BCRS reverse vending machine fraud investigation Singapore, Digi Mart USA News (Singapore): The operator of the Beverage Container Return Scheme (BCRS) said on Nov 13 that it takes fraud and the deliberate manipulation of reverse vending machines seriously, after a man was filmed returning multiple ineligible containers by scanning a single eligible can.
BCRS Ltd told The Straits Times that it is aware of online videos showing the man depositing ineligible containers into a reverse vending machine after scanning an eligible can bearing the 10-cent deposit mark. Asked whether it is investigating the incident, the operator said: “We are unable to comment further on the specifics of the case.”
The operator said all reverse vending machines are equipped with digital transaction logs, 24-hour CCTV surveillance and fraud-detection technology. It also said it regularly monitors data across its return network to detect anomalous transaction patterns, and that any fraudulent behaviour would be referred to the relevant authorities for investigation and appropriate action.
Since around Nov 10, the video has circulated on several social media platforms, including Facebook and TikTok. It shows the man repeatedly scanning the barcode of a single can while throwing in other containers, including a crushed can, from a large trash bag.
BCRS Ltd said deliberate manipulation of the machines or fraudulent claims are taken seriously, as they undermine the trust of members of the public who are genuinely trying to recycle and return containers correctly. It said it has worked with its return network operators to calibrate the Return Right machines to address the issue and will continue strengthening safeguards.
The operator did not give details on how the machines were calibrated.
Under the scheme, customers pay an extra 10 cents for each drink and receive the money back via EZ-Link or DBS PayLah! when they deposit used drink containers into a reverse vending machine.
There are around 1,300 such machines islandwide. Only cans and bottles marked with the “10-cent SG Return” logo can be deposited into the machines.
The scheme has been fully operational since Oct 1, with retailers allowed to sell only labelled drinks.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) told The Straits Times that it takes a serious view of any deliberate misuse of the machines. It said it has reminded BCRS Ltd to take appropriate measures to safeguard the integrity of the scheme and address any deliberate misuse of the Return Right machines.
NEA said it will continue to work with BCRS Ltd to review the system and strengthen safeguards where necessary, and urged the public to use the machines responsibly.
BCRS Ltd said its priority is to ensure the system functions reliably and fairly for everyone, including by validating refund claims and reconciling transaction records to guard against fraud, in accordance with its operating licence. It urged members of the public to report suspected misuse of Return Right machines directly to BCRS Ltd.
