Online scams in Singapore are soaring, with a record S$1.1 billion lost across over 50,000 cases in 2024, up 70% from the year before. Scammers are even impersonating government agencies like MOM, with victims losing over S$379,000 since May alone. Don’t let them catch you off guard. Read on for 5 easy ways to protect your self online.
Online scams, also known as Internet fraud, is a type of cybercrime designed to trick unsuspecting victims through the Internet for financial gains. There are many scenarios and scammers are getting more creative.
#5 Internet love scams
We’ve heard of the dangers of online dating, and it goes beyond a broken heart. Social networking sites allow you to meet new friends around the globe. For some, it is a channel to seek love. For others, it’s a channel to look for victims.
Internet love scammers create online profiles that make them more appealing to those who are emotionally vulnerable, and develop relationships with their targets. After a while, they would make up a story and ask for money as proof of love, but they’d disappear once the money is transferred!
Internet love scams in Singapore have surged in recent years. According to the Singapore Police Force, at least 384 victims have fallen prey since January 2022, losing more than S$15 million. Our advice? NEVER send money or gifts to someone you haven’t met in person.
#4 Social media impersonation scams
Social media impersonation scams continue to cause major losses in Singapore. In early 2024, over 200 individuals were investigated for suspected involvement in scams that collectively caused more than S$5.84 million in losses. Scammers often pose as trusted contacts on WhatsApp or Facebook to trick victims into revealing personal details and OTPs.
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#3 Credit-for-sex scams
Credit-for-sex scams have been on the rise in Singapore. In 2022, at least 209 victims have fallen prey, resulting in losses exceeding S$402,000—including gift cards and digital credits purchased under false pretenses. Scammers target victims via dating apps and social platforms, posing as romantic partners and demanding upfront payments.
Our advice? Be wary of friend requests or online listings offering escort, massage, or sexual services as they may be fraudulent in nature.
#2 Loan scams
With the economy hit hard by COVID-19, financial desperation has made loan scams increasingly common in Singapore. Since April 25, the Singapore Police Force have recorded 187 fake-friend or loan-impersonation scams, with victims collectively losing at least S$653,000.
Got a random WhatsApp message offering you a fast loan? Ignore it, it’s likely a scam. Scammers lure victims with fake loan offers that seem too good to be true on messaging apps. But here’s what many don’t realise: it’s illegal for licensed moneylenders in Singapore to advertise via SMS or WhatsApp.
Once contact is made, these fraudsters may ask for sensitive personal information such as your NRIC number, Singpass login, or bank account details. This data is often misused to harass, threaten, or extort payments from unsuspecting victims.
What to do if you receive such messages? Do not reply, no matter how legit it sounds. You should also check the official Registry of Moneylenders via MinLaw’s website before engaging any loan provider.
#1 E-commerce scams
E-commerce scams remain a major threat in Singapore. Based on the Singapore Police Force 2024 Mid-Year Crime Statistics Report, there were over 7,250 reported cases in the first half of 2024, resulting in losses of at least S$8.6 million. These scams often involve fake listings on platforms like Facebook, Carousell, and Telegram.
Scammers typically offer concert tickets, electronics, or rental services at attractive prices. Victims are tricked into paying upfront but never receive the promised items.
Our advice? Always use a trusted shopping platform or transact ONLY with people you trust. Be mindful of the appearance of the website that you’re on to avoid phishing websites (it may look real to trick you into disclosing your account information).
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Fell prey to an online scam in Singapore? Here’s what you can do
If you suspect you’re being scammed, don’t feel ashamed. Act quickly and confidently. Here’s what you should do:
- Stop all communication with the scammer immediately.
- Verify your concerns by calling the 1800-722-6688 hotline, managed by the National Crime Prevention Council (weekdays, 9am – 5pm).
- Visit ScamShield to stay updated on the latest scam advisories, trends, and access a live chat option for real-time consultations.
- Inform your bank right away and file a police report through the Singapore Police Force (SPF) website or at the nearest police station.
- For e-commerce scams, report the incident to the online marketplace platform and file a complaint with the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE).
- If you have Personal Cyber Insurance from Etiqa Insurance, you can file a claim with the necessary supporting documents.
With remote working and online interactions now common, scams in Singapore continue to rise. Staying safe online is easier than you think. From simple cybersecurity measures such as switching off your location services to being mindful of befriending strangers online, you can do your part to keep you and your household safer from online threats.
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Information is accurate as at 18 June 2020. This policy is underwritten by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Company Reg. No. 201331905K).
This article was updated on 11 June 2025.
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