The Singapore Police Force (SPF) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) have issued a public advisory regarding ongoing scams involving Chinese messaging and payment platforms such as WeChat, UnionPay, and Alipay. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and aware of these fraudulent schemes.
Since January 2025, there have been at least 678 reported cases, with total losses amounting to approximately S$17.4 million.
Modus Operandi
In these scams, victims typically receive unsolicited calls from local mobile numbers (e.g., "8xxx xxxx" or "+65 xxxx xxxx") impersonating staff from WeChat, UnionPay, or Alipay. Scammers often claim that a subscription (e.g., insurance coverage, WeChat subscription, Alipay subscription) is about to expire.
The scammers then direct victims to continue the conversation on WhatsApp, where they are informed that fees will be automatically deducted from their bank accounts linked to WeChat, UnionPay, or Alipay unless they cancel the subscriptions. To supposedly cancel, victims are asked to verify their identities by providing personal information.
Victims may also be asked to verify their bank accounts by making transfers to a specified account. In some instances, scammers guide victims through these transfers using WhatsApp's screen-sharing function, falsely assuring them that the money will be refunded after successful cancellation.
Tactics Used to Enhance Credibility and Pressure Victims:
- Fake Documents: Scammers send fabricated documents of alleged subscriptions via WhatsApp, containing the victim’s personal information.
- Impersonating MAS Officers: Victims are redirected to a second scammer posing as an MAS officer, who claims their bank accounts are involved in money laundering. They are instructed to transfer funds to assist in investigations. Some victims have even been engaged in video calls with scammers in fake MAS uniforms.
- Fake Court Orders: Victims receive counterfeit court orders or arrest warrants from MAS through WhatsApp, displaying their personal details.
Victims often realize they have been scammed when the scammers become unreachable, or when promised refunds never materialize.
Important Reminders from Singapore Government Officials:
Government officials will never:
- Ask you to transfer money.
- Ask you to disclose banking details.
- Ask you to install mobile apps from unofficial app stores.
- Transfer your call directly to the Police, except when you call 995 for life-threatening emergencies.