Police in Singapore and Hong Kong issue warnings over rising scams

Authorities in Singapore and Hong Kong have issued advisories following recent fraudulent activities. In Singapore, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) reported at least 128 cases of social media impersonation scams since September, resulting in losses of at least S$249,000. These scams often involve perpetrators stealing WhatsApp identities to solicit loans or financial assistance from contacts by posing as friends, family, or colleagues.

In Hong Kong, police arrested a 43-year-old woman and a 77-year-old man in connection with street scams that defrauded victims of approximately HK$900,000. In one instance, a scammer approached a resident claiming to be locked out of her home to solicit cash for a locksmith, later requesting additional funds via online banking and personal identification details.

Both police forces urge the public to remain vigilant, verify requests for money through official channels, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers.