Thailand scams in 2025 are a real concern for many travelers. While the country offers unforgettable experiences, being informed can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Scam: “Closed” Temples and Tuk-Tuk Detours
In popular cities like Bangkok, you might be approached near a temple by a friendly tuk-tuk driver who claims the site is temporarily closed for a ceremony. They’ll offer to take you on a special sightseeing tour — which conveniently includes stops at shops that pay them commissions, such as overpriced gem outlets or custom tailors.
How to avoid it:
- Ignore claims of closures and check entry directly at the temple gate.
- Politely turn down unsolicited “tour deals” from drivers or strangers.
Scam: “Special Price” Gem Shops and Tailors
During your tuk-tuk ride or casual walk, someone might recommend a so-called “official” jewelry shop or tailor with discounts that sound too good to be true. These stores often inflate prices for tourists or sell low-quality products masked as luxury goods. Don’t be fooled by terms like “government certified” — it’s usually just a sales tactic.
How to protect yourself:
- Walk away from any shop where you’re pressured to buy.
- Avoid businesses recommended by drivers or random strangers.
- Shop only at places with consistently good reviews online.
Fake Police and Random Checks
Men in uniform stop you in the street or in a taxi asking to see your passport, then demand a cash “fine.”
What to do:
- Ask for their ID badge and refuse to pay on the spot.
- Call the tourist police: 📞 1155
“Damaged” Scooters at Return
You rent a scooter, but upon return, the owner claims you scratched it and demands a high repair fee.
Tips:
- Film the scooter from all angles before departure.
- Use well-rated rental agencies on Google.
Fake Petitions or Street Currency Exchange
Someone asks you to sign a petition (usually “for the deaf/mute”) and distracts you to steal from you. Or they ask to exchange currency for a made-up reason.
How to respond:
- Ignore these approaches, even if they seem friendly.
- Stay alert in crowded tourist areas.
Thailand Scams at Currency Exchange Booths
Some booths hand out fake bills or shortchange you on purpose. Others use trick math.
How to prevent it:
- Use reputable counters like SuperRich, SCB, or Kasikorn.
- Check rates with apps like XE.
- Count your money in front of the teller.
Jet Ski Damage Scams
Your rented jet ski looks fine, but when you return it, you’re accused of causing scratches and asked to pay for repairs.
Tips:
- Avoid if you’re not comfortable with the activity.
- Film the jet ski before use.
- Never leave your passport as a deposit.
Imposters at Train Stations and Airports
Upon arrival, “agents” direct you to overpriced taxi or travel services.
What to do:
- Ignore touts.
- Go directly to official counters or use apps like Grab or Bolt.
Scams in Bars and Nightclubs
Overpriced drinks, surprise charges, or hostesses pushing you to consume at high prices—some of these situations verge on extortion. This can especially happen during the rainy season in Thailand, when tourists look for indoor entertainment.
Prevention:
- Choose well-rated venues on Google or TripAdvisor.
- Check the menu before ordering anything.
Bank Card Fraud and Skimming
Some ATMs copy your card info, or people spy on you while entering your PIN.
Tips:
- Use ATMs inside bank branches.
- Cover the keypad with your hand.
- Use virtual or prepaid cards if possible.
SIM Card and Delivery Scams
Overpriced or faulty SIM cards are sold in tourist areas. Fake delivery people might demand cash for parcels.
What to do:
- Buy SIM cards from official AIS, DTAC, or True shops.
- Be cautious with unknown delivery persons asking for money.
Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) Scam
As of May 1, 2025, all travelers must fill out a digital arrival card (TDAC). This form is free and only available on the official site: tdac.immigration.go.th.
⚠️ Beware: many fake sites offer the service—for a fee.
Tip:
- Make sure the URL starts with the official address.
- Never pay for the TDAC.
Read our full article about the Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC).
Fake Hotel or Accommodation Bookings
Scam websites or social media posts offer amazing deals—but upon arrival, the place doesn’t exist or is already occupied.
How to avoid this:
- Book through reliable platforms (Agoda, Booking, Airbnb… with good ratings).
- Avoid bank transfers to unknown accounts.
Drug Scams
Someone offers you drugs in the street. Once accepted, fake police show up and demand an instant fine under threat of arrest.
Important:
- Drug possession is illegal—even in small quantities.
- Always refuse such offers.
“Easy Job” or Dubious Investment Scams
Ads promote high-paying jobs near the border (Myanmar, Laos). In reality, they often lead to criminal networks exploiting foreigners.
