The Police have arrested a 32-year-old woman for her suspected involvement in a series of e-commerce scams.
Between 13 March and 11 April 2022, the Police received multiple reports from victims who were allegedly cheated by an online seller who had advertised the sale of discounted luxury bags. After the victims made payment via bank transfers, the seller allegedly failed to deliver the bags.
Through investigations, officers from Ang Mo Kio Police Division established the identity of the woman and arrested her on 13 April 2022. Preliminary investigations revealed that the woman is allegedly involved in other similar cases.
The woman will be charged in court on 14 April 2022 with cheating under Section 420 of the Penal Code 1871. The offence carries an imprisonment term of up to 10 years and a fine.
The Police would like to advise members of the public to take the following precautions when making online purchases:
If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Purchase only from authorised sellers or reputable sources, especially for high-value items.
Opt for buyer protection by using in-built payment options that release payment to the seller only upon delivery. Whenever possible, avoid making advance payments or direct bank transfers to the seller as this method does not offer any protection.
Scammers may entice buyers to contact them directly through messaging platforms such as WhatsApp or WeChat by offering a better or faster deal if bank transfer payments are made directly to them. They may also use a local bank account or provide a copy of a NRIC/driver’s license to make you believe that they are genuine sellers. Do not fall for it!
For more information on scams, members of the public can visit scamalert.sg or call the Anti-Scam Hotline at 1800-722-6688. Anyone with information on such scams may call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit information online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.
Source: Singapore Police Force