Between October and November 2017, the Police have received at least 20 reports where victims were cheated into providing their personal information and credit card details on phishing websites after responding to emails that were purportedly sent by Apple or iTunes. The victims later realised that unauthorised transactions in various foreign currencies were made to their credit cards.
In these cases, the victims first received an email informing them that their Apple or iTunes accounts were placed on hold and they will not be able to log in to their accounts. They were advised to click on the link provided in the email and to follow the instructions to verify their accounts. Victims were then directed to a website resembling a genuine Apple website. They were asked to enter their personal information and bank account details, such as their credit card number and Card Verification Value. The victims then received a One-Time Password (OTP) on their mobile phones which they were prompted to key into the website. Subsequently, the victims received SMS notifications of foreign transactions made on their credit cards.
The Police would like to advise members of public to adopt the following preventive measures:
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Be wary when you are asked to disclose your personal information and bank account details over the internet;
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Beware of phishing websites that may look genuine. Look for signs that you are using a legitimate or secure website. These websites are generally encrypted to protect your details. Secure websites use 'https:' instead of 'http:' at the start of the internet address, or display a closed padlock or unbroken key icon at the bottom right corner of your browser window; and
- Report any fraudulent charges detected in your credit card bills to your bank immediately.
You can seek scam-related advice by calling the anti-scam helpline at 1800-722-6688 or go to www.scamalert.sg. Help spread the word and share this advisory with your family and friends to prevent them from being the next victim of scam.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
29 November 2017 @ 8:10 PM