Scams targeting tourists in Goa have become increasingly common, particularly in areas surrounding casinos and popular beaches.
Visitors are often approached with offers that appear legitimate but are designed to mislead.
We understand how challenging it can be to deal with scams in Goa, whether you’re visiting for the first time or not.
This article addresses scams such as fake casino passes, hotel booking fraud, card skimming, transport overcharging, etc.
By the end of this article, you will also understand how these scams typically occur and what steps you can take to prevent them.
Scams to Avoid in Goa: Quick Overview
Scams can sometimes impact the travel experience, making it essential to stay vigilant and prepared.
| Scam Type | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Fake Casino Entry Passes | Touts sell counterfeit entry bands outside casinos |
| Rigged Casino Games | Game manipulation by staff or local players working together |
| Hotel Booking Scams | Fake or misleading property listings on booking platforms |
| Overpriced Transport | Taxi drivers charging inflated rates to tourists |
| Card Skimming | Theft of card information at ATMs or payment terminals |
Scams to Avoid in Goa: All You Need To Know
Staying informed about common scams can help you make safer choices and enjoy your time in Goa without unnecessary hassles.
Fake Casino Entry Passes
Scammers outside popular casinos sell fake entry bands or vouchers at discounted prices.
These passes usually don’t work at casino entrances, leaving tourists stranded after they have paid money upfront.
In 2024, the Goa police arrested several individuals selling fake entry passes near the Deltin Royale casino, with over 200 tourists falling victim to this scam
How to avoid the scam
Always purchase entry passes directly from official casino counters or authorized ticket booths. Legitimate casinos have clear signage and uniformed staff at entry points.
Rigged Casino Games
Some smaller, unauthorized gambling venues use rigged equipment or employ staff who work with local players to cheat tourists.
Card games and roulette wheels may be manipulated to ensure visitors lose money.
How to avoid:
Stick to licensed casinos in Goa with proper gaming licenses. These establishments face regular inspections and have reputations to maintain
Hotel Booking Scams
Fraudsters create fake hotel listings on booking websites with attractive photos and low prices. After receiving payment, they either provide substandard accommodations or disappear entirely.
The Times of India reported a multi-crore scam in January 2025 where fraudsters created fake hotel listings, affecting over 500 tourists visiting Goa.
How to avoid the scam
Book through verified platforms, read recent reviews, and verify hotel contact details independently. Call the property directly to confirm your reservation.
Overpriced Transport
Taxi drivers often quote inflated fares to tourists, especially those heading to or from casinos late at night. Some drivers may also take longer routes to increase the fare.
Tourist police in Goa regularly receive complaints about taxi drivers charging tourists three times the fare.
In a viral video, a tourist slams Goa’s tourism industry and claims that the taxi unions are almost like a transport mafia.
How to avoid the scam
Use official prepaid taxi services, ride-sharing apps, or negotiate fares before starting your journey. Ask locals about standard rates for common routes.
Card Skimming and Payment Frauds
Criminals install skimming devices on ATMs or use handheld card readers to steal card information. Some establishments may also run cards through unauthorized devices.
The Goa police recently busted a card-skimming racket that specifically targeted tourists visiting casinos, resulting in losses exceeding ₹ 1 lakh.
How to avoid the scam.
Use ATMs inside banks or hotels, cover your PIN while entering, and regularly monitor your account statements. Prefer cash transactions at smaller venues.
Did you know? Amid rising illegal gambling and scam-like prize schemes, the ban on Housie in Goa has stirred concern in traditional village communities.
Common Red Flags to Watch Out For in Goa
Scammers in Goa frequently employ tactics to pressure or deceive tourists. Watch for these common signs:
- High-pressure sales tactics
Scammers often try to rush you by creating fake urgency or limited-time offers. They usually avoid giving written agreements or proper documentation.
- Too-good-to-be-true offers
Unrealistically cheap packages for hotels, casinos, or transport often mean hidden costs or poor service.
- Cash-only demands
Be cautious if someone insists on cash payment, especially for expensive services. Legitimate businesses usually offer receipts and multiple payment options.
- Unlicensed individuals and services
You may be approached by unofficial guides or money changers who offer deals better than official sources. Some may get aggressive if you decline their services.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed in Goa?
If you get scammed, act fast to protect yourself and report the incident properly:
- Contact Tourist Police
Call 1363 or go to the nearest tourist police station for help. These officers are trained to assist tourists.
- Report to local authorities
File an FIR at the local police station where the scam happened. This creates an official report for investigation.
- Keep all evidence
Save any receipts, screenshots, photos, or written communication related to the scam. These can support your complaint.
- Notify your bank
If your card or financial information was used, contact your bank immediately to block the card and dispute any unauthorized charges.
- Document everything
Write down all details, including names, places, and the timeline of the incident. Clear records help with follow-ups.
- Contact your embassy
If you’re an international tourist and the scam involves a significant loss or theft of essential documents, inform your embassy or consulate for assistance.
Tips for Staying Scam-Free in Goa
With some basic precautions, you can enjoy your trip safely and avoid scams:
- Research before you travel
Learn about common scams in Goa and check the average prices for services such as taxis, tours, and hotels.
- Avoid sharing travel plans publicly.
Don’t post your itinerary on social media or talk about it with strangers, as scammers can use this information to target you.
- Don’t carry all your money at once
Split your money and cards between your wallet, hotel safe, or luggage. Only carry what you need for the day.
- Stay alert in crowded areas.
Keep your belongings secure and exercise caution in crowded areas, such as markets, beaches, or transportation hubs.
- Use official services
Book tours, taxis, and accommodations through licensed operators or verified apps. Always ask for proper receipts.
Related Read:
Conclusion: Watch Out For These 5 Popular Scams in Goa
Goa’s thriving tourism industry has, unfortunately, created opportunities for scammers to target visitors.
From fake casino passes to hotel booking frauds, these scams cost tourists crores every year. Staying alert and informed about common scam tactics can protect your travel budget.
Your awareness is your best defense. With a cautious approach and the proper precautions, you can enjoy Goa’s authentic charm without falling prey to fraudsters.
FAQs
In some unlicensed venues, staff may collude with locals to manipulate games or exploit tourists through overcharging.
It is not safe to accept free chip offers, as they are often linked to scams involving fake chips or tricks that lure you to unauthorized games.
In such cases, it’s essential to walk away and report any coercion to casino security or tourist police, as this behavior often signals a scam.
