Barbershop faces fraud probe after teen charged 4,000 yuan for haircut

A barbershop in Hangzhou's Yuhang district is under investigation after it charged a 16-year-old 4,000 yuan ($562) for a haircut and perm without clearly listing prices, according to a statement from the local market supervision and regulatory bureau on Sunday.

Following a preliminary investigation, the barbershop is suspected of consumer fraud, and authorities have launched a formal inquiry. The bureau vowed to crack down on any actions that infringe upon consumer rights, in accordance with laws and regulations.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening when the teenager, at a hair salon in Hangzhou, was presented with the bill after receiving the haircut and perm, sparking a dispute that led the teenager to call the police.

Authorities found that the salon had not clearly displayed the prices for the services, and the teenager had not inquired about the cost during the process.

Video footage from the scene shows police officers outside the barbershop investigating and speaking with both the teenager and the salon's representative. One officer can be heard urging the salon to make its prices clear to customers.

The regulatory bureau reminded consumers to remain vigilant, pay attention to posted service prices, and exercise caution when making purchases.