam in MacauTaxis
Unlicensed taxi services in Macau
How it works
Unlicensed drivers offer taxi services. Ride-sharing services such as Uber, Lyft and Grab are not available in Macau, and such services are illegal there.
Warning signs
- Someone offers you an unlicensed taxi ride.
- A ride is presented as a local Uber, Lyft or Grab service.
How to avoid it
- Use a proper taxi or public transport.
- Use established taxi ranks when possible.
If it happens to you
Report an unlicensed taxi to the Transport Bureau on +853-8866-6363.
- 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.
- News2015Uber ‘closely related’ to illegal taxis says Macau’s transport chiefMacau transport and police officials warned that carrying paying passengers in vehicles without the appropriate taxi licence was illegal.Read on News
- Travel blog2026Macau Taxi Guide for Tourists 2026: App, Fares & How to Ride | Trip.comThe tourist transport guide warns about unmarked private vehicles soliciting passengers outside the Border Gate, airport and Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.Read on Travel blog
- Government advice2026Macau Travel Advice & Safety | SmartravellerAustralian government travel advice recommends using only licensed taxis or reputable limousine services in Macau.Read on Government advice
Questions
What is the unlicensed taxi services scam in Macau?
Unlicensed drivers offer taxi services. Ride-sharing services such as Uber, Lyft and Grab are not available in Macau, and such services are illegal there.
How can I spot it early?
Someone offers you an unlicensed taxi ride. A ride is presented as a local Uber, Lyft or Grab service.
How do I avoid unlicensed taxi services in Macau?
Use a proper taxi or public transport. Use established taxi ranks when possible.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Report an unlicensed taxi to the Transport Bureau on +853-8866-6363.
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: taxi meter refusal and refusal of carriage.
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