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Beware of E-Commerce Rental Scams: $2.7M Lost in 2024

 


The Singapore Police have highlighted a resurgence of an E-commerce Rental Scam variant, with scammers impersonating property agents registered with the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA). Between January and October 2024, over 430 reports were lodged, with victims losing at least $2.7 million.

Scammers target victims through online platforms such as Facebook and Carousell, posing as property agents. They share falsified credentials, including property agent passes, business cards, and virtual tours, but use contact numbers that differ from those registered with the CEA Public Register. In some cases, accomplices impersonate "colleagues" or "personal assistants" to meet victims during property viewings. Victims are later asked to provide personal particulars and make payments via bank transfers or PayNow, only to lose contact with the scammers afterward.

The Police urge the public to take these safeguards:

  1. Verify agent identities through the CEA Public Register by checking their advertised phone number and credentials.
  2. Meet agents in person and ensure they are legitimate CEA-registered property agents.
  3. Avoid upfront payments to personal accounts or unverified PayNow numbers. Payments should be made directly to landlords via traceable methods.

Additionally, the public is advised to follow the ACT framework:

  • ADD: Download the ScamShield App and enable security features like 2FA.
  • CHECK: Use ScamShield or its helpline (1799) to verify suspicious listings, messages, and contacts.
  • TELL: Share scam information with authorities and report fraudulent listings to platforms like Facebook and Carousell.

For further assistance, call the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or visit www.police.gov.sg/iwitness. In emergencies, dial ‘999’.



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Location: Singapore

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