Taxis, ATMs, currency exchange, phone extortion and fake rentals: the most common scams in Mexico, how to avoid them and what to do if it happens.
Mexico is a welcoming country and the vast majority of your interactions with locals will be friendly. Still, like any popular destination, some scams come up again and again. Knowing them in advance is the best protection. This guide summarizes what we teach in the scams module of our Adaptation workshop for foreigners.
Taxis without a meter and inflated fares
The classic: you hail a taxi on the street, there's no meter (or it's "broken"), and at the end you're charged three times the normal fare.
- Use ride-hailing apps or taxis de sitio (established stands with a phone number and identified cars).
- At airports, buy a ticket at the authorized taxi booths inside the terminal.
- If you do take a street taxi, agree on the fare before getting in.
Card skimming at ATMs
Card skimming happens mostly at isolated ATMs or in poorly monitored spots.
- Use ATMs inside bank branches or shopping malls, during the day.
- Cover the keypad when typing your PIN and check that the card slot has no loose parts.
- Don't let your card out of sight at restaurants — ask them to bring the terminal to your table.
Dynamic currency conversion
When paying with a foreign card, the terminal or ATM may offer to "charge you in your home currency". It sounds convenient, but the exchange rate is usually much worse. Always choose to pay in Mexican pesos (MXN) and let your bank do the conversion.
Currency exchange tricks
Exchange money at banks or established casas de cambio, count your bills in front of the teller before walking away, and get familiar with Mexican banknotes. Be wary of anyone offering a "special" rate on the street.
Phone extortion and "virtual kidnapping"
One of the most distressing scams. Someone calls claiming a relative has been arrested or kidnapped — or that you're a suspect in a crime — and demands an immediate payment. Sometimes they tell you to lock yourself in your hotel room and not to answer anyone else.
- Hang up. Urgency is the scammer's main tool.
- Contact the supposedly affected person directly.
- Don't post where you're staying or your real-time plans on social media.
- In Mexico City you can report it to the Consejo Ciudadano: +52 55 5533 5533.
Fake rentals
Listings with stunning photos at low prices, and an "owner" who is abroad and asks for a deposit to hold the place. Never transfer money for a home you haven't seen in person or through a platform with payment protection, and ask to see ID and proof of ownership.
Predatory loan apps
Apps that lend small amounts with no requirements, then charge abusive interest, access your contacts and harass you. If you need credit, use institutions registered with CONDUSEF, Mexico's financial consumer protection agency.
Timeshare pitches and "free gifts"
In beach destinations it's common to be offered free tours, dinners or discounts in exchange for attending a "short presentation" that turns into hours of pressure to buy a timeshare. If you're not interested, say no from the start.
Police and traffic fines
If a traffic officer stops you, ask for their name and badge number and request a written ticket. Fines are paid through official channels, not in cash on the street.
This topic and many more — paperwork, transport, customs and safety — are covered in depth in our Expat orientation workshop.
What to do if you're a victim
- Get to a safe place and call 911 in an emergency.
- For card fraud, call your bank immediately to block the card.
- File a report with the Public Prosecutor's office (Ministerio Público); for anonymous reports, dial 089.
- As a foreigner, notify your embassy or consulate.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to use ATMs in Mexico?
Yes, if you use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls, during the day, and check them for unusual devices. Avoid isolated street ATMs at night.
What should I do if I get an extortion call?
Hang up without sharing any information, contact your relative directly and report it. In Mexico City, the Consejo Ciudadano helpline is +52 55 5533 5533.
Should I pay in US dollars in Mexico?
No. Some tourist businesses accept dollars, but the exchange rate is usually unfavorable. Pay in Mexican pesos, in cash or by card.
Updated .
Local hosts, traditional cooks, historians and guides who design immersive cultural experiences in Mexico City.
