1. Taxi fare disputes
How it works: A "broken" meter, a surprise extra charge, or a fare that rises on arrival.
How to avoid it: Use a ride-hailing app, or the official prepaid taxi counter at the airport and major railway stations, and agree the fare before you start.
2. "Your hotel is full or closed"
How it works: Touts near stations claim your booking is cancelled and take you to a hotel that pays them a commission.
How to avoid it: Phone your hotel directly, check the booking confirmation, and do not follow strangers.
3. Unofficial guides and "tourist offices"
How it works: People near popular attractions or backpacker streets who present themselves as official.
How to avoid it: Buy tickets at the official counter, and agree the rate with any guide before the tour begins.
4. Rickshaw and market price traps
How it works: Quoted prices that are many times local fares, or "special prices" in shops that pay commissions.
How to avoid it: Ask for the price first, compare two or three sellers, and be ready to walk away.
5. UPI collect-request fraud
How it works: Someone asks you to approve a "collect request" to receive a refund or payment, and your money leaves your account instead.
How to avoid it: You never need to enter a PIN to receive money. Decline any request that asks for it.
6. Crowd pickpocketing
How it works: During festivals such as Durga Puja, crowded pavilions and trams attract pickpockets.
How to avoid it: Carry only what you need, keep phones in front pockets and use a zipped bag.
Kolkata scam FAQ
Is Kolkata safe for tourists?
Generally yes. Be aware of fare disputes and crowd theft, and use licensed transport after dark.
Can foreigners use UPI in Kolkata?
Some foreign visitors can, but cash, a prepaid card or a local SIM with an app-based wallet are more reliable for most travelers.
What happened in Kolkata this week?
Open WarnPack and read recent warnings from travelers, or post your own to help the next person.
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