Criminal record warning issued to anyone ordering a takeaway

Customers have been warned that requesting a fake refund is fraud, which could result in a criminal record.

The hospitality payment experts at Dojo have revealed that people are turning to AI to try and get free refunds.

They said: “AI image manipulation represents a new style of fraud attempts.

“Although the recent viral posts may appear humorous, the underlying behaviour and implications of the scam are serious.

@UberEats my food order was delayed for an hour now and your customer service refused to refund my order in uber cash

— I paid them all in dust (@battletested5) December 17, 2025

“Using AI to manipulate images or information to obtain a financial benefit is fraud.

“Even something seemingly small, like lying to get a refund from a takeaway, is legally considered fraud by false representation under the Fraud Act 2006.

“Customers could face being banned from the delivery app, or fines and a criminal record due to fraudulent behaviour.

“That means the moment someone knowingly lies to gain a refund they’re not entitled to, it becomes a criminal offence, even if the amount is small.

“For small and growing businesses operating in the hospitality sector, where margins are tight and competition is high, these fabricated refund claims can have a significant impact on the business’s revenue, and customers should keep this in mind before jumping on what may just seem like a new ‘trend’.”

Tips for businesses to avoid fraudulent refund claims

For businesses, Doja advised the following:

1. Prioritise in-app, trackable communication

Encourage customers to raise issues through formal channels rather than informal messaging.

This ensures that a verified account is tied to the refund claim, the customer’s dispute history is visible, and patterns of suspicious refund behaviour can be detected.

How to avoid scams

2. Implement a clear refund policy and stick to it

A transparent policy reduces disputes and makes it harder for scammers to exploit ambiguity.

Your policy should include: What evidence is required, time limits for refund requests, conditions for partial refunds, and how repeat claims are handled.

1. Don’t be afraid to decline suspicious claims

Fraudsters rely on businesses giving in to their pressure or making an uninformed decision.

Further investigation from the business, making sure claims are looked into, CCTV is checked, and asking the staff who prepared the meal can ensure manipulated claims will not be accepted.