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The Singapore Police Force (SPF) urges the public to safeguard their SingPass credentials. Scammers have been posting fraudulent job offers online, requesting SingPass details under the guise of job screening. Since January 1, 2024, at least 47 individuals have fallen victim to such schemes, often encountering these offers on platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp.
Victims are instructed to change their SingPass email and phone number, provide their password, and share NRIC screenshots. Scammers then exploit this information to register multiple bank accounts or obtain profile data for illicit purposes.
Despite a nearly 50% rise in scam cases to 50,376 in 2023 from 33,669 in 2022, proactive cybersecurity measures by the Singapore Police Force against scams and cybercrime are yielding positive results and there is good news financially. Despite more cases, the total amount lost decreased slightly by 1.3% to $651.8 million in 2023 from $660.7 million in 2022, marking the first decline in five years and indicating progress in scam prevention efforts.
Additionally, the average amount lost per scam case dropped significantly, from $20,824 in 2022 to $13,999 in 2023, a decrease of about 32.8%. Notably, 55.6% of scam cases reported losses less than or equal to $2,000, suggesting improved resilience against scams among the populace.
This positive trajectory can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of various agencies and stakeholders, including the Singapore Police Force (SPF), the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA), Smart Nation Group (SNG), Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and private sector partners. Their coordinated actions aimed at preventing scams and raising public awareness have contributed significantly to mitigating losses and empowering individuals to protect themselves.
While challenges persist, particularly in scams involving social engineering and deception via social media platforms, individual vigilance remains crucial. By staying informed, exercising caution, and leveraging the resources provided by government agencies and stakeholders, individuals can fortify their defences against evolving cyber threats.
The breakdown of scam types reveals a concerning trend, with job scams, e-commerce scams, fake friend call scams, phishing scams, and investment scams dominating the landscape. However, heightened awareness and concerted efforts are driving progress in scam prevention, offering hope for a safer digital environment for all.
Singapore Police Force has significantly escalated its efforts to counter the rising threat of scams and cybercrime, employing a multifaceted approach encompassing enforcement, engagement, and education. SPF’s strategy relies on strong public-private partnerships, particularly through the Anti-Scam Command (ASCom), collaborating with over 100 institutions like banks, fintech companies, and e-commerce platforms. This facilitates swift freezing of accounts and fund recovery, reducing victim losses. Additionally, SPF conducts targeted enforcement operations against scam tactics, resulting in the termination of thousands of phone lines and the apprehension of fraudsters.
SPF collaborates with foreign law enforcement agencies to dismantle transnational scam syndicates, leading to successful joint operations and arrests of perpetrators. Participation in internationally coordinated operations like INTERPOL’s Operation First Light and Operation HAECHI showcases SPF’s global commitment to combating scams.
Alongside enforcement, SPF proactively prevents scams through initiatives like Project A.S.T.R.O., which sends SMS alerts to potential victims, helping them recognise and avoid scams. Outreach programs target various groups, like migrant workers and the elderly, raising awareness and empowering communities to report scams.
Education is vital in SPF’s anti-scam efforts. The Scam Public Education Office (SPEO) leads public awareness campaigns and shares anti-scam resources. Platforms like the ScamShield app and the Add, Check, Tell framework empower individuals to protect themselves against scams. Additionally, collaborative efforts with content creators and organisations enhance anti-scam messaging, fostering a collective response against scams.
SPF’s holistic strategy underscores its commitment to protecting the community from scams and cybercrime. Through collaborative cybersecurity initiatives, there’s been a decrease in financial losses despite an increase in scams, demonstrating improved resilience and public safety through multifaceted approaches in compliance, caution and awareness.
