● There have been numerous reports of individuals falling victim to so-called “scam dining” cases in Shanghai, where they are approached—either via dating apps or on the street—by women they don’t know and are invited out for food or drinks, only to be charged exorbitant fees afterward.
● If you are currently staying in or planning to travel to the Shanghai area, please be cautious and do not accept invitations from strangers. We also urge you to alert business travelers and others in your group.
These incidents typically involve a woman, believed to be local, who makes contact through a dating app or approaches the target while they are walking around the city. The victim is then invited to a bar or restaurant, where they are later presented with an unreasonably high bill. These scam cases continue to be reported frequently.
Please keep the following points in mind:
[Caution 1]
Avoid accepting invitations from strangers too casually. If you let the other person order food or drinks for you, it may become harder to prove you were scammed. And once you agree to go along, you may feel pressured to stay, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the location or feel unsafe.
[Caution 2]
Using dating apps—especially when meeting strangers in person—comes with inherent risks. Many victims say afterward, “I thought I was careful,” or “I didn’t think I would be fooled.” Please stay alert.
[Caution 3]
Engaging in any inappropriate behavior with minors is a serious crime, even if both parties appear to consent. Be fully aware of the legal consequences.
