Warning: Government Official Impersonation Scams on the Rise in Singapore
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) have issued a warning to the public about a recent surge in Government Official Impersonation Scams. In September 2024, at least 100 cases were reported, resulting in total losses of at least $6.7 million.
The scam typically begins with an unsolicited call from a scammer claiming to be a bank officer from a reputable bank such as DBS, OCBC, UOB, or Standard Chartered Bank. The scammer informs the victim that a credit card has been issued in their name or that suspicious transactions have been detected in their bank account. The victim is then asked to confirm these transactions.
If the victim denies knowledge of the transactions, the scammer transfers the call to a second scammer who impersonates a government official from the SPF or MAS. The scammers may use video calls, fake badges, and official backdrops to appear legitimate. They may also provide fake warrant cards or official documents to support their claims.
The scammers accuse the victim of being involved in money laundering and ask them to transfer money to “safety accounts” designated by the government to assist in investigations. Victims only realize they have been scammed when the scammers become uncontactable or when they seek verification of the status of their cases with the banks or SPF.
To protect yourself from these scams, the SPF and MAS recommend the following:
- ADD security features to your mobile devices, online accounts, and bank accounts. Enable International Call Blocking options, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), or Multifactor Authentication, and consider Money Locking your bank accounts.
- CHECK for scam signs with official sources such as the ScamShield helpline (1799) or the ScamShield app. Verify the legitimacy of suspicious messages, phone numbers, and website links.
- TELL the authorities, family, and friends if you encounter scams. Report and block suspected scam accounts and chat groups. If you suspect you have fallen victim to a scam, call your bank immediately to report and block any fraudulent transactions, and make a police report.
If you have any information relating to these crimes or are in doubt, please call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit a report online at www.police.gov.sg/i-witness. All information will be kept strictly confidential. If you require urgent Police assistance, please dial ‘999’.
For more information on scams, visit www.scamshield.gov.sg or call the ScamShield Helpline at 1799. By working together, we can ACT Against Scams and safeguard our community.