British tourists heading overseas this summer are being urged to take extra care when hailing taxis after experts warned that a number of common scams are continuing to catch out unsuspecting holidaymakers.
The warning follows reports of a traveller in Paris who was allegedly left facing a bill worth hundreds of pounds after a payment dispute with a taxi driver.
Common scams to watch out for
Insurance firm Zego said there are several tricks passengers should be aware of before getting into a cab, particularly in busy tourist destinations where visitors are less likely to know the local area or typical fares. One of the most common tactics is known as the long route scam. Rather than taking the quickest journey, some drivers deliberately choose slower roads or unnecessary detours to increase the distance travelled and, ultimately, the fare.
Another scheme involves drivers claiming the meter is broken before suggesting a fixed price instead. While this may seem convenient, experts warn the amount quoted is often far higher than the journey should actually cost.
Holidaymakers are also being reminded to stay alert for fake taxis, particularly outside airports, railway stations and major attractions. Fraudsters may claim to be a passenger's booked driver or simply offer an unofficial ride before charging inflated prices.
Cash and card risks
Cash payments can create further opportunities for dishonest drivers. Some may hand back the wrong change, insist they do not have smaller notes or add unexpected charges in the hope that visitors will not realise they have been overcharged.
Card users are not immune either. A recent incident in Paris saw a passenger reportedly charged hundreds of pounds after a driver claimed there was a technical issue with the payment machine and asked them to complete the transaction elsewhere.
A less familiar trick involves motorists accusing passengers of causing damage to the vehicle before demanding money on the spot. Experts say this often happens when travellers are distracted by luggage or trying to reach their accommodation.
How to stay safe
Sten Saar, chief executive and co-founder of Zego, said checking a vehicle before getting in could help avoid many of these situations. He said: "Legitimate taxis and private hire vehicles are required to display clear safety features. Travellers should always check for official licensing, confirm vehicle details match their booking when using a private-hire service, and ensure the fare process is transparent before starting their journey. If something feels wrong, passengers should trust their instincts and avoid getting into the vehicle. If requested, legitimate drivers should also be able to provide a receipt with the company and journey details."
Travellers are advised to use official taxi ranks, hotel bookings or recognised ride-hailing apps wherever possible rather than accepting offers from drivers approaching them in busy public places.
Following the journey on a map app, checking that the taxi displays the correct licence and paying by card can also provide added protection if something goes wrong.
What to do if scammed
Anyone who believes they have been scammed should keep receipts, payment records and any photographs of the vehicle if it is safe to do so before reporting the incident to local police, the taxi operator or the licensing authority. Those who paid by card are also advised to contact their bank as soon as possible.
