Amsterdam taxi scam targets tourists with inflated prices

A taxi scam known as the ‘handbrake method’ is targeting tourists in Amsterdam, particularly at major hubs like Amsterdam Centraal Station. The scheme involves a coordinated effort where the first driver in a queue refuses a passenger's request, claiming the trip is not profitable. Subsequently, another driver from the same queue offers to take the passenger but at a significantly inflated fixed price.

There are suspicions that drivers are actively coordinating to exploit travelers who are unfamiliar with local taxi rates. The issue has gained political attention in the Netherlands, with the VVD party raising questions in Parliament. State Secretary Annet Bertram of the CDA has acknowledged the problem, and an investigation is expected to take place this autumn.