The Police would like to remind the public of fake restaurant reservation scams during the festive season. Businesses are advised to remain vigilant as scammers may ask for bulk orders of off-menu items under the pretext of making reservations, (e.g. expensive wine, seafood) to defraud victims.
Scammers, pretending to be “customers” may call up food and beverage (F&B) operators to reserve numerous tables and ask for expensive off-menu items. The victim would be provided with the contact details of a fake supplier for these off-menu items and would be informed that a deposit or payment had already been made by the “customer” to the victim’s bank account. In some instances, the “customers” would send a forged screenshot showing funds being transferred to the F&B operator’s bank account. Victims would then be directed to contact the fake supplier, where they would make payments to order the items requested by the “customer”. Victims would only realise that they had been scammed when they discovered that they did not receive any funds from the “customer”, or when the off-menu items were not delivered and/or the “customer” becomes uncontactable.
F&B operators are advised to be cautious and take the following precautions:
- When dealing with new suppliers, avoid making payments or deposits in advance. Arrange to meet the supplier and pay only upon delivery of the goods.
- Search online for reviews of suppliers to establish their legitimacy before committing to a purchase.
For more information on scams, members of the public can visit www.scamalert.sg or call the Anti-Scam Hotline at 1800-722-6688. Anyone with information on such scams may call the Police hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit information online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness. Together, we can help stop scams and prevent our loved ones from falling prey to scams.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
13 December 2022 @ 11:50 AM