In this latest scam, callers impersonate government officers to prey on unsuspecting victims. Can you spot a fraud?
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has warned of a new phone scam in which the caller claims to be an officer from MOM or the government.
Those receiving the call are asked to transfer money to resolve problems relating to either work pass applications or their stay in Singapore. The phone number displayed is 6438 5122 which is the MOM Contact Centre hotline.
“This is a scam. Our officers will not make such calls to ask for fund transfers. We have advised the affected individuals to lodge police reports,” MOM said in a statement.
The Ministry called upon the public to remain vigilant and never transfer money to any such caller.
“MOM will not ask you to make a payment through a telephone call, especially to a third party’s bank account. In such situations, you should ignore the call,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry also warned against giving personal information such as name, ID number, passport details, bank account or credit card details over the phone.
“We take such incidents seriously, as they undermine public trust in MOM,” the Ministry said.
Those who have information relating to this scam should use the police hotline, 1800 255 0000, or call 999 for urgent police assistance, MOM added.
This is the most recent phone scam to occur in Singapore. In May, DHL warned of scammers asking for personal information while in June the Singapore Police Force made a similar announcement.
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Dangerous phishing scam found on fake MOM site
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Mastermind of work permit scam gets 16 months’ jail
Those receiving the call are asked to transfer money to resolve problems relating to either work pass applications or their stay in Singapore. The phone number displayed is 6438 5122 which is the MOM Contact Centre hotline.
“This is a scam. Our officers will not make such calls to ask for fund transfers. We have advised the affected individuals to lodge police reports,” MOM said in a statement.
The Ministry called upon the public to remain vigilant and never transfer money to any such caller.
“MOM will not ask you to make a payment through a telephone call, especially to a third party’s bank account. In such situations, you should ignore the call,” the Ministry said.
The Ministry also warned against giving personal information such as name, ID number, passport details, bank account or credit card details over the phone.
“We take such incidents seriously, as they undermine public trust in MOM,” the Ministry said.
Those who have information relating to this scam should use the police hotline, 1800 255 0000, or call 999 for urgent police assistance, MOM added.
This is the most recent phone scam to occur in Singapore. In May, DHL warned of scammers asking for personal information while in June the Singapore Police Force made a similar announcement.
Related stories:
Dangerous phishing scam found on fake MOM site
Authorities investigate twin job placement scams
Mastermind of work permit scam gets 16 months’ jail