Singapore Customs warns public of fraudulent document scam

SINGAPORE: Singapore Customs has issued a warning following the emergence of a new document impersonation scam, cautioning the public against fraudulent activities.

According to a Facebook post published on Thursday (20 June), an individual recently received falsified documents purportedly from Singapore Customs director-general Tan Hung Hooi, complete with the agency’s logo.

These documents falsely demanded monetary payments for the release of goods.

In response to the incident, Singapore Customs emphasized the gravity of such impersonation cases, stressing their detrimental impact on public trust.

“We take a serious view of such impersonation incidents as they undermine public trust in Singapore Customs,” the Facebook post said.

The agency clarified its stance, stating unequivocally that it does not request payments for the release of goods.

It further advised the public that any correspondence bearing the Customs logo instructing payments to third parties is likely fraudulent.

“Singapore Customs does not demand payment for the release of goods. Thus, even if they carry the Customs logo, any letters or documentation you receive with instructions to make payment to other parties are likely to be fake.”

To safeguard against such scams, Singapore Customs urged vigilance among the public.

Individuals were cautioned against complying with suspicious instructions or making payments without first verifying the sender’s authenticity as a government official.

Additionally, the agency advised against opening file attachments in emails or other digital platforms due to potential malicious content.

The agency underscored the importance of protecting personal information, advising against disclosing details such as name, NRIC number, passport details, contact information, or financial particulars to unknown sources.

Instead, individuals were encouraged to verify any correspondence by contacting Singapore Customs directly at [email protected].

For further guidance on safeguarding against Customs-related scams, the public was directed to visit go.gov.sg/scam-advisory.