Common scam patterns — Thailand
Last updated:
Editorial notice
Patterns documented from public scam reports and provider feedback. New patterns emerge; report new ones to us via /contact.
- Elephant 'sanctuaries' that allow riding, bathing, or close tourist contact — these are not ethical sanctuaries, regardless of marketing language.
- Tiger temples and 'wildlife encounter' programs — refuse universally.
- Generic 'help underprivileged children' programs without specifics — often weak on safeguarding.
- Diving 'volunteer' programs that are really paid dive holidays.