Callers posing as immigration agents in recent scam

IMPACT – MEDIUM

Scam phone calls appear to be on the rise in Singapore again.

Key Points:

• Both the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) and the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) have previously issued warnings concerning scam calls. Scams have involved phone calls demanding sensitive personal information and money, fake government websites and caller ID spoofing technology.
• Scam callers generally demand sensitive personal information or money under threat of arrest or deportation.
• The government urges people to report suspected scam calls to the anti-scam helpline at 1-800-722-6688 or go to www.scamalert.sg or to the police by calling 1-800-255-0000 or online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.

Information on how to detect and report scam websites, phone calls or emails is available on this Ministry of Manpower website.

Analysis & Comments: Foreign nationals are encouraged to remain vigilant against possible scams, not to turn over personal information if targeted, and to report suspicious calls and emails to authorities.

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