Going loco over Four Loko

SCAMMERS taking advantage of young people’s curiosity about the much-hyped Four Loko, a trendy alcoholic beverage, are making a killing via fraudulent online transactions.

According to a report aptly headlined “Lose Virginity Liquor becomes Lose Money Liquor” in Sin Chew Daily yesterday, many young people who placed orders and made payments only realised they were cheated when they did not receive the goods weeks after.

The “sellers” had promised the merchandise would be delivered within three working days.

According to the report, a Facebook page set up early this month to promote the 12%-alcohol beverage has received more than 8,600 likes.

Apart from emphasising that all 12 flavours of the beverage are available, the “sellers” allow customers to have a mix of all the flavours in a single order for a minimum of 12 cans.

A challenge by the “sellers” to potential buyers to stay sober enough to call them after consuming two cans of Four Loko within an hour and win RM8,888 plus one year’s supply of free beverage had apparently pumped up the youngsters to accept the dare.

It is believed the so-called “testimonies” of buyers singing praises for the merchandise they “received” have caused many potential customers to let down their guard. The original Four Loko had drawn controversy over its potent mix of caffeine and alcohol.