Trip Scam

DestinationsMalaysiaJohor BahruScams

Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Common scams in Johor Bahru

10 reported scam patterns travellers run into in Johor Bahru, what they look like, and how to sidestep them.

Last updated 2026-08-09

Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, Johor Bahru
Photo: Alix Lee · Pexels License · source

Pictured: Sultan Abu Bakar State Mosque, Johor Bahru.

high1. Taxi meter fraud

Taxis at the border complex refusing meters and quoting fixed cross-border fares far above the going rate.

high2. Currency shortchange

Money changers near the causeway crossings shortchanging during rapid counts or applying commissions disclosed only after the exchange.

medium3. Dating app invite scam

Online contacts steering visitors to venues where a heavily inflated bill is produced.

medium4. Other

Car-park attendants demanding fees at spaces that are free or already metered.

medium5. Other

Unlicensed transport agents selling onward bus tickets to Singapore and Kuala Lumpur for services that are overbooked or non-existent.

medium6. Menu / bill switching

Restaurants near the crossing adding undisclosed service and 'foreigner' charges to bills.

medium7. Distraction theft

Pickpocketing in the queues and crush at the immigration complex during peak commuter hours.

medium8. Counterfeit goods

Counterfeit branded goods in the shopping districts close to the crossing, sold to day-trippers as genuine.

low9. Other

Massage and spa packages advertised at one price with mandatory extras applied at the venue.

low10. Rental overbooking

Hotels reassigning booked rooms to lower grades on arrival at the original rate.

Every entry above describes a pattern reported in an area of Johor Bahru, not an accusation against a specific business. Sources are labelled on each entry.

More about Johor Bahru