A Judiciary Police (PJ) spokesman said during a special press conference yesterday that eight residents have collectively lost around 150,000 patacas in suspected waterproofing scams, with individual losses ranging between 8,500 patacas and 41,000 patacas.
The cases stem from contracts made via online advertisements for leak-proofing services reported since July. Although the Judiciary Police successfully dismantled a criminal syndicate involved in similar scams between 2024 and 2025, a new wave of incidents has recently emerged, the spokesman underlined.
Scammers are targeting social media platforms, promoting low-cost waterproofing services with claims of quick, “no-chipping” repairs, according to the spokesman.
The fraudsters request photos of the leak via WhatsApp and promise immediate fixes using specialised materials, the cost of which is vastly exaggerated. During the fake repairs, workers manipulate the quantity of materials used before demanding exorbitant fees, ultimately leaving victims with unresolved leaks and no way to recover their funds, according to the spokesman.
The spokesman urged residents to exercise caution with online advertisements and recommended hiring only reputable local firms or consulting qualified engineers for waterproofing services. It is essential to secure written agreements detailing agreed prices and material usage prior to any work taking place, the PJ spokesman said.
Anyone who suspects a scam should refuse unreasonable payment demands and report the incident to the police via the 993 hotline or the Anti-Fraud Enquiry Hotline on 8800 7777.
This image provided by the Judiciary Police (PJ) yesterday shows the waterproofing scammers’ Facebook page.
