I handed a 100 lira note for a 45 lira fare. The driver showed me a 10 lira note and claimed I'd underpaid. The old switcheroo. When we didn't back down he "found" the right note. Pay with small notes and say the amount out loud.
🗓️ Scam date: 21 October 2025
📝 Reported: 15 September 2026
Official-looking taxi at IST arrivals quoted €50 flat for the ride to Sultanahmet, claiming the meter was "broken". The real metered fare is around €12–15. He locked the doors until we agreed. Book the Havaist shuttle or insist on the meter.
🗓️ Scam date: 30 August 2025
📝 Reported: 10 August 2026
Two men in plain clothes flashed badges at Taksim Square and said they were checking for "counterfeit money". One "checked" my wallet and 2,000 lira vanished. Real police will never go through your wallet on the street.
🗓️ Scam date: 17 March 2026
📝 Reported: 6 July 2026
A man in a suit at the Blue Mosque entrance introduced himself as an "official guide" and gave us a 20-minute walk for €60. Mosque entry is free and guides are not required. He got aggressive when we questioned the price.