The “eat-and-run” scam, also known as “dine and dash,” is a fraudulent practice where individuals or groups leave a restaurant or food establishment without paying for their meal. While this unethical act results in financial losses for businesses, there are often warning signs that can help restaurant owners and staff identify and prevent such scams. By recognizing these red flags, businesses can take proactive measures to protect themselves.
1. Large Groups with Suspicious Behavior
One of the most common red flags is when a large group enters a restaurant and exhibits suspicious behavior. Scammers often operate in groups to create 슈어맨 distractions, confuse waitstaff, and make it easier to escape. They may frequently change seats, move between tables, or pretend not to know each other. If a group is acting strangely, restaurant staff should stay alert and keep an eye on them.
2. Frequent Checking of Exits
Customers who continuously glance at the exits or position themselves near doors or open spaces might be planning an eat-and-run scam. This behavior suggests that they are mapping out a quick escape route. Restaurants should be cautious when guests seem more interested in the exit paths than the menu.
3. Ordering High-Value Items Without Concern for Price
Scammers may order expensive meals, premium drinks, or multiple dishes without hesitation. Unlike regular customers who consider cost and portion sizes, scammers often behave as if money is no concern—because they don’t plan on paying. If a customer’s order seems excessive and out of character, especially when combined with other red flags, staff should remain vigilant.
4. Constantly Switching Tables or Seats
A common tactic used by eat-and-run scammers is frequently changing tables or sitting arrangements. This tactic can make it harder for the staff to track them and create confusion when it’s time to settle the bill. If guests are continuously moving around or switching seats unnecessarily, it could be a sign of suspicious intentions.
5. Asking About Payment Methods in an Odd Manner
While it’s normal for customers to inquire about payment options, scammers may ask unusual questions about bills or transactions. For example, they might ask if they can pay later, if there’s a delay in the card machine, or if they can split the bill in a confusing way. These questions may be an attempt to test the restaurant’s payment process and find loopholes for an escape.
6. Creating Distractions or Fake Emergencies
Scammers often create distractions to execute their plan. They may spill drinks, start arguments, or pretend to have an emergency like a phone call or sudden illness. These tactics divert the attention of the staff while they slip away unnoticed. Restaurants should train employees to recognize when distractions seem intentional rather than accidental.
7. Leaving One Person Behind as a Decoy
Some eat-and-run scams involve leaving one person at the table while the rest of the group exits. The remaining individual may claim that the others are getting money from a car or ATM, only to leave themselves shortly after. Staff should be cautious if most of a group exits while leaving just one person behind.
Preventing Eat-and-Run Scams
Restaurants can take several measures to prevent eat-and-run scams, including:
- Training staff to recognize suspicious behavior
- Using security cameras and placing them near exits
- Requesting payment before serving high-value meals
- Having clear policies for large groups or unfamiliar customers
By staying alert and identifying these red flags, restaurant owners and staff can reduce the risk of eat-and-run scams and protect their business from financial losses.