A 30-year-old man has been arrested by Singapore Police for his suspected involvement in a string of online rental scams that left multiple victims out of pocket.
Between April and June 2025, the authorities received several reports from individuals who were allegedly duped after responding to room rental listings found on various online platforms. After making advance payments via bank transfers, victims soon discovered that the supposed landlord had disappeared without a trace.
The case was handled by officers from the Jurong Police Division, who swiftly identified the suspect through thorough investigative efforts. He was apprehended on 23 June 2025.
Over $6,000 Lost to Fake Room Rentals
Preliminary investigations suggest that the man may be linked to at least six similar rental scam cases, with total reported losses exceeding S$6,000. These scams follow a common pattern — the suspect would advertise room rentals online, convince interested parties to transfer money to secure the lease, and then become uncontactable.
The suspect is slated to be charged in court on 25 June 2025 under Section 420 of the Penal Code 1871 for cheating. If found guilty, he faces a prison sentence of up to 10 years along with a possible fine.
Rental scams have been on the rise across Singapore, particularly with the high demand for affordable housing and an increasing number of people seeking short-term stays via online listings. This case serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in renting from unverified sources.
Police Urge Public to Verify Listings and Avoid Advance Payments
The Singapore Police Force has issued a public advisory urging prospective tenants to take necessary precautions when searching for rental units online.
To avoid falling prey to such scams, members of the public are encouraged to:
- Avoid making advance payments until the tenancy is fully confirmed. Use bank transfers or cheques for record-keeping.
- Personally visit the unit to verify its existence and assess its condition.
- Verify the landlord’s identity and ownership of the property, especially if you are not using a licensed property agent.
Stay Informed to Avoid Scams
For those seeking more information on ongoing scams, resources are available at www.scamshield.gov.sg or by calling the ScamShield Helpline at 1799. Members of the public who have information about such fraudulent activities can also contact the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit tips anonymously through the i-Witness portal.