Swiss tourist’s Reddit post on scams in India sparks online debate
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A Swiss traveller’s post about scams in India has ignited widespread discussion on Reddit.
The tourist shared his experience under the title “I enjoy travelling in India, but I can't recommend it to anyone.”
He said that in only two days, he had already encountered several scam attempts.
He described how an Uber driver allegedly claimed the road ahead was blocked by a landslide and diverted him to a hotel. There, staff reportedly tried to overcharge him. Suspicious, he gave them an ultimatum — arrange another taxi or face a negative online review. The staff eventually called another cab, but the incident ruined his plans for the evening.
Frustrated, he wrote, “Hello, this is my 2nd time in India and I have been here for only 2days… it's crazy how people want to scam me so bad all the time, it's just part of their business model at this point.” He added, “And my point is, I would not tell my mom, my sister or my friends to come here, it's just so much scams going on and many people have bad intentions towards you. In just 2days, I witnessed so many attempts.”
His account drew mixed reactions.
Some Reddit users sympathised with him, saying scams are common. “Sorry for your experience, mate!! If it's any consolation, we fellow Indians are not immune to these scams either,” one user commented.
Another user noted, “There are too many people there with minimal resources. People scamming others is, unfortunately, just an everyday thing. It's just a way of life, but on the other side, there are a ton of really good people, too. But sadly, if you are a traveller who has to deal with people for your travels, it's mostly disappointing.”
Others argued scams are not unique to India.
“Tourists everywhere are seen as easy targets because they don't know the local prices, routes, or customs, so some people try to take advantage… the best way to handle it is by doing a bit of research beforehand, learn the common scams, stick to well rated apps or official services, and checking routes/accommodation in advance,” one wrote.
Several commenters also pointed out that weak law enforcement and the ability to bribe officials allow such scams to continue. But they emphasised that India still has many genuine and welcoming people.
