Scam · high risk · 2026
Taxi scam: Money Switch (Bill Swap)
Driver palms your 200 TL, displays a 20 TL, claims you underpaid.
How it works
200 TL and 20 TL share similar palette. Driver swaps your bill while you're not watching, then demands more.
Where it happens
Anywhere, especially when passenger is rushed at curbside.
Red flags
- Driver puts your bill below dashboard out of sight
- Hands move quickly during exchange
What to do — during
State denomination out loud — 'İki yüz lira veriyorum.' Photograph the bill on your phone before handing it over. Watch the driver's hands.
What to do — after
Photo serves as proof if police arrive. 155 / Tourism Police.
Emergency contacts
112 Emergency
Single Turkish emergency line. English available.
Tourism Police
+90 (212) 527-4503 · Sultanahmet
IBB Beyaz Masa
153 · IBB taxi complaint hotline
Full police contacts
FAQ
Source: mightytravels.com 2025; cabistanbul.com