Malaysian Forced To Pay RM1,575 For Screen Protector At Petaling Street
The victim was assured that she only needed to pay RM25.
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A netizen shared in a Facebook group a few days ago that he thought he would only pay RM25 for a mobile phone protective film at Petaling Street.
She, however, ended up owning “the most expensive protective film”, which cost her RM1,575.
She took to social media to warn others to be careful about this kind of fraud.
The post also triggered a lot of discussion among netizens.
On the evening of 26 February, she passed by Petaling Street alone.
Suddenly, a salesperson said it only cost RM25 to change the protective film and mobile phone case.
She then followed the salesperson to their mobile phone shop.
After arriving at the store, the salesperson asked her for an ID card.
When she asked why she needed an ID card, the salesperson explained that there was insurance for mobile phone screens and registration was required.
I really thought that insurance was for the warranty, and then when his colleague entered my information into the computer for me to check, I suddenly saw details of an insurance with RM2,099 written on it. I asked what this was. He explained, if the screen is damaged later, a claim can be made.
The victim narrating the modus operandi used by the phone shop in Petaling Street.
She asked if she would be billed RM2,099, but the salesperson replied that she would not be billed that amount later on and assured her that only one payment was required.
Shock Of Her Life
After completing the replacement of the protective film and registration, the salesperson charged her RM2,099 plus RM25.
She asked him why it wasn’t RM25 as agreed, but the man said RM2,099 was insurance money.
The woman was deeply dissatisfied because she had been given assurance earlier on.
The salesperson argued that “it is true that the bill will not be sent later, but the money must be paid back immediately.”
She said that the clerk of the phone shop never mentioned RM2,099 from the beginning to the end and only said RM25 all the time.
She thought she understood the insurance charges, but now she has registered and cannot cancel it.
Since she was just a student and her bank account only had RM1,700, the final payment was lowered to RM1,575.
I don’t know why I give the money, instead of just turning around and leave. The salesman who brought me here explained to me that he wanted to ‘help’ me. I really thought he was a good person, so I cooperated with him to solve the problem. I really felt as if he is Buddha reincarnated.
The victim on why she decided to cough up the money despite being scammed.
Power Of Social Media
She did not reveal the shop’s name in her post and said she did not lodge a police report.
However, Facebook users left her comments asking her to file a report, saying that this was a fraudulent act. She finally revised the post and repeatedly emphasized that she would report the case.
The original post was shared over 10,000 times.
The victim eventually went to the DAP Bukit Bintang office to have someone accompany her to report the incident.
Eventually, the shop owner involved returned the money.
Now it remains to be seen if enforcement agencies will prosecute the shop owner.
Is Petaling Street A Good Place To Shop?
Petaling Street, also known as Chinatown, is a popular shopping destination in Kuala Lumpur.
It is known for its bustling street markets selling various goods such as clothes, accessories, electronics, souvenirs, and pets.
However, like any tourist hotspot, it’s important to exercise caution when shopping at Petaling Street.
Kuat scam betul kedai dekat petaling street ni. Saja tanya harga casing iphone 11 dia dengan selamba sebut rm65 satu. Harey aku beli rm10 je siak kat shopee.
— Dele (@DeleAbduls) February 16, 2020
While you may find some good deals and unique items, there are risks, such as counterfeit products, pickpocketing, and fraud.
If you do decide to shop in Petaling Street, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Bargain for the best price: Haggling is expected in Petaling Street, so don’t hesitate to negotiate with the vendors to get the best price possible.
- Check the quality of the products: Inspect the items you want to buy carefully before purchasing to ensure they are of good quality and not counterfeit.
- Keep your valuables safe: Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings to avoid becoming a victim of pickpocketing.
- Be cautious when buying pets: If you’re considering buying a pet, make sure to do your research on the breed and the seller to ensure the animal’s health and well-being.
While shopping in Petaling Street can be a fun and exciting experience, it’s important to stay alert and cautious to avoid potential risks.
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