Ranked by what travellers confirmed and lost — not by how alarming a report sounded.
The five with the strongest evidence behind them right now.
Someone befriends you and offers a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to buy gems at wholesale prices and resell them abroad for huge profit. They may show you fake export certificates. The gems are worthless glass or low-quality stones.
TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.
People in uniforms claiming to be police ask to check your wallet for "counterfeit money" or your passport for "verification." They steal cash or demand bribes.
Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).
Money changers quote favorable rates but use sleight of hand when counting, give you wrong change, or swap large bills for smaller ones.
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
People ask you to sign a "petition" for a charity. After signing, they demand a "minimum donation" of 5000+ LKR and show a fake list with other large donations.
Drivers take you to "free" spice gardens. After a long tour, staff pressure you to buy overpriced spices/oils (10x market price).
Driver takes unnecessarily long routes to increase meter fare. They may claim "road closed" or "festival today" to justify detours.
Restaurants without visible prices. Bill arrives with inflated charges (500 LKR coconut becomes 1500 LKR). "Service charges" added without disclosure.
Driver claims your destination (temple, hotel, etc.) is closed for holiday/renovation and suggests an alternative (where they get commission).
People outside stations offer to "help" buy tickets but charge large markups. They may buy cheap third-class tickets and sell as more expensive classes.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
These are paid models (not real fishermen). They demand 1000-2000 LKR per photo. Legitimate at first, but then more "fishermen" appear demanding separate payments.