SINGAPORE - The scam victims would respond to an online advertisement offering job placement services, and pay a man a $500 to $1,000 deposit.

But after receiving the deposit, the man would become uncontactable.

A 42-year-old man suspected to be involved in such a series of job scams has been arrested, said the police in a statement on Saturday (Nov 12).

Police said several reports were lodged between August and November by the victims, who are mostly foreigners.

After establishing the identity of the suspect, police officers from Tanglin Division arrested the man at Bedok North St 2 on Thursday (Nov 10).

Investigations are ongoing.

Anyone convicted under the offence of cheating under Section 420, Chapter 22 of the Penal Code could be jailed up to 10 years and fined.

The police advises the public to seek employment services from licensed agents and be suspicious of employers who requirement upfront payment. They should also be wary of job offers that promise high returns for little effort and advertisements of a dubious nature.