Common scams in Bali

Current Scams in Bali: How to Protect Yourself

Bali is a beautiful island, known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. However, like many popular tourist destinations, it’s not immune to scams. While most of the locals are friendly and eager to help, there are a few unscrupulous individuals who prey on unsuspecting tourists. Here are some of the current scams happening in Bali, along with tips on how to protect yourself during your visit.

1. Currency Scams: The “I’m Visiting Your Country” Trick

One common scam in Bali involves someone approaching you on the street and showing interest in your currency. They might ask you to look at your money because they’re planning to visit your country. As you engage with them, they suddenly grab your wallet and make a quick getaway on a waiting scooter. It’s a fast-moving scam that leaves tourists stunned and without their money.

How to Protect Yourself: Always be cautious when someone approaches you on the street, especially if they seem overly eager to look at your money. Keep your wallet secure and in a place where it’s difficult for someone to snatch it quickly. If someone’s interest in your currency seems suspicious, politely decline and walk away.

2. Money Exchangers Who Make Your Money Disappear

Bali has plenty of money changers, but not all of them are trustworthy. Some money exchangers are skilled at sleight of hand and may swap your larger bills for smaller ones or shortchange you while they "count" your money. It can happen so quickly that you don't even notice until it's too late.

How to Protect Yourself: Always count your money carefully before leaving a money exchange booth. If you're unsure about a place, stick to well-known or recommended money exchangers that offer clear rates and receipts. Don't let them count the money for you; keep your eyes on the transaction the entire time.

3. Time Share Scouts: A Hard Sell and a Waste of Your Holiday Time

Another common occurrence in Bali involves time share scouts who approach tourists with promises of free holidays or gifts in exchange for attending a brief seminar. The person may even tell you that if you don’t go with them, they will have no money to feed their family. It’s a manipulative tactic.

While not technically a scam, it’s often a hard-sell situation that can waste hours of your holiday time. These presentations are designed to pressure you into purchasing a time share or timeshare-related product.

How to Protect Yourself: If you hear "free holiday" or "gift," it should raise a red flag. While it may sound tempting, it's best to avoid these offers. Most people find themselves spending a frustrating half-day being pressured into purchasing something they don't need or want. Be firm in saying no and walk away if approached. Remember, it’s okay to say no.

4. Unofficial ride share scooters and Taxis with "Broken" Meters

Unofficial ride share scooters and taxis with "broken" meters are another common issue in Bali.

Many tourists are approached by riders/drivers who are very keen at getting you on the scooter or in the car without negotiating a fare.
I have had several incidents of a rider wanting 10x price (fare should have been 25,000 rp, he wanted 250,000 rp) and they can be very insistent, bordering on aggressive.

Taxi's use a similar tactic, once you’re in the car always insist on the meter being turned on, the driver might claim that the meter is broken and attempt to overcharge you at the end of the trip. I recommend you tell the driver to stop and let you out if the meter is broken, often the meter magically starts working again!

This can be a stressful situation, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

How to Protect Yourself: Only use official taxis with a working meter or ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek. Make sure the meter is on at the beginning of the ride and keep track of the fare. If you're offered a flat rate, negotiate the price before getting in.

5. Jewellery, Phones, and Bags Grabbed from Scooters

In Bali, like in many high-tourist areas around the world, theft can occur on the streets.

One common event involves thieves grabbing jewellery, phones, or bags from unsuspecting tourists as they are out walking. These thieves typically ride past on another scooter and snatch your items in a flash and speed off with no chance of you recovering your property.
This can also happen when you are on the back of a scooter, holding your phone in sight of other riders, or in a non-secure phone holder on the scooter.

How to Protect Yourself: To avoid this, don’t wear expensive jewellery or carry valuable items in plain sight. Opt for a bag that crosses your body and is secure, and keep your phone hidden while on a scooter. Ensure the phone holder on your scooter is secure, the harder it is to get your phone into the holder, the harder it is for a thief to grab it.
Be especially cautious if you’re walking in quieter streets or at night.

In Conclusion: Stay Safe and Smart

Bali is an amazing destination with much to offer, but like any popular tourist spot, it’s important to stay vigilant and aware of potential scams. By staying informed about the types of scams happening, taking precautions, and trusting your instincts, you can have a safer and more enjoyable experience. The majority of the Balinese people are kind and welcoming, so don’t let the actions of a few spoil your trip. Stay smart, and enjoy all the beautiful experiences Bali has to offer!