HK Renovation Scam: Fake Worker Swindles HK$110K

May 07

4 minutes

The blog post has been auto-translated.

HK Renovation Scam: Fake Worker Swindles HK$110K post illustrative image

Earlier, the police arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of the crime of "obtaining property by deception." The case alleges that the man falsely claimed to be a plumbing and electrical worker, posted fake advertisements on online platforms offering plumbing, electrical, and renovation services, took deposits, and then disappeared, making off with a total of HK$110,000.

Using Company-Named Receipts to Enhance Credibility

Police recently received a report from a man who claimed to have met a renovation worker on an online platform. The worker quoted HK$12,000 for a water meter installation project. The two later met to discuss the details of the project. During the discussion, the victim let his guard down due to the worker's use of professional jargon. After paying the deposit, the worker became unreachable, and the victim realized he had been scammed.

According to police investigations, the scammer prepared quotations in advance for each interaction with the victim and issued receipts bearing a fake company name after collecting the deposit to appear more credible. The scammer also provided minor renovation services to the victim before making further requests for payment under various pretexts, such as purchasing renovation materials. The victim, having seen some progress in the work, grew less suspicious. By the time the scammer disappeared after receiving the money, the victim realized he had been deceived.

At least 15 people scammed, total losses amount to HK$110,000

Police discovered that the fraudster was active on various social media platforms posing as a plumbing and electrical repairman, falsely claiming to provide various home maintenance and renovation services, including plumbing, electrical work, painting, and more. However, investigations revealed that the suspect was not a registered plumbing or electrical technician, though he had previously worked in related fields and was familiar with industry terminology. Additionally, he had not registered any company, and the company name printed on his invoices did not exist.

The suspect is linked to at least 15 similar fraud cases across Kowloon and the New Territories, involving approximately HK$110,000 in total losses. The largest single case amounted to HK$50,000. The earliest victim reports date back to August of last year, and authorities do not rule out the possibility of the suspect being involved in other cases. Multiple victim support groups targeting a man matching his description have also emerged on social media platforms.

Police arrest 46-year-old local man claiming to be unemployed

Upon receiving a report, the police successfully identified the suspect. It was later discovered that the man was about to contact a new victim, prompting swift action. A 46-year-old local man surnamed Chan, who claimed to be unemployed, was arrested in Kwai Chung. The police found quotation forms, receipts, renovation tools related to multiple cases, as well as a fake company seal on him.

The police urge the public to remain vigilant when conducting online transactions and to verify the identity and relevant details of the other party to avoid falling into similar fraud traps. Those who suspect or have encountered fraud can contact the Kwai Tsing District Crime Squad Team 1 at 3661 2937 or 9471 7672. The police emphasize that "obtaining property by deception" is a serious offense, with a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment upon conviction, and advise the public not to break the law. For any suspicions, the public can also call the "Anti-Deception Coordination Centre Hotline 18222" for inquiries. In case of emergencies, please call 999 directly.

Want to avoid becoming the next victim?

To avoid becoming the next victim, you can join the Decoration Academy's Flagship Decoration Anti-Scam Course. This course is designed to raise awareness of renovation scams, where participants will learn how to identify common scam tactics and avoid pitfalls. After completing the course, participants will enhance their ability to prevent scams, thereby avoiding being deceived in future renovation projects.