Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta, Indonesia, Jakarta, Local Insights & Practical Info, Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Jakarta, Indonesia

Fake Tour Guide Scam

1. Fake Tour Guide Scam

In Jakarta, some individuals pose as tour guides and charge high fees without offering genuine services. To avoid this, book tours through reputable agencies or your hotel. Proper guide identification and advanced booking can save you from this scam.
  • Agency Verification: Ensure the tour company is registered and has good reviews.
  • Hotel Recommendations: Get a trusted tour guide recommendation directly from your hotel.
  • Identity Check: Check the tour guide’s ID and certification before departure.
  • Pre-agreement: Agree on the tour scope and costs upfront.
  • Online Reviews: Cross-reference online reviews to validate the guide's reputation.
Currency Exchange Scam

2. Currency Exchange Scam

Some money changers in Jakarta offer unfair rates or even fake notes. Always use authorized currency exchange services or ATMs inside banks. Be aware of the current exchange rate to avoid being overcharged.
  • Official Exchange Bureaus: Use exchange bureaus that are recognized and verified.
  • Currency Calculator: Utilize a mobile app to verify exchange rates instantly.
  • Receipt Collection: Always request a receipt for the transaction.
  • Atmosphere Evaluation: Conduct exchanges in well-lit, populated places.
  • Immediate Checking: Count and inspect money before leaving the counter.
Taxi Meter Rigging

3. Taxi Meter Rigging

In Jakarta, some taxi drivers may tamper with meters to overcharge tourists. Opt for reputable taxi services like Blue Bird, and confirm the meter is reset at the start. Utilizing ride-hailing apps provides transparent pricing.
  • Driver Licensing: Confirm the driver has official identification displayed.
  • Initial Meter Check: Verify that the taxi meter starts from zero.
  • Taxi Brand: Use well-known brands like Blue Bird for safety.
  • Route Familiarity: Use a GPS app to track and verify the route.
  • Cash Handling: Prepare small denominations for paying correct fares.
Free Friendship Bracelet Scam

4. Free Friendship Bracelet Scam

Vendors may offer unsolicited bracelets, then demand payment once it's tied. Politely decline free trinkets and do not engage. Firmly saying "no" and walking away is usually effective.
  • Polite Refusal: Politely decline unsolicited offers from strangers.
  • Vigilant Attitude: Stay alert when vendors approach.
  • Group Travel: Stay close to companions in tourist spots.
  • Avoidance: Walk confidently past vendors without making eye contact.
  • Awareness Education: Learn about common scams before visiting.
Fake Shopping Calls

5. Fake Shopping Calls

Scammers may call hotels claiming to be from local shops with “special discounts.” Avoid giving personal information or purchasing through such calls. Confirm with your accommodation staff if in doubt.
  • Personal Information Guarding: Never share your details over unsolicited calls.
  • Shop Verification: Cross-check shop offers directly with accommodations.
  • Direct Purchases: Make purchases directly from stores.
  • Call Authentication: Use caller ID apps to verify numbers.
  • Reporting: Report suspicious calls to hotel management.
Public Wi-Fi Scam

6. Public Wi-Fi Scam

In Jakarta, unprotected public Wi-Fi networks are used to steal personal info. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt data or avoid accessing sensitive information. Seek secure, password-protected networks.
  • VPN Usage: Invest in a reliable VPN for secure browsing.
  • Network Verification: Confirm the legitimacy of Wi-Fi networks with staff.
  • Privacy Awareness: Avoid entering personal data on public networks.
  • App Security: Ensure apps are updated and have security measures.
  • Password Protection: Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
Counterfeit Tickets Scam

7. Counterfeit Tickets Scam

Counterfeit tickets are sometimes sold outside tourist spots. Always buy tickets from official counters or the attraction's website. Double-check ticket authenticity before entering.
  • Official Purchases: Acquire tickets directly from official sources.
  • Authenticity Markers: Learn signs of authentic tickets.
  • Online Reservations: Book tickets online to bypass in-person scams.
  • Verification: Cross-check ticket details upon purchase.
  • Receipt Retention: Keep all transaction receipts for records.
Hotel Booking Scam

8. Hotel Booking Scam

Fraudulent sites pose as real hotels, accepting bookings but offering nothing in return. Use trusted travel booking platforms or contact the hotel directly. Check reviews and verify contact information before booking.
  • Booking Platform Credibility: Use renowned booking sites.
  • Direct Confirmation: Call the hotel directly to confirm your booking.
  • Review Checking: Read recent guest reviews and experiences.
  • Third-party Rejection: Avoid unsolicited booking agents or sites.
  • Email Confirmation: Request official email confirmations of bookings.
Credit Card Skimming

9. Credit Card Skimming

ATMs and shops might have hidden skimming devices that capture card info. Use ATMs inside banks and inspect card readers before using. Monitor your account regularly for unauthorized transactions.
  • Bank-aided Withdrawals: Withdraw from ATMs located inside banks.
  • Card Reader Inspection: Examine ATMs for loose or suspicious parts.
  • Notification Setup: Enable alerts for transactions on your card.
  • Card Safety: Use cash in smaller shops to prevent skimming.
  • Account Monitoring: Check statements frequently for discrepancies.
Sob Story Begging Scam

