$1.5m lost from scammers impersonating Singtel staff or police

They would tell targets to download an app to solve a network issue or aid in investigations.

Over $1.5m across 21 reported cases since August has been lost due to technical support scammers impersonating Singtel staff or the Singapore Police Force (SPF), according to a media release.

Also read: Singapore ranks fourth in dealing with tech support scams globally

The individuals impersonating Singtel staff were reported to have deceived victims that there were issues with their modem or internet connection, before directing them to download and install apps on their computers to resolve the issue.

Meanwhile, those pretending to represent the police would accuse targets of criminal offense and tell them to download the software for investigations.

The scammers will then request victims to log into their online bank accounts and use the installed app to take their funds.

Victims were told to turn off their computers, change their iBanking credentials, remove any added unauthorised payee, and report the incident to their bank and the police.