Investigation Launched into Unauthorized Transactions on Koufu App
SINGAPORE – Koufu, a major food court operator in Singapore, has recently found itself embroiled in a controversy surrounding unauthorized transactions on its app. The company has taken swift action by notifying the police after receiving reports of these “unauthorized transactions.”
The Issue Unveiled
Reports of fraudulent activities related to payments on the Koufu Eat app surfaced in late October on the Google Play Store. Several users claimed that after using the app, unauthorized transactions were made on their credit or debit cards, raising concerns about the security of the platform.
The Revelations
One reviewer posted on Oct 26 that despite attempting to add their card details on the app, none appeared. Subsequently, they received an alert indicating that the card was being added to Google Pay. On Dec 3, another reviewer expressed distress over fraudulent transactions following the addition of their DBS credit card to the app. The unsettling trend continued as a reviewer on Dec 21 encountered obstacles while trying to link their card or PayLah account to the app, ultimately leading to unauthorized transactions on their card.
User Experience Exposed
Celine, a concerned user who preferred to be identified by her first name, shared her unsettling experience with CNA. During a visit to a Koufu food court in Tengah with her husband on Dec 11, they encountered difficulties while attempting to make a payment on the app. Despite repeated attempts to input a One-Time Password (OTP), the transaction failed to go through, leaving them baffled. To their dismay, on Dec 21, Celine’s husband was shocked to discover a €500 (S$709) charge on his card by an unidentified individual with a peculiar name.
Company Policies Clarified
Contrary to concerns about credit card security, Koufu assured customers that the app does not retain their credit card details. Instead, transactions are processed via the eNETS payment gateway, ensuring a secure payment process for users.
Moving Forward
As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders are eager for updates from the Personal Data Protection Commission and the police to shed light on the situation. With the safety and security of users in question, Koufu must address these alarming reports promptly to regain trust and ensure the integrity of its app.