More than 945 people fall prey to ‘fake friend’ scams since January, losing at least S$3.2 million

 

Conversation between a "fake friend" scammer and victim on WhatsApp. (Images: Singapore Police Force)

SINGAPORE: Police are warning of the re-emergence of "fake friend" scams, with at least 945 victims cheated of more than S$3.2 million since January.

The cases typically involve scammers contacting victims through text messages or phone calls, pretending to be someone they know, and then asking for financial help.

e on Friday (Mar 10).

"In response, victims would provide the name of a friend they believed the caller could be."

The caller would then assume the identity of the said person, claim that he has a new contact number and ask the victim to update his contact details. For instance, he might claim that he has lost his phone.

A few days later, the scammer would contact the victim as his “friend” and ask for a loan, claiming that he is unable to perform a banking transaction or is experiencing financial difficulties. He will then provide the victim with a local bank account to transfer money to.

Victims would only discover that they have been scammed after contacting their actual friends whom the scammers had impersonated, or when their money is not returned as promised.

Precautionary measures

• Add ScamShield App and set security features like two-factor (2FA) or multifactor authentication for banks, social media, Singpass accounts and set transaction limits on Internet banking transactions, including PayNow.
• Check for scam signs with official sources, such as the scam alert website, or call the Anti-Scam Hotline at 1800-722-6688. 
• Verify whether the request is legitimate by checking with your family and friends through alternative means such as physical meet-ups, video calls or email other than using the new contact details on your phone
• Tell authorities, family, and friends about scams. Beware of unusual requests from someone purporting to be someone you know via text messages or phone/WhatsApp calls. Report the number to WhatsApp to initiate in-app blocking.

This article was originally published on CNA. Its inclusion on this website is solely for education purposes.