A new scam method involving text messages advertising fake jobs has been reported in Singapore recently.
On Thursday (April 8), the Singapore Police Force (SPF) warned the public to be alerted with suspicious job ads that offer attractive hourly-rated salaries. Those who fall for the scams may unknowingly be used as money mules to launder proceeds of criminal conduct, it said in a statement.
SPF advised the public to follow four precautionary measures when they receive such text messages, Straits Times reports.
First, they should not click on the suspicious URL links provided. They are advised to always verify the authenticity of information with official websites or alternative sources.
Second, they should not accept job offers that require the use of personal bank accounts to perform money transfers for others, purchase cryptocurrency on behalf of someone else, or opening of new bank accounts.
See also: Beware of Fake Employment Website, MOM Warns
They must also never send money to strangers or people whom they have not met in person.
Finally, the public is advised not to share bank account login credentials with anyone. Bank account holders are responsible for all transactions made through their personal accounts.
Further, SPF also warned that bank accounts will be frozen if they are used to assist in laundering money from criminal activities, and account holders will be subjected to criminal investigations.
Those who have information related to such crimes, or are unsure whether a message received is a scam, may call SPF’s hotline at 1800-255-0000, or submit it online at the Singapore Police Force’s website.
Read also: S$32 Million Lost to Email Scammers Impersonating Business Partners or Employees: Police
