Singapore Ministry of Manpower reveals crafty scam tactic: Impersonation of officials in video calls

SINGAPORE: In a relentless display of scamming innovation, the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has exposed a disturbing new tactic employed by fraudster.

MOM has taken to Facebook to reveal a troubling incident where scammers impersonated ministry officers during a video call, similar to previous incidents where they mimicked officers from the Singapore Police Force.

“Recently, we were alerted to a scam video call,” they said.

“The person in the call wore a mask, held a fake MOM card, and asked for the receiver’s personal identification,” they added, explaining the scammers’ tactic.

A photograph of an alleged scammer was shared, depicting a man sporting both a hat and a mask, concealing a significant portion of his face.

Interestingly, the image on the man’s MOM card also features him wearing both a hat and a mask.

Moreover, the backdrop prominently displayed the name and logo of MOM, possibly in an attempt to further persuade their target of their supposed authenticity.

MOM urged individuals to promptly file a police report if they encounter such calls.

Ways of identifying scams

On their official website, MOM had listed some of the best practices and tips on how to identify and report fake “MOM” websites, phone and email scams.

Scams could be in the form of unexpected phone calls or emails claiming to be from MOM, and they may also ask for money, sensitive or confidential personal information.

Therefore, be wary when receiving phone calls from:

• An overseas number. MOM does not make calls from overseas.
• Instant Messaging apps. The profile photo of such fake accounts may show a picture of the Ministry of Manpower’s logo or MOM officer.
• A spoofed ‘+’ number, even if it’s ‘+65’ it does not mean it’s from Singapore.

Additionally, understanding how to identify these signs can also aid to prevent being a victim:

• The caller or sender is unable to identify themselves properly.
• You are not expecting an SMS, call or email from MOM.
• You are not aware of the transaction or interaction which is being referenced during the correspondence or conversation.

For more tips on how to identify and report fake websites, phone calls and emails: www.mom.gov.sg/transact-safely-and-securely