A screenshot shows the ride-hailing driver who took a foreigner’s phone to cancel a low-cost ride to charge a higher fare in Hanoi.
The video has gone viral on Vietnamese social media, sparking widespread anger and concerns over the capital's tourism image.
According to the circulating video, the female foreigner booked a ride for VND21,000 (US$0.8) via ride-hailing app Grab.
After accepting the booking, the Grab driver allegedly took the tourist’s phone and canceled the trip without her consent.
However, he still proceeded to drive her to her destination.
Upon arrival at No. 19 Hang Ca Street in Hoan Kiem Ward, the driver demanded VND50,000 ($1.9), more than double the original app fare.
When the tourist refused to pay the inflated amount, a verbal dispute broke out, escalating into a brief physical struggle during which the tourist sustained a minor scratch on her arm.
Onlookers intervened and criticized the driver's behavior, noting that such actions damage Hanoi’s reputation as a welcoming destination.
Despite public objections, the driver insisted that the higher fare was ‘reasonable.’
He only backed down and apologized after being confronted by local residents.
The video has since drawn strong criticism online, with many users condemning the driver’s conduct as unprofessional and exploitative.
