Taxi Overcharginghigh
Non-metered taxis charge tourists far above market rates. Use Grab or insist on the Blue Bird taxi company (they use meters).
Fake Police Officershigh
Men posing as plain-clothes police officers demand to see your passport and then solicit bribes. Real police have clear identification.
Monkey Forest Theftmedium
Ubud's Sacred Monkey Forest has macaques that have learned to steal — glasses, phones, hats, bags, and food. Monkeys will grab items and 'ransom' them back to you through a handler for a fee. Keep all valuables zipped away, remove glasses before entering, and don't make eye contact with the monkeys.
Fake Petrol Stations (Yellow Bottles)low
Yellow Absolut vodka bottles filled with petrol line Bali's roads — technically not a scam, but the fuel is often diluted with water. When possible, use official Pertamina petrol stations (blue and red). The yellow bottle fuel can cause motorbike breakdowns, especially in older engines.
Currency Exchange Shortchanginghigh
Some independent money changers in Kuta, Seminyak, and Legian use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists — counting out money with a large note on top, then removing notes when folding. Always count your money before leaving the counter. Use official exchange booths (Central Kuta Money Changer, PT Dirgahayu) for fair rates.
Spiked Arak & Methanol Poisoninghigh
Bali has had multiple cases of methanol poisoning from cheap local spirits (arak). Symptoms include nausea, blurred vision, and in severe cases, blindness or death. Avoid cheap cocktails at unlicensed beach bars, especially 'arak attacks'. Stick to sealed bottles from reputable establishments.