New York City Council investigators found widespread deceptive practices by unlicensed taxis, pedicabs and ticket vendors in major tourist areas, prompting calls for stronger enforcement and public education ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and other high-profile events.
In a report released Monday, titled “Taken For a Ride,” the Council’s Oversight and Investigations Division documented inflated prices, misleading advertising and illegal operations in Battery Park, Midtown Manhattan and Coney Island. The findings are based on undercover fieldwork, observations and dozens of interactions with operators.
Investigators said many operators falsely presented themselves as licensed while bypassing required permits and safety standards. In Battery Park, ticket vendors often appeared to be official sellers but failed to display valid licenses. Some pedicab drivers operated without proper Department of Consumer and Worker Protection licenses or valid driver’s licenses, while certain vehicles posed as legitimate rideshare services despite not being registered.
The report also found pricing practices that obscured actual costs. Investigators observed pedicab drivers covering required rate signage or failing to disclose per-minute charges. Some Statue of Liberty ticket sellers quoted base prices without revealing additional transportation fees, while others misled customers into believing tours included stops on Liberty Island when they did not.
Council Speaker Julie Menin said protecting visitors is critical as the city prepares for an influx of tourists for events including the World Cup, the NBA Finals and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
“Visitors must feel safe, informed, and confident that they will be treated fairly,” Menin said, adding that stronger enforcement and coordination among agencies are needed to protect consumers and the city’s reputation.
The Council recommended increased enforcement in high-traffic tourist areas and better coordination among agencies including the NYPD, Department of Transportation and Department of Parks and Recreation. It also called for tracking complaints during major events to identify repeat violations.
In addition, the Council urged the implementation of recently passed legislation requiring the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection to develop and promote educational materials to help tourists recognize common scams.
Council Member Shekar Krishnan, who chairs the Committee on Oversight and Investigations, said illegal operators harm both consumers and workers who follow the rules.
Council Member Harvey Epstein said the findings highlight how common scams are across the sightseeing and for-hire vehicle industries, while Deputy Leader Sandra Ung said educating visitors about deceptive practices is key to prevention.
Council Member Christopher Marte said the city must address enforcement gaps, particularly in heavily visited areas like Battery Park, to ensure tourists can experience New York “safely and honestly.”
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
