The Police have arrested a 22-year-old man for his suspected involvement in a series of cheating cases involving at least $1,400.
Between 6 September 2018 and 15 November 2018, the Police received several reports from victims who responded to online advertisements purportedly selling items such as PS4 gaming consoles and offering puppy for adoption. After payments were made by victims via bank transfers, which range from $50 to $800, the seller became uncontactable.
The man will be charged in court on 30 November 2018 for the offence of cheating, under Section 420 of the Penal Code, Chapter 224. Any person found guilty for the offence 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 public are advised to adopt the following measures to avoid falling victim 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.
- Check that the person or company you are buying from is physically located where they claim to be.
- Check the company or seller’s track record. Make enquiries with the clients and customers about the service they received from the seller.
- 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.
- Do 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.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
29 November 2018 @ 9:25 PM