Tips:
- Never give your documents to unknown recruiters.
- Research thoroughly before considering a job abroad.
Real Experiences: How Travelers Got Scammed in Thailand
Even with the best intentions, scams can happen. Here are a few short stories shared by travelers, so you know what to expect — and how to avoid the same traps.
- Emily from the UK: “A tuk-tuk driver told me the Grand Palace was closed, then took me shopping for gems. I realized it was a scam only when I saw the palace open… I left without buying anything, luckily.”
- Marc from Canada: “A ‘policeman’ asked for my passport in a taxi and said I owed a fine. I refused and called the tourist police – he disappeared fast.”
Real Estate Scams in Thailand
Thailand attracts many foreign investors, but the real estate sector has its traps: fake deeds, phantom projects, and multiple sales of the same property.
Tips to avoid these traps:
- Never sign or transfer money without independent legal advice.
- Check the land or condo on Thailand’s official cadastre database.
- Be wary of “exclusive offers for foreigners” with no legal backing.
- Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand in their own name.
Foreigners cannot legally own land in Thailand directly. Always consult a local lawyer, avoid “nominee” structures, and verify land titles via the Land Department.
Online Scams and Digital Traps
In 2025, scammers are increasingly using digital tactics. Be cautious with:
- Fake visa or TDAC websites asking for payment
- Phishing emails pretending to be from hotels or airlines
- Scam investment platforms promoted on social media or messaging apps
- QR code frauds in restaurants or taxis
Always double-check URLs, use official apps, and never send money without verification.
“Ping Pong Show” Tourist Traps
Popular in places like Patpong (Bangkok), Patong (Phuket), or Walking Street (Pattaya), these shows often lure tourists with cheap or free entry, then hit them with huge bills for drinks or “services.”
How to avoid this:
- Avoid street touts promising “special shows.”
- Check the price list clearly before staying.
- Leave immediately if you’re not allowed to see the menu upfront.
Never Leave Your Passport as Collateral
Some rental shops (scooters, apartments, etc.) ask to keep your passport. That’s risky—especially since for many nationalities, including French, your passport legally belongs to the government and should not be handed over.
What to do instead:
- Leave a photocopy or a reasonable cash deposit.
- Choose a shop that accepts a photo of your passport or a card imprint.
What to Do If You Get Scammed in Thailand
Even if you’re careful, scams can happen. If you’re a victim, take these steps:
- 📞 Call the tourist police: 1155 (free, 24/7, English-speaking)
- 📍 Visit the nearest police station to file an official complaint
- 📸 Keep all evidence: photos, videos, written messages, receipts
- 📩 Contact your embassy for serious disputes or lost documents
- 💬 Share the experience in forums or travel groups to warn others
Useful Resources for Travelers in Thailand
- 👮♂️ Tourist Police: touristpolice.go.th – 📞 1155
- 🇫🇷 French Embassy in Thailand: th.ambafrance.org – 📞 +66 (0)2 657 5100
- 📱 Grab / Bolt – Safe ride-hailing apps
- 💱 XE Currency – Real-time exchange rate app
- 🌍 Google Translate – Instant and offline translation
- 🚨 I Lert U – Official safety app by Thai police
FAQ: Thailand Scams
Is the Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) free?
Yes, it’s 100% free and only available via the official website.
Is it safe to give your passport as a deposit?
No. Never give your original passport. Use a copy or card imprint instead.
What should I do if I get scammed in Thailand?
Call the tourist police at 1155, gather evidence, and report the scam at the nearest police station. Contact your embassy if needed.
Quick Overview of Common Thailand Scams
| Type | Where | What to Watch For | How to React |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuk-tuk & temples | Bangkok, Chiang Mai | Fake closure, shop detour | Check yourself, walk away |
| Fake police | Anywhere | Passport check, cash fine | Ask ID, call 1155 |
| Jet ski or scooter | Phuket, Pattaya, islands | False damage claims | Film before, no passport |
| Currency exchange | Markets, tourist zones | Fake bills, shortchange | Use SuperRich, count cash |
| Ping pong shows | Patpong, Patong, Pattaya | Free entry, huge bill | Check menu, leave early |
Conclusion
Thailand is a welcoming and safe country, but staying informed helps you avoid bad surprises. Stay alert, use common sense—and enjoy your trip to the fullest!
By keeping yourself aware of common Thailand scams, you can avoid most pitfalls, including those targeting long-term travelers or investors. This guide will be regularly updated to reflect new fraud trends.
