1. Unlicensed Drivers Offering “Cheap Rides” Inside the Terminal

One of the most common scams involves unlicensed drivers approaching travelers inside the terminal or right outside baggage claim.

Red flags:

• Someone walks up to you saying “Taxi, taxi?” or “Cheap ride, my friend?”
• No official airport ID, no marked vehicle, no visible license.

Risks: overcharging, unsafe driving, no insurance coverage, and no way to complain or get help if something goes wrong.

How to avoid it: ignore unsolicited offers and only use official taxi lines, pre-booked black car services , or rideshare pickups in designated areas.

2. Surge Pricing Traps on Rideshare Apps

Rideshare prices can skyrocket during peak hours, bad weather, or flight rushes. Travelers see a “quick” option but end up paying two to four times the normal fare.

How to avoid it:

• Check the fare estimate before confirming the ride.
• Compare with a flat-rate airport car service for a more predictable price.
• If the price looks unusually high, wait a few minutes or consider a pre-booked service.

3. Fake Taxi Stands and “Alternative Pick-Up Zones”

Some scammers create the appearance of a taxi stand or shout instructions like “Taxi here!” in random areas outside the terminal to lure confused visitors.

How to avoid it:

• Follow only the airport’s official signs for “Taxi”, “Ground Transportation”, or “Car Service”.
• When in doubt, ask an airport employee, not a stranger.

4. Overcharging for Luggage

Some unlicensed or dishonest drivers try to charge extra per suitcase, sometimes $20–$40 per bag, claiming “airport rules” or “luggage fee”.

How to avoid it: use licensed taxis or professional car services that include reasonable luggage in the quoted price. Always confirm if there are extra baggage fees before getting into the vehicle.

5. Tampered Taxi Meters

A less frequent but serious scam involves manipulated taxi meters that run faster than normal, turning a standard fare into an inflated one.

How to protect yourself:

• Check that the meter starts at the correct base rate.
• Compare your final fare with the official NYC Taxi Rate Card or a fare estimator.
• If something feels wrong, ask for a receipt and note the taxi number.

6. Fake “Airport Shuttle Services” That Never Arrive

Some websites or individuals advertise low-cost shared shuttles, take payment upfront, and then never show up or provide incomplete service.

How to avoid it:

• Book only with well-known shuttle brands or reputable car service companies.
• Look for real reviews, not just testimonials on a single page.
• Always check that you receive a booking confirmation email with contact information.

7. “Cash-Only” Drivers Avoiding Receipts

Scammers often insist on being paid in cash and refuse to provide a receipt, making it impossible to dispute the fare or identify the driver later.

How to avoid it:

• Prefer services that allow credit card or digital payments.
• Ask for a receipt every time you travel by taxi or car service.
• If a driver refuses to give a receipt, consider choosing another vehicle.

Final Safety Tips for Arriving in New York

New York City is a world-class destination, and the vast majority of trips to and from its airports are completely safe. By staying aware of these common scams, travelers can enjoy a smooth arrival or departure without stress.

• Plan your transportation before you land.
• Use licensed, reputable companies with clear pricing.
• Trust your instincts—if an offer feels too good to be true, it usually is.

With a little preparation and awareness, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your time in New York City.