With the nice weather, everyone wants to enjoy the terraces. However, some take advantage of this to scam you without you realizing it. This restaurant scam is becoming increasingly common. You may think you ordered two dishes, but you could end up paying for three… Some unscrupulous restaurateurs use very simple techniques to inflate your bill.
If you don’t pay close attention, the scam can go unnoticed. It often happens quickly, is well-hidden, and you only realize it after you’ve paid. There’s no reason to let this ruin your outing. To avoid being caught off guard, it’s best to know how they operate.
How Restaurants Trick Customers without Them Realizing It
In some places, dishonest individuals use clever tricks to make you pay more. Sometimes, they add a dish or drink you never ordered.
Other times, they list double quantities on the bill when you only had a single serving. Some even write prices that are higher than what is displayed on the menu. Everything is designed so that you won’t notice anything amiss.
The servers remain very nice and smiling. They speak quickly or rush you, making you pay without thinking. This is what is known as a discreet scam. If you don’t examine your bill closely, you will never spot the issue.
Why This Scam is More Common in Spring and Summer
When the weather is nice, people go out more often. Terraces fill up. There are crowds everywhere. Restaurants are busy, servers are rushing from table to table, and everything moves very fast. This is the perfect moment to trap customers.
In spring and summer, there are also many tourists. These individuals may not always be familiar with the standard prices or may not speak French well. They tend to pay less attention and don’t check the small details. That’s why scams increase when the sun comes out. More people, more noise, making it easier for the scams to go unnoticed.
Who Are the Main Victims of This Scam
Primarily, it’s the tourists who get caught. This is because they may not be aware of the usual prices. They are often in a rush or tired after a long day. Sometimes, they trust and don’t always check the bill.
Young people are also a target. When they’re out with friends, they’re laughing, talking loudly, and paying less attention. Large families can also be targeted. With several dishes and drinks, the bill becomes harder to verify. These customers are thus easy targets for scammers.
Good Reflexes to Avoid Getting Caught in the Trap
To avoid being scammed, be sure to check your bill carefully before paying. Remind yourself of what you ordered. If something seems off, ask questions. A legitimate restaurateur has nothing to hide.
Also, be cautious if you pay with your contactless card. Always verify the amount displayed before tapping your card. If you notice an error afterward, keep the receipt and contact your bank. You can also report the restaurant on SignalConso to help others avoid falling into the trap.
