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Indonesia · Moderate Risk

Indonesia Tourist Scams to Avoid

Indonesia: Moderate Risk — watch out for scooter rental damage scam (bali).

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Indonesia at a glance

Moderate Risk: Scooter rental damage scam (Bali). Bali's most reported scam: rental scooters are claimed to have pre-existing damage at return, with the shop demanding a large cash payment on the spot. Photograph and video the scooter from every angle before you ride off, and rent from a reputable shop with reviews.

Frequently asked questions

What's the most common tourist scam in Indonesia?

Indonesia: Moderate Risk — watch out for scooter rental damage scam (bali). Bali's most reported scam: rental scooters are claimed to have pre-existing damage at return, with the shop demanding a large cash payment on the spot. Photograph and video the scooter from every angle before you ride off, and rent from a reputable shop with reviews.

What does "Moderate Risk" mean?

A real, somewhat common scam pattern exists here — check the note above so you can recognize it before it happens to you.

How do I avoid getting scammed in Indonesia?

Agree on prices before getting into a taxi, be skeptical of unusually friendly strangers steering you somewhere specific, and never sign anything or accept food/drinks from someone you just met. The single biggest risk for this destination is noted above — general street-smarts cover the rest.

Does this mean Indonesia isn't safe to visit?

Not at all — millions of tourists visit safely every year. Knowing the one scam pattern that catches people most often is simply the best, cheapest defense there is, since it's designed specifically to look harmless until it's too late.

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