SINGAPORE – Imagine your phone ringing, and on the other end, a voice introduces themselves as an officer from a foreign law enforcement agency. They claim to be conducting an investigation and urgently need your assistance.
Before you dive into the conversation, take a moment to pause. This could be an impersonation scam, a tactic increasingly used by fraudsters to exploit unsuspecting individuals.
The Singapore police issued a warning on March 13, clarifying that foreign law enforcement agencies lack the jurisdiction to carry out investigations within Singapore. They cannot compel anyone here to assist them in their inquiries.
Such scams prey on fear and urgency, manipulating emotions to extract personal information or money. Remember, legitimate authorities will never ask for sensitive details or financial assistance over the phone.
If you receive such a call, it’s crucial to remain vigilant. Hang up and report the incident to the local authorities immediately. Protect yourself and your information; awareness is your best defence against these deceptive tactics.
In a recent announcement, officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ Cybersecurity and ICT Governance Directorate (CIGD) made it clear that their officers will never initiate phone calls to members of the public as part of their official duties. This statement comes in response to a troubling rise in scams where fraudsters impersonate CIGD personnel.
In March 2025, at least one reported case led to a loss of over $5,000, highlighting the seriousness of this issue. Victims of this particular scam received calls from individuals posing as CIGD officers, using local mobile numbers that intriguingly lacked the familiar +65 prefix.
During these deceptive conversations, victims were alarmingly informed that their personal information had been linked to criminal activities in Malaysia. The situation escalated as the call was often transferred to a second scammer, who would claim to represent Malaysian law enforcement agencies, such as the Malaysian Interpol or the Criminal Investigation Department.
The intricate nature of this scam showcases the cunning tactics employed by con artists and underscores the importance of public awareness. Authorities urge citizens to remain vigilant and sceptical of unsolicited calls, emphasising that legitimate officials will always communicate through official channels.
In a world increasingly dominated by technology, the threat of scammers lurks in every digital corner. These deceitful individuals craft elaborate schemes, aiming to extract sensitive personal information from unsuspecting victims. They may seek bank account details, personal identification, or even critical access codes like Singpass passwords and one-time passwords.
Often, they will concoct stories that create a sense of urgency, urging victims to transfer money to a designated bank account under the guise of “assisting with investigations.” This tactic preys on fear and confusion, making it difficult for individuals to think clearly.
The public must remain vigilant. Never transfer money or disclose personal information to strangers, no matter how convincing their claims may seem. If you find yourself uncertain about a request or communication, trust your instincts and seek help.
For guidance and clarification, call the Scamshield helpline at 1799. For further insights into recognising and avoiding scams, visit www.scamshield.gov.sg. Remember, staying informed is your best defence against these malicious schemes.
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