Scam in MalaysiaShopping
Fake positive reviews in Malaysia
How it works
Made-up positive reviews raise a business's average score. This can make an unreliable seller look trustworthy.
Warning signs
- A high review score is the only reason you trust the seller.
- You cannot find independent information supporting the reviews.
How to avoid it
- Read individual reviews rather than only the average score.
- Compare information across independent places.
- Use established, reputable sellers.
If it happens to you
- Put safety first. Move to a busy, secure place. Do not chase a thief or fight over valuables.
- Call 999 if you are in immediate danger or need emergency help.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, messages, booking details and transaction records. Write down the time, place and any vehicle details.
- Report theft, robbery or fraud to the police. Ask for a copy or reference number for the report.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate about replacement documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
- Redditr/malaysia2025Opinions on business who use fake reviews ?Customers described Malaysian food businesses offering free food in exchange for five-star reviews, including a Johor cafe.Read on Reddit
- Redditr/malaysia2024Fake Review SiteA poster raised concerns about paid five-star restaurant reviews, while commenters suspected a review-task scam.Read on Reddit
Questions
What is the fake positive reviews scam in Malaysia?
Made-up positive reviews raise a business's average score. This can make an unreliable seller look trustworthy.
How can I spot it early?
A high review score is the only reason you trust the seller. You cannot find independent information supporting the reviews.
How do I avoid fake positive reviews in Malaysia?
Read individual reviews rather than only the average score. Compare information across independent places. Use established, reputable sellers.
Where in Malaysia does this happen?
Online reviews of shops and businesses.
How common is this scam in Malaysia?
Occasional. Malaysia is generally safe for visitors. The main risks are taxi overcharging, pickpocketing, bag snatching and dishonest sellers. Less common traps include fake police checks and friendly invitations that lead to a poker scam.
Are there similar scams in Malaysia?
Yes: tourist market overcharging, fake antiques, counterfeit branded goods.
Who can I report it to?
Emergency services: call 999 if there is immediate danger, serious injury or another emergency. Police: go to a police station to report theft, robbery or fraud. Bring any evidence and ask for a report reference or copy. Card issuer or bank: use your banking app or the issuer's official contact channel to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Taxi operator or booking service: report a fare dispute or unsafe driver through the operator's official complaint channel. Include your receipt, trip details and vehicle information. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is lost or stolen and you need replacement travel documents. Travel insurer: contact the insurer through its official claims channel. Keep the police report, receipts and evidence of your loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Malaysia?
Central emergency number: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck