THIS is why I have trust issues
Hellooo! This is my first Lemon8 post & I just wanna share how I somewhat got scammed $30 to purchase a salon membership..
Storytime!
I was looking at some POP Marts at Bugis+ when two friendly young women in their early 20s approached me, complimenting my hair. I was really touched because I wasn’t feeling my best that day and knowing that two strangers were being so nice to me, made my day. They then offered a free haircut through their salon's premium membership (I should’ve left right then and there but realised it too late 😭). Intrigued by the word "FREE”, I looked at their pamphlet, which also mentioned a discounted scalp therapy. In my mind, I was like, “OK SIGN ME UP!!” I assumed I could pay for it later at the salon just because I have the membership card, and not right then.
They were very persuasive…However, after signing up, they dropped the bombshell that I had to pay $30 for the card. I was shocked and explained that I had no money, but they insisted I call someone for help. They claimed I couldn't back out because I had already signed the pamphlet and they tore it out for their use so technically, it has been redeemed. Y’all I was at the brink of tears because ya gurl can’t handle pressure..They literally stood there and waited for me to do something until I had money to give! I should’ve just ran to the exit HAHAHA but feeling trapped, I reluctantly transferred the $30 from my savings account even though I literally had $10 (in my spendings account) to my name...😔 I guess it wasn’t really a scam but more of them coercing me to pay for their premium membership right at the very end when they DID NOT mention any fee at the start. After the whole situation, I just felt cheated and regret being too gullible without questioning them thoroughly :’)
I wanted to make a whole TikTok video exposing this salon but realised that maybe it’s ultimately my fault for falling for it but GUESS WHAT? My friend experienced the SAME THING too!! Swipe to the next slide to view our conversation. I am in disbelief!
Has anyone experienced this as well? Are the two ladies at fault for coercing people to pay for their service or is the outcome all on me? Thoughts?
#Lemon8SG #MyLemon8Diary #lemon8diary #SpillTheTea #MyPOV #scam
Reflecting on my experience, I realize many like me don't question 'free offers' enough, especially when paired with friendly approaches and compliments. The pressure tactics these two young women used were intense—they kept me there until I could transfer money, making me feel trapped and helpless. It’s important to know that some offers labeled "free" may come with hidden costs. Always ask for clarifications upfront and don’t hesitate to walk away if anything feels off. I also learned that these occurrences may be widespread—for example, my friend faced the exact same situation, and others have reported similar cases around Bugis+ and Woodlands Point. One useful tip is to research salon memberships or deals online before signing up and to be wary of being rushed into immediate payment. Sharing these encounters can help others avoid falling victim to similar schemes. Stay vigilant and trust your instincts when something doesn’t seem right, even if it’s wrapped in compliments or seemingly friendly service.
omggg i always bump into the one at woodlands & a few years back my mom actually got the card but can't redeem any free services. So now everytime they approach me, i would share with them the whole story and tell them how i can make an actual police report against them because this is actually considered as harassment