22-Year-Old Arrested in Connection with E-Commerce Scams Targeting Halloween Horror Nights Tickets
In a recent crackdown on e-commerce fraud, the Singapore Police have apprehended a 22-year-old man suspected of orchestrating a series of scams involving the sale of admission tickets to Universal Studios Singapore’s Halloween Horror Nights 12. The arrest took place on October 28, 2024, following a string of reports from victims who fell prey to the fraudulent scheme.
Between October 16 and October 27, 2024, multiple victims reported being deceived by an online seller who advertised the sale of tickets on Carousell, a popular e-commerce platform. After making payments through PayNow or bank transfers, the victims received what they believed to be legitimate admission e-tickets via email. However, upon attempting to enter the theme park, they were met with disappointment as the tickets turned out to be counterfeit. The total financial losses incurred by the victims amounted to approximately $1,000.
Following thorough investigations, officers from the Ang Mo Kio Police Division were able to identify the suspect and subsequently arrest him. Preliminary inquiries suggest that the man may be linked to other similar fraudulent activities, raising concerns about the extent of his involvement in e-commerce scams.
The suspect is scheduled to face charges in court on October 30, 2024, under Section 420 of the Penal Code 1871, which pertains to cheating. If convicted, he could face a significant penalty, including an imprisonment term of up to 10 years and a fine.
In light of this incident, the Police have issued a warning to the public, urging them to exercise caution when making online purchases. They recommend several key precautions to avoid falling victim to scams:
- Be Wary of Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True: If a price appears unusually low, it is likely a scam. Always purchase from authorized sellers or reputable sources, especially for high-value items.
- Utilize Buyer Protection Features: Opt for payment methods that offer buyer protection, ensuring that funds are only released to the seller upon delivery of the item. Avoid making advance payments or direct bank transfers, as these methods typically lack protective measures.
- Beware of Direct Contact Offers: Scammers often entice potential buyers to communicate through messaging platforms like WhatsApp or WeChat, promising better deals if payments are made directly to them. They may also provide a local bank account or show a copy of an NRIC or driver’s license to appear legitimate.
For further information on scams and how to protect oneself, the public is encouraged to visit www.scamshield.gov.sg or contact the ScamShield Helpline at 1799. Anyone with information regarding such scams is urged to reach out to the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit details online at www.police.gov.sg/i-witness.
As the festive season approaches, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and informed to safeguard themselves against potential scams in the e-commerce landscape.