The Police have observed a spike in the number of scam cases involving fake cash giveaways on social media. Scammers would use social media platforms such as Facebook to advertise on fake cash giveaways. Victims were instructed to share their internet banking details and One-Time Passwords (OTPs) in order to receive the money into their bank accounts. The scammers would subsequently use the information to make unauthorised and fraudulent transactions from the victims’ bank accounts without their consent.
Since December 2019, there were at least 13 reports lodged. The Police have observed that some fake advertisements have now evolved to include references to COVID-19 related pay outs by the government.
During this uncertain period, members of the public are advised to take the following precautions when they receive unsolicited messages and information, especially from unknown parties:
- Beware of unusual requests or offers from strangers and even your social media contacts as they may be spoofed;
- Always verify the authenticity of such messages. Do so by checking with your friends offline, or via official government sources. You can sign up to receive official updates through the Gov.sg WhatsApp platform at go.gov.sg/whatsapp. Alternatively, check with a trusted friend or relative before you act as you may be overwhelmed by emotion and err in your judgment;
- Never give out your personal or bank account details, and One-Time Password (OTP) to anyone, including family and friends.
If you wish to provide any information related to such scams, 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’.
To seek scam-related advice, you may call the anti-scam helpline at 1800-722-6688 or go to www.scamalert.sg. Join the ‘Let’s Fight Scams’ 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 scam victim.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
08 April 2020 @ 5:00 PM