As Singapore embraces the return of large-scale physical events and concerts, the Police would like to remind the public to be discerning online shoppers, especially when purchasing tickets for events or concerts from online third-party resellers.
Members of public are advised to remain vigilant, as scammers may take this opportunity to target online shoppers by enticing them with cheap event tickets, concert ticket deals or sold-out tickets at inflated prices. Scammers may claim that the ticket sales are time-sensitive and/or with limited stocks, to convince victims into making upfront payment for the tickets. Victims might only discover that they have been scammed when they do not receive the tickets after making payment, or when they discover that the tickets are invalid on the concert or event day.
Members of the public are also advised to adopt the following crime prevention measures:
- Purchase only from authorised sellers or reputable sources. Buying cheap tickets from resellers is risky - If the price is too good to be true, it probably is.
- When purchasing tickets online, use “escrow” payment options that protect buyers by releasing payment to the seller only upon delivery, where possible. Avoid making advance payments or direct bank transfers to the seller as this method does not offer any protection to buyers.
- Verify the seller’s profile on online marketplaces through customer reviews and ratings.
For more information on scams, members of the public can visit www.scamalert.sg or call the Anti-Scam Hotline at 1800-722-6688.
Anyone with information on such scams may call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit information online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness. All information will be kept strictly confidential.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
04 May 2022 @ 9:00 PM