The Police have arrested a 19-year-old man for his suspected involvement in several cheating cases.
Since 14 June 2016, Police have received several reports regarding victims being cheated after making online purchases via a mobile marketplace application. The victims transferred money to the unknown seller’s bank account either as deposit or payment for advertised sales of discounted Universal Studios Singapore tickets but they did not receive the tickets thereafter.
Officers from Central Division conducted extensive investigations to establish the identity of the suspect and arrested him along New Bridge Road on 20 June 2016. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is believed to be involved in more than nine cases of similar nature.
Investigations against the suspect are ongoing. Anyone found guilty of Cheating under Section 420 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224, may be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to 10 years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Members of public are advised to adopt the following measures to avoid falling victim to online purchase scams:
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Make your online purchases only from reputable vendors;
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If advanced payments are necessary, only transact with people you know and trust;
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Check that the person or company you are buying from is physically located where they claim to be;
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Check the company or seller’s track record. Make enquiries with the clients and customers about the service they received from the seller;
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Never give your bank account numbers, credit card numbers and personal information to anyone you do not know or have not checked out;
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Do not provide any information that is not necessary to make the purchase; and
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Do be mindful that scammers may use a local bank account for the transaction to enhance their credibility. The owner of the bank account may not be the person communicating with you online.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
20 June 2016 @ 12:20 PM