Singapore

What to Do if You Are a Victim of Romance Fraud in Singapore

1. Report the Incident to the Authorities

Singapore Police Force (SPF):

  • File a report online or in person.
  • Online reporting portal: www.police.gov.sg/iwitness
  • Visit the nearest Neighbourhood Police Centre (NPC) or Neighbourhood Police Post (NPP).
  • For urgent assistance, dial 999.

Anti-Scam Centre (ASC):

  • Managed by the SPF, the ASC works closely with financial institutions to respond to scam-related reports.
  • Call the Anti-Scam Helpline at 1800-722-6688 for advice on what to do next.

2. Contact Your Bank Immediately

If you have made any transfers or shared financial details:

  • Contact your bank’s fraud or customer support line as soon as possible.
  • Request to block or freeze any suspicious transactions or accounts.
  • Ask the bank to initiate a “fraudulent transaction recall” where possible.
  • Provide details of the scam, including account numbers, dates, and communication records.

Most major banks in Singapore have dedicated fraud hotlines:

  • DBS/POSB: 1800-339-6963
  • OCBC: 1800-363-3333
  • UOB: 1800-222-2121

Keep records of all communication with your bank for future reference.

3. Report to ScamShield and the National Anti-Scam Platform

ScamShield:

  • Developed by the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) and Open Government Products.
  • Blocks known scam calls and SMS messages.
  • You can report scams through the ScamShield app or website: www.scamshield.org.sg

National Anti-Scam Centre Platform (Scam Alert SG):

  • Submit scam reports via www.scamalert.sg
  • Offers advice and educational resources to identify and avoid scams.

4. Seek Emotional and Psychological Support

Romance fraud causes deep emotional harm beyond the financial loss. It’s important to reach out for mental health and emotional support:

Samaritans of Singapore (SOS):

  • Emotional support for individuals in crisis.
  • 24-hour Hotline: 1767
  • Website: www.sos.org.sg

Silver Ribbon (Singapore):

Care Corner Counselling Centre:

5. Preserve All Evidence

Do not delete conversations, emails, screenshots, or transaction receipts. These can be important for police investigations and any potential financial claim or court process.

Final Notes

  • Romance fraud is a crime, not a mistake by the victim. It is rooted in emotional and psychological manipulation.
  • If you’re unsure where to start, contact the Anti-Scam Helpline (1800-722-6688) and they will guide you.
  • You are not alone, and there are support systems in place in Singapore to help you recover.

By reporting the incident to these organisations, you contribute to broader efforts against cybercrime and can access support services to address the impact of the fraud.

Key notes

  • Contact your bank as a priority
  • Report to law enforcement or cyber helplines
  • Get safe from further fraud

Re-victimisation is high with this fraud. Please get safe.

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Remember, you’re not alone, and support is available to help you through this difficult time.