Thailand Scams 2025: What Tourists Should Know Before Visiting Phuket

Thailand remains one of the world’s most popular destinations — and Phuket is at the heart of that. But with millions of tourists come those who try to take advantage. While Thailand is generally very safe, scams still happen. In this Thailand scams 2025 guide, we’ll share the most updated scams in Phuket and across Thailand that travelers should be aware of — based on current reports, expat forums, local media, and real traveler experiences.

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1️⃣ New & Trending Scams in 2025

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1. AI-Powered Online Booking Scams

In 2025, scammers are using AI-generated fake booking platforms. They replicate legitimate hotel, villa, or tour websites with cloned designs and even realistic customer service chats.

• You pay, but your booking doesn’t exist.
• Scammers often target long-term villa rentals (common for Phuket expats).

How to avoid:

• Only book via well-known platforms (Booking.com, Agoda, official hotel websites).
• Be cautious of private villa rental listings without verified reviews.
• Double-check URLs; scammers use similar-looking domains.

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2. “Crypto Investment” Approaches

Crypto-related scams are increasing, especially in expat-heavy areas like Phuket Town and Rawai. Scammers approach tourists or long-stayers promising quick crypto gains, luxury lifestyles, and “exclusive clubs.”

How to avoid:

• If someone offers you an investment “opportunity” casually — walk away.
• No legit investment opportunity approaches you at a bar or beach club.
• Thailand’s crypto regulations are strict — unlicensed schemes are illegal.

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3. Fake Taxi Apps & Clone Ride-Hailing Services

Besides Grab and Bolt, several fake taxi apps now circulate via QR codes, especially at Phuket Airport and Patong.

• Tourists download apps promising discounts.
• The apps harvest personal data or overcharge.

How to avoid:

• Only install apps directly from official App Stores (Apple App Store, Google Play).
• Never scan QR codes from random taxi drivers or touts.

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4. New Jet Ski “Sub-Damage” Scams

Jet ski scams are sadly persistent. In 2025, some operators have begun claiming “submerged damage” that can’t be seen from the surface after you return the jet ski.

• They demand huge repair fees (฿10,000+).
• Threats of calling police or holding your passport escalate the pressure.

How to avoid:

• Only rent from reputable operators with written contracts.
• Record a full video (including underneath if possible) before and after your ride.
• Never leave your passport as collateral — it’s illegal for operators to demand it.

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5. QR Code Donation Scams at Temples

In tourist-heavy temples (especially in Bangkok, but reported recently at Wat Chalong and Big Buddha in Phuket), fake monks or scammers place unofficial QR codes on donation boxes.

• Scanning these codes leads to personal data theft or fraudulent payments.

How to avoid:

• Make donations directly in cash or through official temple QR codes (usually clearly marked).
• Be wary of anyone aggressively asking for donations inside temple grounds.

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2️⃣ Persistent Classic Scams Still Active in Phuket

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• Jet Ski and Motorbike Damage Scams (still the #1 complaint)
• Gem Store and Tailor Commission Scams (mostly in Patong & Phuket Town)
• “Friendly” strangers offering tour deals (overpriced or never materialize)
• Bar scams: spiked drinks, inflated bar bills, and “lady companion” surprise charges
• Fake Police or “Visa Overstay” scare tactics on unsuspecting tourists (rare but happens)

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3️⃣ New Variation: Social Media “Romance” & Friendship Scams

2025 has seen an increase in tourists meeting locals via dating apps or social media, who slowly work them into romance or friendship scams:

• Money lending requests
• “Family emergency” stories
• Manipulation for financial support

How to avoid:

• Trust your instincts.
• If money comes into the conversation early — it’s a red flag.
• Use verified dating platforms carefully.

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4️⃣ Government Response & Warnings

Thai authorities are cracking down heavily on scams — with recent arrests and crackdowns in Patong, Rawai, and Phuket Town. New rules require:

• Proper licensing for all tour operators
• Stricter inspections on jet ski and motorbike rental businesses
• Increased airport surveillance for touts and fake taxi scams

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) actively encourages tourists to report scams via the tourist police hotline:
📞 1155 (available 24/7, English-speaking operators)

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🛡️ Final Tips to Stay Safe:

• Be cautious with strangers offering unsolicited help.
• Avoid doing business with street touts.
• Don’t flash large sums of cash.
• Use official transport apps.
• Take photos/videos of rented vehicles before use.

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Thailand — and Phuket especially — remains a fantastic destination in 2025. A bit of awareness goes a long way in ensuring you have a scam-free, stress-free trip. For more on what to enjoy safely after dark, check out our Ultimate Phuket Nightlife Guide 2025.