Money Changer Scams in Bali: How the Trick Works and How to Avoid It (2026)

How the trick works

The classic version goes like this. You see a board advertising a better exchange rate than anywhere else nearby. Inside, the attendant counts out a large pile of rupiah, then hands it to you to count. It's all there. Then the attendant takes the pile back to "recount just to be sure" — and, very skillfully, slips a few notes off the bottom or folds some under the counter. You get the pile back, it looks the same, and you leave short.

Variations include calculators that give the wrong total, a sudden "commission" that wasn't mentioned, or a rate that applies only to large notes in perfect condition.

The one rule: count last

Always be the last person to count your money. Once you have counted it and it's correct, don't hand it back for any reason. If the attendant insists on recounting, ask them to count in front of you without touching the notes, or cancel the transaction and ask for your own money back.

Warning signs

• A rate that's much better than everywhere else. Legitimate changers compete on small margins. A rate that's clearly better is the bait.
• A tiny booth at the back of a souvenir shop or minimarket, with no proper counter or receipt.
• Several people crowding around or chatting to distract you while you count.
• Hands under the counter during counting.
• Pressure to finish quickly, or annoyance when you count slowly.

Where to change money

• Banks and their exchange counters.
• Authorised money changers with a proper office, posted rates, a receipt, and visible Bank Indonesia authorisation. They may offer a slightly lower rate than the scam boards, which is exactly the point.
• ATMs are often the simplest option altogether — see cash in Ubud for how to use them safely.

How to change money safely

1. Check the posted rate and ask whether there is any commission before handing over your cash.
2. Work out the total yourself on your phone.
3. Let the attendant count the rupiah onto the counter in front of you.
4. Count it yourself, slowly, in a stack you keep hold of.
5. Only then hand over your foreign currency.
6. Put the money away before you leave the counter, and ask for a receipt.

If it happens to you

If you notice the shortfall immediately, go back calmly and ask for the difference; sometimes it is "found". If you've already left, it's usually not recoverable — treat it as a lesson and use authorised changers or ATMs from then on.