In a disturbing case of online deception, a teenage duo in Singapore managed to scam around 15 to 20 victims out of approximately $1,500 collectively., according to The Straits Times.
Pleading guilty on December 20, the now 19-year-old youth faced charges, including cheating, for orchestrating a scam where he and his alleged 17-year-old partner pretended to offer obscene services for cash.
Operating from May to October 2022, the duo exploited Telegram and other online platforms to carry out their deceitful acts.
The Offenses and Guilty Plea
The now-19-year-old youth pleaded guilty to five charges, with one specifically related to the cheating offense. Among his other offenses were driving before the legal age of 18, where he rented cars for various activities such as late-night suppers, meeting friends, and visiting Bukit Brown cemetery.
His 17-year-old alleged partner is expected to plead guilty on December 22. The identities of both individuals remain protected under the Children and Young Persons Act, as some of the crimes were committed when they were below 18.
The Scam Operation
Deputy Public Prosecutor Ronnie Ang outlined that the duo conceived the idea of making “fast cash” in May 2022.
They initiated a scam wherein the girl falsely offered obscene services on Telegram in exchange for money. Utilizing online photos of girls as profile pictures, they adopted pseudonyms like “Gwen,” “Ash,” and “Amanda” on their Telegram accounts.
By joining public chat groups related to hitchhiking and those offering obscene services, they targeted individuals interested in the fake accounts.
Deceptive Tactics
To lend credibility to their scheme, the duo went the extra mile. They sent voice notes featuring the girl’s voice, assuring their targets of her authenticity.
The scammers then arranged meetings with their victims, demanding deposits ranging from $10 to $50 beforehand. Payment was directed to the man’s PayNow account.
Upon the victims’ arrival at the designated meeting spot, the duo claimed discomfort, requested more money, and subsequently cut off communication, blocking the victims.
The scam came to light when a 33-year-old man reported being scammed on October 7, 2022. Falling victim to the faux obscene services offer, he approached the police, triggering an investigation into the deceptive operation.
Legal Consequences and Sentencing
The 19-year-old offender awaits sentencing after a probation report has been called for. His return to court is scheduled for January 31, 2024. The legal proceedings against the 17-year-old accomplice are expected to unfold after her upcoming guilty plea.