A Malaysian man has shared a cautionary tale after falling victim to a sophisticated “meal trap” scam, commonly known as “饭托” (fan tuo) or “仙人跳” (xian ren tiao) in the local community. The scam, which typically involves women luring men to a restaurant, ordering expensive food and drinks without their knowledge, before making up an excuse to leave as the man is about to pay.

An unsuspecting man became the target of a premeditated scam at a regular café

The incident began when the man, known as Lee Seven on Facebook, met a local woman through WeChat’s “Nearby People” feature. They arranged to meet for the first time, and she requested that he pick her up after work. Upon meeting, he noticed that she did not exit from the workplace she had claimed but from a different location. Shortly after, she expressed that she was hungry and wanted to eat. When he suggested nearby restaurants, she insisted on a specific café.

Once seated, the pair ordered food using individual QR codes on their phones. Lee chose a simple nasi lemak (RM6.90) and 100 Plus drink (RM3.50). Meanwhile, the woman began ordering a variety of dishes, starting with “snacks”, including five tiny scallops coated in batter priced at RM157.90, and four small battered abalones costing RM189. She encouraged him to try these, making it difficult to refuse.

The woman’s main orders were equally extravagant, a A5 Wagyu beef (RM383.90), bird’s nest soup (RM46.80), and two glasses of berry gin lemon water (RM157.60). She also requested additional takeaway items, reportedly totaling RM859 in Wagyu beef for her family.

After finishing her meal, she excused herself and left the café. When Lee attempted to pay, he was shocked to find the total bill exceeding RM2,000. He realized he had been ensnared in a classic “meal trap” scam. Complicating matters, the café staff strategically positioned themselves to prevent him from leaving without paying.

The victim called the police via 999, avoided the nearby station he suspected was compromised

Speaking to the alleged manager from the restaurant, the victim revealed that he will be making a police report.

“They told me that I’m more than encouraged to make a police report and even suggested the police station nearby”, he said.

Afraid that the police station may be compromised, the man insisted on calling 999. At this point, the woman then returned, pretending that she had forgotten something. Ultimately, the man negotiated to pay only for his own meal (RM12.05, including tax) and the small snacks he had eaten a few bites of (RM402.40), totaling to RM414.45. He later filed a formal police report at the headquarters to ensure that there was an official documentation.

Be aware of any suspicious scams

The victim urges the public to share his experience widely to prevent friends and family from falling prey to similar scams. If facing, remember to report any suspicious behavior to the authorities immediately.

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