“维修刺客”为何屡屡得逞？

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the alarming rise of fraudulent practices in the home repair industry, particularly focusing on a case involving extortion by repair workers in Shanghai, which has raised concerns about consumer protection and regulatory oversight [1][4]. Group 1: Case Details - A repair worker named Xue and his son were convicted of extortion after charging exorbitant prices for repairs, with costs for materials marked up from 1.2 yuan per pound to 150 yuan per pound [1][4]. - Consumers like Mr. Wang and Ms. Dai experienced aggressive tactics from repair workers, including threats and intimidation, leading them to pay inflated fees for unsatisfactory services [2][3]. - The police investigation revealed that Xue and his associates had defrauded multiple customers between 2021 and 2023, collecting fees ranging from 50,000 to over 70,000 yuan [4]. Group 2: Consumer Vulnerability - The article discusses the vulnerability of consumers, particularly young adults, single women, and the elderly, who are often coerced into paying high fees due to fear and intimidation [1][2]. - Many consumers choose to pay rather than confront aggressive repair workers, leading to a cycle of exploitation [5][6]. - The lack of accountability among small repair businesses, which often operate without fixed locations or proper registration, complicates regulatory efforts [6]. Group 3: Regulatory Challenges - The article points out that small repair businesses frequently evade regulation, making it difficult for authorities to track and penalize fraudulent activities [6][8]. - Administrative mediation processes are often ineffective due to the lack of enforceability, leaving consumers with limited options for recourse [6][8]. - The need for improved regulatory frameworks and consumer protection mechanisms is emphasized, with suggestions for better coordination among law enforcement and market supervision agencies [7][8]. Group 4: Importance of Consumer Cooperation - The article stresses the importance of consumer cooperation in reporting fraudulent activities to law enforcement, as evidenced by the successful prosecution of Xue and his associates [10]. - Consumers are encouraged to document evidence of fraud, such as receipts and communication records, to support their claims [8][10]. - The involvement of public authorities is crucial in addressing consumer grievances and preventing further exploitation in the home repair sector [9][10].