Imagine finding out your kid blew over $700 at a massage parlor—and not just for a regular rubdown. That’s exactly what happened to a 16-year-old boy in Singapore’s Boon Keng neighborhood, whose parents discovered he’d been lured into spending big bucks on “special” services at a local massage parlor. The story is wild, a little scary, and definitely a wake-up call about what goes on behind the scenes at some massage parlors—and the legal gray areas surrounding them.
How did this happen?
The whole thing started when the boy, just 16 and still figuring out life, got a random friend request on WeChat from a woman claiming to be a masseuse at a nearby massage parlor. After chatting, the conversation quickly turned sexual, with the woman offering “services that would make him happy”—a” clear hint at something beyond a simple massage.
Being young and curious, the boy couldn’t resist and visited the parlor. What started as one visit turned into multiple trips, with the boy reportedly receiving “special” services each time. He blew through his entire monthly allowance of about $350 (S$500) and then some, even dipping into his personal savings and gifts, racking up over $700 (S$1,000) in total.
His parents found out what was going on when the boy asked them for more pocket money, his father, Mr. Chen, said.
Confused, they questioned him and found out he had spent all his pocket money. When he refused to reveal where it had gone, they checked his phone — and were horrified to find explicit conversations between him and the woman.
What are “special” services at massage Parlors?
So, what exactly are these “special” services? While many massage parlors offer legitimate therapeutic massages, some establishments operate in a legal gray zone by providing sexual services under the guise of massage therapy. This can include anything from inappropriate touching to full-on sexual acts.
In many countries, including Singapore, offering sexual services at massage parlors is illegal. Yet, some parlors discreetly advertise these “extras” to attract customers. The problem is that minors like this boy can get caught up in it, often without fully understanding the consequences or risks.
The legal side: When massage parlours cross the line
Massage parlors that offer sexual services are breaking the law in many places. In Singapore, for example, authorities have fined and shut down parlors caught offering such illegal services. Business owners can face hefty fines, and employees involved can be prosecuted.
What makes this case especially troubling is that the boy was underage. Targeting or even knowingly serving minors with sexual services is a serious offense and can lead to criminal charges against the parlor and its staff. The boy’s father filed a police report, emphasizing that while his son made mistakes, the business should not be allowed to prey on teenagers.
Why this matters to Gen Z and parents
This story is a reminder that not all massage parlors are what they seem-and that social media and messaging apps can be used to lure young people into risky situations. For Gen Z, who live online and often trust digital connections, it’s a warning to stay cautious about who you chat with and what offers you accept.
For parents, it highlights the importance of open conversations about boundaries, money, and online safety. It also shows how easy it is for teens to get into trouble without fully realizing it.
Final thoughts: Stay safe, stay smart
If you’re thinking a massage parlor is just a chill place to relax, think again; some places might be hiding illegal activities behind the scenes. Always be cautious about offers that sound too good to be true, especially if they come from strangers online.
And if you’re a parent, keep an eye on your kids’ online interactions and spending habits. It might save you from a shock like Mr. Chen and his family experienced.
