The Police have arrested a 20-year-old woman for her suspected involvement in multiple cases of online purchase scams.
Between 14 February 2016 and 17 May 2017, the Police received several reports from victims who were purportedly cheated by an online seller who had offered discounted tickets to Universal Studios Singapore and for Coldplay and Ed Sheeran concerts. After payments were made by the victims, they did not receive any tickets and the suspect became uncontactable.
Officers from Tanglin Police Division conducted extensive investigations and established the identity of the suspect. She was subsequently arrested on 19 May 2017 along Kampong Java Road. Police investigations are ongoing and the suspect is believed to be also involved in more than 10 cases.
Anyone found guilty of Cheating may be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend up to 10 years, and shall also be liable to a fine.
Members of the public are advised to adopt the following measures to avoid falling prey to online purchase scams:
- Make your online purchases only from reputable vendors;
- If advanced payments are necessary, only transact with people you know and trust.
- 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.
- Check that the person or company you are buying from is physically located where they claim to be.
- Never give your bank account numbers, credit card numbers and personal information to anyone you do not know or have not checked out.
- Do not provide any information that is not necessary to make the purchase.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
23 May 2017 @ 9:30 PM