The Singapore Police Force has urged citizens to exercise caution amid a new scam involving NTUC FairPrice. As per SPF, since August 2024, at least 12 cases were reported, with total losses amounting to at least SGD 9,000.
Detailing the scam
In this scam variant, victims encountered advertisements or posts on social media (e.g. Facebook) featuring various heavily discounted goods allegedly offered by NTUC FairPrice, the SPF said in an official news release.
Enticed by the attractive promotions, victims would click on the URL links in the advertisements or posts and were then redirected to phishing websites. These phishing websites prompted victims to key in their shipping address, bank card details and/or One-Time Passwords (OTPs) for the purchase of the purported goods during checkout.
The SPF said that the victims would only realise that they had been scammed when they discovered unauthorised transactions, that were different from their intended purchases, being charged to their credit or debit cards.
In some cases, the transactions were also made in foreign currencies, the statement noted.
Steps to avoid the scam
- ADD – Add the ScamShield app and set security features (e.g. set up transaction limits for internet banking transactions, enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), Multifactor Authentication for banks and e-wallets). Do not send money to anyone you do not know or have not met in person before. Do not disclose your bank/card details and One-Time Passwords (OTPs) to anyone.
- CHECK – Check for scam signs with official sources (e.g. call the Anti-Scam Helpline on 1800-722-6688 or visit www.scamalert.sg), or with someone you trust. Look out for tell-tale signs of a phishing website. Do not click on dubious URL links provided in social media advertisements or posts. Be cautious of attractive deals that seem too good to be true. If in doubt, always verify the authenticity of information provided with the company or e-commerce platform directly.
- TELL – Tell the authorities, family, and friends about scams. Report any fraudulent transactions to your bank immediately and report any suspicious advertisements to the company or e-commerce platform.
