Thailand is generally safe and welcoming, but a few well-known scams target tourists—especially in Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. Most are avoidable if you know the pattern. When in doubt, walk away, use official apps, and call the tourist police at 1155 (English available).

Tuk-tuk “special tour” scam

A friendly driver offers a very cheap or “free” city tour if you visit a tailor, gem shop, or duty-free store first. You may feel pressured to buy overpriced goods; the driver earns a commission. How to avoid: Agree a fixed fare before getting in, or use Grab/Bolt. Skip “today only” temple-closed stories—they are almost always false.

Gem and jewellery scam

You are told gems bought in Thailand can be resold at huge profit back home. The stones are often low quality or misrepresented. How to avoid: Buy jewellery only from reputable shops you chose yourself—not from a driver’s “friend’s store.” If the deal sounds too good, it is.

Jet ski and rental damage scam (beach areas)

Common in Phuket and Pattaya: after your ride, staff claim you caused damage that was already there and demand large compensation. How to avoid: Photograph the jet ski or scooter from every angle before use; use licensed operators; consider travel insurance. Refuse to pay on the spot—contact tourist police 1155 if pressured.

Fake TDAC (Digital Arrival Card) websites

Third-party sites charge fees to submit Thailand’s free arrival card or collect your passport details. The only official portal is tdac.immigration.go.th —submission is free. Bookmark the official URL; ignore paid ads in search results.

Temple bird-feeding scam

Near some temples, someone hands you bird feed or a bag of food “as a blessing,” then demands payment far above the item’s value. How to avoid: Politely decline unsolicited items. Buy your own offering inside the temple if you wish to participate in a ritual.

General safety tips

• Use metered taxis or ride apps; agree tuk-tuk prices before the trip.
• Keep passports in the hotel safe; carry a photocopy or digital copy instead.
• Be wary of strangers who say your hotel or attraction is “closed today.”
• Report scams to tourist police 1155—they can help mediate disputes.

Read more: Emergency calls · Traveling in Bangkok

FAQ

Are tuk-tuks always a scam?
No—they are a legitimate (and fun) way to travel short distances. Just agree the price first and ignore “special tour” offers.

What should I do if I am already in a scam situation?
Stay calm, do not sign documents under pressure, and call 1155 (tourist police) for assistance in English.

Is the TDAC arrival card mandatory?
Check current entry rules on the official immigration site. Never pay a third-party site for the free government form.