What are the most common scams and how do you avoid them?

Taxi scams still remain a concern for travelers to unfamiliar places, although they are not as common as they once were. To avoid potential issues, it is best to use only licensed and metered taxis. Taking a ride from a receptionist's acquaintance or someone who works at a local nightclub is not advisable and can lead to unfortunate consequences.

Unfortunately, tourists to Greece are still vulnerable to exploitation by some unethical taxi drivers. Cases have become such a problem that the leading airport taxi company for Athens, Athens Airport Taxis, has warned customers on its website that, “If you are a tourist, expect that most taxi drivers will try to charge you more than the normal fare”. It is wise for tourists to be aware of the potential for exploitation so that they can make informed decisions and protect themselves.

One of the most common taxi scams out there is a driver not starting the meter when they pick up a passenger. This is done in order to charge a much higher rate than the standard fare. They may also set the wrong tariff, often charging a much higher rate than what is allowed by law. Another scam is when a driver takes a much longer and more circuitous route than necessary in order to rack up more fare. This is usually done when roads are congested or blocked off, making it impossible to take the shortest, quickest route. Lastly, some drivers may also try to deceive passengers when they're paying, often demanding an upfront payment that is far higher than the actual fare.

Here are a few tips to help you avoid getting ripped off

• Ensure that you are clear on your destination before you get in the taxi. Provide the driver with an exact address, or if you're going to a specific place, make sure you know the name and its location. If you appear unsure of your destination, the driver may take advantage of the situation.
• If you're unsure of the route, take out your phone and use a GPS navigation app to check the driver's route. Don't be afraid to point out to the driver if their route seems off. Most scammers will be deterred if they realize that you are aware of their fraudulent activities.
• Before you book a taxi, it's a good idea to take a look at what the expected cost of the journey is likely to be. Many taxi companies have their fares prices listed on their websites, so have a look there first. If you can't find this information, you can always do a quick online search to see what the usual cost of the journey would be. This will help you to budget and make sure you don't overspend.
• It is important to ensure that the meter is running when you are travelling in a taxi in Greece. All legitimate taxis will have a meter that is clearly visible to you. Make sure that the driver turns the meter on when you enter the taxi. Additionally, you can check to make sure the meter is not already running. If you have any doubts about the meter, it is best to bring it to the driver's attention.
• Never pay in advance for a taxi ride. It is illegal for drivers of metered, licensed taxis in Greece to ask for an upfront payment. If a taxi driver insists that you pay in advance for the journey, it is best to walk away and find another taxi. Be wary if they say they can offer you a better deal if you pay in advance - it is likely to be false.