1. Rigged money changers
How it works: Rates that look far better than the bank, a "calculator" that never matches, or notes folded and counted so that a few disappear.
How to avoid it: Use changers that display an official authorisation sign, count the cash yourself before leaving the counter, and ask for a printed receipt. Bank ATMs inside branches are usually the safest option.
2. Scooter rental damage claims
How it works: You return the bike and are blamed for scratches that were already there, then asked for a large cash payment, sometimes while holding your passport.
How to avoid it: Film a slow walk-around with timestamps before you ride, photograph the plate and odometer, never hand over your passport as a deposit, and read what the insurance actually covers.
3. Roadside "fines"
How it works: Being waved over and told to pay a fine in cash on the spot, often to someone who will not issue a written ticket.
How to avoid it: Carry a valid licence with a motorcycle category (an international permit if required), stay calm, and ask for an official written ticket instead of paying cash at the roadside.
4. ATM skimming and card cloning
How it works: Devices fitted to standalone machines that copy card details.
How to avoid it: Use ATMs inside bank branches or hotel lobbies, cover the keypad, turn on instant transaction alerts and keep a backup card in a different place.
5. Bottled roadside fuel
How it works: Fuel sold from bottles at roadside stalls can be short-measured or of poor quality.
How to avoid it: Fill up at official fuel stations where the pump shows the volume.
6. Fake official portals
How it works: Look-alike websites that sell visa-on-arrival, e-visa or tourist-levy payments at inflated prices.
How to avoid it: Type the official government address yourself rather than clicking an ad, and check the payment page is on the official domain before you enter card details.
7. Monkey "rescues"
How it works: At monkey sanctuaries, animals grab sunglasses or phones and a helper offers to get them back for a fee.
How to avoid it: Keep valuables zipped away, never carry loose food, and follow the posted rules of the site.
Bali scam FAQ
Is Bali safe for tourists?
Most visitors have a trouble-free trip. The common problems are petty fraud and overcharging rather than violent crime, which is why knowing the usual patterns helps.
What is the safest way to get cash in Bali?
Withdraw from ATMs inside bank branches, always choose to be charged in the local currency, and avoid unmarked street changers.
What happened in Bali this week?
Open WarnPack and read recent warnings from travelers, or post your own to help the next person.
More scam guides
Bangkok
"The palace is closed" detours, tuk-tuk shop stops, taxi meters and bar bills.
Hanoi
Fake taxi meters, shoe-repair tricks, photo-pole vendors and copycat tour brands.
Kolkata
Taxi fare disputes, station touts, unofficial guides and UPI collect-request fraud.
Delhi
"Station exit is closed", fake tourist offices, auto-rickshaw detours and refilled bottles.