The Police have observed an increase in non-banking related phishing scams involving emails and text messages. In the first two weeks of November 2021, at least 378 victims had fallen prey to such scams.
Victims would receive emails or text messages from scammers impersonating entities that are known or trusted, such as banks, government agencies, trade unions, or companies such as SingPost or Grab. These emails and text messages would make fake offers or claims to trick recipients into clicking on a phishing URL link. These fake offers or claims include outstanding payment for parcel delivery, disruptions to services or subscriptions, refunds, or promotions. Upon clicking on the phishing URL links, victims would be redirected to fraudulent websites where they would be tricked into providing their credit/debit card details and One-Time Password (OTP). Victims would only realise that they have been scammed when they discovered unauthorised transactions made using their credit/debit card.
Members of the public are advised to follow these crime prevention measures:
- Do not click on URL links provided in unsolicited emails and text messages;
- Always verify the authenticity of the information with the official website or sources;
- Never disclose your personal or Internet banking details or OTP to anyone; and
- Report any fraudulent credit/debit card charges to your bank and cancel your card immediately.
If you have any information relating to such crimes, please call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000, or submit it online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness. If you require urgent Police assistance, please dial ‘999’.
For more information on scams, members of the public can visit www.scamalert.sg or call the Anti-Scam Hotline at 1800-722-6688. Join the ‘Spot the Signs. Stop the Crimes’ campaign at www.scamalert.sg/fight by signing up as an advocate to receive up-to-date messages and share them with your family and friends. Together, we can help stop scams and prevent our loved ones from becoming the next victim.
Annex A
Images of Scam Emails and Text Messages
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
18 November 2021 @ 12:30 PM