A Japanese subscription-based service known as "Scare-for-Hire", which lent out intimidating people to various customers, is closing down. Customers used the service for varied reasons, from wanting to deter stalkers to simply wishing to enhance their image, by hiring a "bad boy" to accompany them. The company announced its termination through an official statement, offering no specific reason for shutting down.

Peculiar and human-oriented services, like the "Scare-for-Hire" are not uncommon in Japan, a country known for its unique, customer-service culture. The service may have been used to alleviate personal issues otherwise unaddressed in society, such as bullying or intimidation from others. Reactions to the closure are mixed with some expressing disappointment, while others see it as unnecessary in a polite society like Japan.

While unique services do exist in the US/EU, a "Scare-for-Hire" type service likely wouldn't operate due to legal and ethical issues. In these regions, laws regarding personal safety, privacy, and related issues are stringent and a service like this could fall afoul of them.