‘Deliberate manipulation of machines or fraudulent refund claims is taken seriously’ — BCRS operator warns after man’s alleged misuse of Return Right machine

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) operator has warned against attempts to cheat its refund system after videos surfaced online showing alleged misuse of Return Right machines.

The footage showed an individual allegedly scanning an eligible container bearing the 10-cent deposit mark before inserting containers that didn't qualify for refunds.

In a Facebook post on Nov 13, BCRS Ltd said it was aware of the videos and took fraudulent refund claims seriously. BCRS Ltd said it had since worked with its Return Network Operators to adjust the machines and address the problem.

CCTV and digital records help detect fraud

The operator said it would continue improving safeguards across its return network to protect the system. Its existing measures include digital transaction logs, 24-hour CCTV surveillance, and fraud-detection technology installed across all Return Right machines.

BCRS Ltd also monitors transaction data regularly to identify unusual patterns. It said refund claims were validated and transaction records reconciled to guard against fraud, in line with its operating licence.

Any suspected fraudulent behaviour would be referred to the relevant authorities for investigation and appropriate action.

Protecting trust in Singapore’s 10-cent deposit scheme

The scheme took effect on Oct 1, covering regulated pre-packaged beverages sold in Singapore in plastic or metal containers ranging from 150ml to three litres.

Each eligible container carries a 10-cent deposit, which consumers can reclaim by returning empty containers through Return Right machines.

The refund may be small, but the system depends on people following the same rules. Those who return genuine containers should receive their money without others exploiting the process. Strong checks and fair enforcement will help keep public trust in the scheme.

Read related: ‘Cheating? Is this legal?’ — Man repeatedly scans barcode of same beverage can at BCRS machine, sparking debate over earning refunds on multiple cans in SG