Actor So Ji Sub and his agency, 51k, have become targets of a “no-show” scam, prompting a public warning from the company. An individual has been impersonating a manager from 51k to make fraudulent restaurant reservations, claiming they are for company dinners involving the actor.
The impersonator has been reserving tables for large groups and also asking for expensive alcoholic drinks to be bought in advance. After these arrangements are made, the scammer does not show up and stops all communication, leaving the restaurants with unpaid bills. This kind of fraud is part of a growing problem known as “no-show” scams.
51k made it clear that the agency never uses the names of its actors to book restaurants. The agency also stated that it never asks for alcohol or any other goods to be purchased or delivered under any circumstances. 51k mentioned that it is taking this issue very seriously and will take strong legal action against anyone involved in impersonation or fraud.
Unfortunately, So Ji Sub is not the only celebrity to be affected by these scams. Other well-known figures such as Lim Young Woong, Song Ga In, Ha Jung Woo, and Byeon Woo Seok have also faced similar situations where their names were used in fraudulent activities.
These types of scams are becoming more common. The Korean National Police Agency shared on May 20 that impersonation scams involving celebrities, people in the entertainment industry, local government officials, and assistants to National Assembly members are increasing. The Phishing Crime Investigation Unit at the Gangwon Provincial Police Agency is currently looking into these cases.
VARO Entertainment, the agency for Byeon Woo Seok, has also taken legal action regarding a manager impersonation scam that involved their actor. This shows a wider pattern of such fraudulent acts targeting public figures.
The ongoing investigation by the Gangwon Provincial Police Agency highlights the seriousness of these scams and the efforts being made by law enforcement to address them. This situation emphasizes the need for businesses and individuals to be careful and verify identities when dealing with bookings or requests that seem unusual.
The Korean National Police Agency‘s public announcement about the rise in these scams serves as an important alert for both the public and those working in various professional fields to be aware of such deceptive practices. This rise in incidents suggests a targeted approach by scammers towards individuals and organizations that have public recognition.
Agencies like 51k are actively working to protect their artists and the public from these fraudulent activities. Their quick action in issuing a public warning helps to inform and protect businesses that might otherwise fall victim to these scams. The commitment to legal action also shows a strong stance against such illegal acts.
The current situation involving So Ji Sub and other celebrities underscores the importance of verifying information and exercising caution, especially when dealing with requests that involve advance purchases or unusual booking arrangements. The focus remains on stopping these scams and protecting those who have been targeted.
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