Press "PandaGuides" above to follow us!
In a bizarre case from Suzhou, Jiangsu province, three 16-year-old teenagers used a delivery app loophole to sustain themselves on just 19 yuan (approximately $2.50) for an entire month. By repeatedly ordering meals, consuming them, and then requesting refunds under false pretenses, they not only lived well beyond their means but also sparked widespread outrage on social media.
The trio allegedly took turns ordering meals, claiming either that the food was never delivered or that it was contaminated with insects. To avoid suspicion, they directed deliveries to a neighboring address, sneaking over to collect the food afterward. This fraudulent scheme enabled them to afford breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even late-night snacks.
Living in a run-down rental apartment, the teens exploited the app's refund policy, which is designed to protect genuine customers. Using their limited funds, they managed to recycle the same 19 yuan repeatedly for daily meals over the course of a month.
The scheme eventually unraveled when delivery drivers and restaurant owners grew suspicious and reported the matter to the police. Authorities detained the three youths for investigation. Although they were found guilty of fraud, administrative detention was not enforced due to their underage status and the fact that it was their first offense.
The incident caused significant disruption to local delivery services and restaurant businesses. Initial rumors suggested that over ten delivery drivers and multiple restaurants had their accounts suspended due to the teenagers’ actions. However, on November 25, Meituan, the delivery platform involved, clarified in a public statement that no drivers or merchants were banned. The platform also confirmed that the costs incurred from the fraudulent refunds were covered by the company itself.
The story ignited heated discussions online, with many condemning the teenagers’ actions as both unethical and harmful. One user commented, “These delivery drivers work hard to earn a living. How can anyone justify exploiting their labor?” Another added, “This behavior not only harms businesses but also erodes trust in the refund system meant to protect real customers.”
However, others pointed out systemic issues in delivery platforms. “If refund processes were more stringent, cases like this wouldn’t happen. Platforms need to strike a balance between protecting consumers and safeguarding businesses,” said a netizen.