10. Sob Story Begging Scam

Individuals may tell heartbreaking stories to gain sympathy and money. Opt to donate to accredited charities instead. Being aware of this tactic can help you proceed wisely.
  • Charitable Education: Research local charities to contribute to.
  • Donation Directives: Give through official charity channels.
  • Emotional Guarding: Be cautious of overly emotional stories.
  • Story Verification: Trust then verify any shared personal tales.
  • Compassionate Awareness: Maintain awareness of genuine local issues.
Overly Helpful Locals

11. Overly Helpful Locals

In Jakarta, locals offering unsolicited help might demand a fee afterward. Politely decline their assistance and move on. Trust your gut and use official services when needed.
  • Service Verification: Recognize who is genuinely affiliated with places.
  • Gut Instinct: Trust your intuition when feeling uncomfortable.
  • Professional Services: Utilize official help desks for assistance.
  • Clear Refusal: Practice clear, polite refusals to avoid entanglement.
  • Situational Assessment: Assess surroundings before accepting help.
Fake Police Officers

12. Fake Police Officers

Scammers might pose as police to extort fines for fabricated infractions. Always ask for official ID, and avoid handing over your passport. Report suspicious activity to local authorities immediately.
  • ID Request: Demand to see police identification.
  • Personal Document Safekeeping: Keep your passport secure.
  • Official Confirmation: Request accompanying to a police station if unsure.
  • Local Law Familiarization: Familiarize yourself with local laws.
  • Authority Knowledge: Understand how genuine officers will act.
Fake Charity Collectors

13. Fake Charity Collectors

Scammers often pose as charity workers collecting donations. Request official identification and research the organization beforehand. Choose to donate through established organizations instead.
  • Charity Verification: Confirm the charity’s legitimacy before donating.
  • ID Request: Demand official charity identification badges.
  • Research Prior Donation: Investigate the charity before donating.
  • Receipting: Ask for a receipt for any donation made.
  • Public Campaigns: Recognize official campaigns through advertisements.
Card Game Scam

14. Card Game Scam

Card players in tourist areas might lure you in and cheat you out of money. Politely refuse invitations to join street card games. Familiarize yourself with local scams ahead of your trip.
  • Game Avoidance: Avoid participating in street gambling games.
  • Awareness Education: Learn about these scams before visiting.
  • Local Law Knowledge: Understand legal stances on gambling.
  • Observation: Watch from a distance rather than participate.
  • No Money Display: Keep cash and valuables out of sight.
Artistry Scams

15. Artistry Scams

Scammers sell cheap art or paintings as rare/local pieces at high prices. Buy art from recognized galleries or reputable stores. Verify art authenticity through trusted sources.
  • Gallery Reputation: Purchase from known art galleries.
  • Local Price Research: Research prevailing art prices beforehand.
  • Artwork Authentication: Learn to identify signs of fakes.
  • In-store Purchases: Buy art directly from reputable stores.
  • Provenance Inquiry: Request documentation of art provenance.
Tourist Price Gouging

16. Tourist Price Gouging

Tourists can face higher charges in markets compared to locals. Practice bargaining and shop around before making decisions. Observing local prices helps gauge fair costs.
  • Market Comparison: Visit multiple vendors for price fairness.
  • Negotiation Technique: Hone bargaining skills to establish fair pricing.
  • Local Price Familiarity: Understand average prices of goods.
  • Shopping with Locals: Engage with locals for shopping advice.
  • Pattern Recognition: Identify and avoid tourist trap areas.
Fake Spiritual Healers

17. Fake Spiritual Healers

Street-side “healers” claim to cure ailments for a fee. Always consult professional and certified healthcare practitioners. Validate any cultural practices through trusted sources before engagement.
  • Certified Services: Seek only certified medical and wellness services.
  • Traditional Knowledge: Respect genuine traditions with awareness.
  • Health Research: Verify practices before trying alternative therapies.
  • Referral System: Use referrals for finding reputable practitioners.
  • Consultation Thoroughness: Ensure comprehensive consultation services.
Broken Taxi Change Scam

18. Broken Taxi Change Scam

Drivers might claim they lack small change, keeping extra money. Carry small denominations and confirm fare before starting the ride. Having exact change ready mitigates this issue.
  • Exact Cash Handling: Prepare small bills for taxi fares.
  • Fare Confirmation: Confirm and agree on the fare beforehand.
  • Reputable Brands: Use trusted taxi services to avoid such scams.
  • Driver Communication: Clearly communicate fare expectations.
  • Taxi App Usage: Utilize taxi app services for monitored transactions.
Overcharging Restaurants

19. Overcharging Restaurants

Tourists might be overcharged at restaurants, especially in tourist-heavy spots. Review menus for listed prices and verify your bill. Choose popular dining spots with transparent pricing.
  • Menu Validation: Ensure the menu prices match what is charged.
  • Reputation Checking: Opt for well-reviewed dining locations.
  • Bill Scrutiny: Review bills carefully for accuracy.
  • Local Dining Trends: Understand dining habits and average costs.
  • Receipt Collection: Keep dining receipts for post-check references.
Phony Souvenir Sellers

20. Phony Souvenir Sellers

Vendors may sell “authentic” souvenirs at inflated prices. Purchase from official shops for genuine items, and haggle when necessary. Knowing cultural products helps distinguish real from fake.
  • Store Authenticity: Visit renowned souvenir stores.
  • Cultural Product Recognition: Learn about traditional items beforehand.
  • Price Haggling: Apply bargaining skills for fair pricing.
  • Product Knowledge: Educate yourself on types of local souvenirs.
  • Purchase Comparison: Compare market prices for consistency.