Beware! Taxi hyenas in Budapest are using new tricks to scam tourists
Taking a taxi in Budapest isn’t always a safe or fair experience—especially for those hailing a cab right off the street. According to the Budapest Transport Center (BKK), it’s mainly foreign visitors who fall victim to unscrupulous drivers who use various tricks to charge passengers far more than the legal fare. Authorities are stepping up inspections and imposing stiff fines in an effort to weed out dishonest operators and ensure peace of mind for honest drivers and passengers alike.
Are taxi scams on the rise?
As VG reports, rogue taxi drivers who solicit rides directly from the street—rather than through official bookings—continue to pose a serious problem in Budapest. The BKK says foreigners are most at risk, commonly being charged several times the normal fare. During major festivals, inspectors monitor the situation closely; in a recent sweep, 30 citations were issued. Common violations include lack of permits and required documentation, failure to issue receipts, and various fare manipulation schemes.
New tricks at the POS terminal
Scams involving point-of-sale (POS) terminals have become increasingly common. In some cases, drivers enter an extra zero into the payment amount while hiding the screen, so the passenger only notices the overcharge afterward. In other instances, the currency is switched from Hungarian forints to Swiss francs, generating hefty additional fees. These methods primarily target tourists unfamiliar with local pricing and regulations.
Heavy fines
It’s not uncommon for drivers to refuse inspections even after BKK agents properly identify themselves. Some simply drive off without turning over their permits or required documents. Such behavior carries a fine of HUF 1,040,000 (approx. USD 3,050), implemented by the transport authority. Inspectors document these incidents on the spot and back it up with photo and video evidence to ensure accountability.
Coordinated enforcement
While taxi operations at Liszt Ferenc International Airport have become more orderly in recent years, BKK continues routine inspections in coordination with police and airport security. Across the capital, various agencies—including the municipal police (BRFK), tax authority (NAV), consumer protection bureau, and public space inspectors—are working together to identify and stop fraudulent drivers. The goal is to allow honest taxi drivers to work without interference and ensure passengers can travel safely and at fair rates, whether they’re headed downtown or to the airport.
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