Looking to buy CNY goods? Beware of phishing and malware scams, police warn
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Scammers could pose as sellers and advertise festive goods on online platforms, such as Facebook, or appear in group buys on messaging apps.
PHOTO: ST FILE
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SINGAPORE - Singaporeans looking to buy festive goods online are urged to guard against phishing and malware scams, as Chinese New Year draws near.
In an advisory on Jan 24, the police said scammers could pose as sellers and advertise festive goods on online platforms such as Facebook, or appear in group buys on messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram.
These fraudsters may attempt to steal sensitive information, including credit card details and banking credentials, through phishing links.
The public could also be tricked into downloading malicious apps as part of the payment process.
Once installed, these apps can remotely access devices and carry out unauthorised transactions, the police warned.
Ahead of Chinese New Year starting on Jan 29, the police have urged the public to adopt some precautionary measures, including downloading the ScamShield app to block scam calls and SMSes, checking for scam signs against official sources, and reporting suspected scam accounts to the authorities.
“Do not click on any links or download any unknown applications into your device. Be wary of sellers who ask you to do so and disengage immediately,” said the police.
Scam cases reached an all-time high in the first half of 2024,
Anyone with information related to such crimes or who is uncertain about a phone call or message can report it online at www.police.gov.sg/i-witness
Those who need further information on scams can visit www.scamshield.gov.sg
Vihanya Rakshika is a correspondent at The Straits Times, covering breaking news and current affairs.
