Common Tourist Scams in Indonesia and How to Avoid Them

Indonesia is an incredible country that features over 17,000 islands, each bringing its own special beauty and charm. From the lively streets of Jakarta to the peaceful beaches of Bali, every destination offers a unique experience.

However, like many popular tourist destinations, Indonesia faces its own set of challenges, particularly with scams that can catch unsuspecting travellers off guard. These scams range from expensive taxi fares to pickpocketing—all of which are aimed at taking advantage of those who are unfamiliar or unprepared. Knowing what to watch out for is essential to ensuring your Indonesian adventure remains blissful. Read on to learn of some of the most common tourist scams in Indonesia.

Most Common Tourist Scams in Indonesia

Here's an in-depth look at some of the most common tourist scams in Indonesia that you should be aware of during your visit.

1. Taxi Scams: Your ride may begin with a friendly driver, but the experience can quickly take a turn for the worse. Some drivers in Indonesia may refuse to use the meter and instead demand a much higher flat rate. Others may take unnecessary detours to increase the fare. This is especially common in tourist-heavy cities like Bali and Jakarta.

2. Fake Bluebird Taxi Scams: Bluebird taxis are known for their reliability, but they are often imitated by scammers seeking to exploit their reputation. These fake taxis mimic the Bluebird colour and logo but charge inflated rates or take longer routes. This scam is more common in cities like Jakarta and Bali, where reliable taxi services are in high demand.

3. Money Exchange Scams: Some money changers may offer seemingly favourable exchange rates in busy tourist areas like Kuta and Legian. However, they may return counterfeit bills or use sleight-of-hand tricks to give you less money than you're owed.

4. Beach Hustlers and Tout Scams: On the beaches of Bali and Lombok, you may encounter numerous vendors offering souvenirs, massages, and local crafts at inflated prices. These vendors typically target tourists and often use high-pressure tactics to sell items at rates much higher than usual.

5. Temple Entrance Fee Scams: Be wary of individuals who pose as temple authorities and demand fees for entry or special access to spiritual sites. This scam often targets foreigners unaware that these cultural sites are free or have minimal entry fees.

6. Motorbike Rental Scams: Some rental agencies may demand your passport as a deposit and later claim false damages or theft. They will then insist on hefty fines before returning your document.

7. Pickpocketing: Crowded markets and tourist attractions are hotspots for pickpockets. Thieves often work in teams—while one distracts you, another swiftly steals your valuables. Always secure your possessions and be aware of your surroundings.

8. Hotel Credit Card Scams: There have been reports of fraudulent calls to hotel rooms late at night, with callers pretending to be front desk staff needing to verify payment details due to a system error. Never provide credit card information over the phone, and handle financial transactions in person at the hotel reception.

9. Shopping Scams: Tourists may encounter sellers offering counterfeit or overpriced goods in popular shopping destinations like Jakarta and Bandung. The items often appear similar to genuine products, making it easy to fall prey to these scams.

10. Arak Consumption Scams: Arak, a traditional Indonesian spirit, can sometimes be adulterated with harmful substances. Tourists have been hospitalised after consuming counterfeit Arak containing methanol. To stay safe, it is best to purchase alcohol from licensed stores and check seals and labels.

11. Fake Police Officer Scams: Scammers dressed as police officers are known to target tourists, especially in areas like Bali and Yogyakarta. They may accuse you of a non-existent violation and demand an on-the-spot fine. Always ask for identification and suggest handling the matter at the nearest police station.

Tips to Deal with Scams in Indonesia

Staying vigilant about tourist scams in Indonesia is necessary to ensure your trip remains enjoyable. Here are some strategies to safeguard your holiday experience:

• Be Cautious with Currency: Avoid using street-side money exchange vendors that offer exchange rates significantly higher than the current international rate. These offers might come with hidden fees or the risk of counterfeit currency. Use ATMs or banks for currency exchanges, offering better rates and additional security.

• Verify Taxis and Services: Go for trusted and verified taxi services. Apps like Grab and Gojek provide reliable, metered taxi services in Indonesia. They reduce the risk of being overcharged. Always check for official company logos on the taxi and ask the driver for identification before starting your journey.

• Stay Vigilant at Attractions: Familiarise yourself with the standard entry fees and operating hours of popular tourist sites to avoid being misled by false claims of 'closed for the day' or 'special access fees.' Pay entrance fees only at official ticket counters.

• Secure Your Belongings: Tourist areas are often targeted by pickpockets. Use safety wallets, wear money belts, or carry anti-theft bags to secure valuables. Keep minimal cash and store any additional money and important documents in the safe at your accommodation.

• Trust Your Instincts: If something or someone seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always listen to your gut feeling and err on the side of caution. Avoid deals or offers that are pushed on you, especially those that require upfront payments or personal information.

• Avoid Street-Side Scams: Be wary of street-side offers for tours, goods, or services that seem hastily arranged or overly insistent. Politely decline and walk away if you feel pressured into making a purchase or donation.

• Protect Your Online Data: Never share your credit card details or personal information over the phone or online with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly. If you need to make an online transaction, make sure it is through a secure and reputable service.

Emergency Resources for Travel Scams in Indonesia

If you find yourself dealing with common Bali scams, it is important to know the available resources to effectively address the situation. Some are as follows:

Emergency Contacts:

• Police/General Emergencies: Dial 110 or 112 for assistance with crimes or scams.
• Ambulance Services: For medical emergencies, dial 118 or 119.
• Firefighter Services: Dial 113 in case of a fire.

Specialised Assistance:

• Search and Rescue (BASARNAS): Dial 62 21 65867510 for help in remote or adventurous areas.
• Natural Disaster Assistance: For emergencies like earthquakes or tsunamis, dial 129.

Communication Services:

• International Phone Number Information: Dial 102.
• Local Phone Number Information: Contact 108 for directory assistance.

Consular Help:

• Indian Embassy in Indonesia: Dial +62 21 2522299 for assistance with lost passports, legal troubles, or other consular matters.

Conclusion

Being thoroughly prepared and informed is essential for a seamless and enjoyable journey in Indonesia. Securing international travel insurance is important to protect yourself against unexpected events. The right international travel insurance can provide crucial support in case of medical emergencies, trip cancellations, loss of luggage, or financial setbacks caused by scams. The right insurance like single-trip travel insurance also brings peace of mind, letting you enjoy Indonesia's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage without worrying about potential travel disruptions.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.