82% of Tourists Feel Safe in Bali, but Scams Remain a Serious Concern
Bali continues to be one of the world’s top travel destinations in 2026, with 82% of tourists reporting that they feel safe while visiting the island. This positive sentiment reflects Bali’s reputation as a welcoming and secure location for international travelers. However, recent reports highlight that scams targeting tourists remain a significant issue that authorities and visitors need to be aware of.
Traveler Safety Index Reflects Overall Safety, but Scams Dominate Reports
According to the Bali Sun’s newly developed Traveler Safety Index, which relies on real-time user feedback combined with thorough editorial audits, the overall safety rating for Bali stands at a stable 82 out of 100. Over the past month, police and travelers reported very few incidents of violent crime, with only two assaults and two thefts documented. However, scam incidents were notably higher, with 22 reported cases during the same period.
Types of Scams and Police Measures
These scams range from tourists being charged unfair fees for entry to supposedly free public beaches, overpriced parking fees, and the notorious money exchange scam, a long-standing problem in Bali’s tourist hotspots. Popular resort areas such as Canggu, Kuta, Legian, Seminyak, and Uluwatu are known to have increased police patrols day and night to deter criminal activities and protect visitors.
Discrepancies in Reporting and Call for Tourist Cooperation
While tourist reports to the Traveler Safety Index highlight these scams, Bali police note a lower number of official crime reports, which raises concerns about underreporting by travelers. Officials urge tourists to promptly report any incidents of scams or other crimes to the Bali Police or local security personnel. Reporting is essential for authorities to gather evidence and take effective action to maintain safety.
Police Presence Intensifies in Tourist Areas
The local police have stepped up their presence in high-traffic tourism zones, conducting surveillance patrols and stop-and-search operations to prevent and address criminal activity. First Inspector Ni Nyoman Ayu Inastuti, head of the Badung Police’s Public Relations Sub-Division, advises tourists to report any disturbances immediately via the nearest police station or by calling the National Police Call Center at 110. Conclusion
While Bali remains one of the safest destinations globally and welcomes millions of tourists annually, travelers should remain vigilant, particularly about scams that frequently target visitors. Authorities are committed to continuing their efforts to combat crime and keep Bali a safe and enjoyable destination for all. Tourists are encouraged to support these efforts by staying informed, reporting incidents promptly, and exercising caution during their stay.
BaliThisWeek brings you daily snapshots of life in Bali — from local updates and island stories to events, places, and community moments.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @balithisweek
Daily news: balithisweek.net/news/
Explore Bali: balithisweek.net/explore/
Contact us: contact@balithisweek.net
Add a comment