Have you noticed an increase in delivery notifications or messages? You are not alone.
Images: iStock, Circular Connection
Scammers are exploiting this trend through phishing scams disguised as delivery updates, using SMS and email to direct unsuspecting individuals to fake websites.
The Police have highlighted a sharp rise in parcel delivery scams in their recent advisory, particularly during major shopping seasons such as Singles’ Day, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Christmas sales. Since the start of 2024, there have been at least 631 reported cases, resulting in financial losses exceeding $1.1 million. Among these, 505 cases involved scammers impersonating SingPost, leading to losses of about $955,000.
Images: Circular Connection
In these scams, victims typically receive messages about failed deliveries, urging them to click on a link to confirm their address. These links redirect victims to phishing websites where they are asked to enter personal and/or credit card details. Scammers then misuse this information to make unauthorized transactions, which victims only discover upon reviewing their bank statements or noticing suspicious charges.
The Police have emphasized that legitimate SingPost messages use the SMS Sender ID "SingPost." Payments are never processed through online links, and personal or banking details are not requested via SMS. In cases of undelivered items, SingPost issues a physical Non-Delivery Advice for collection at post offices or POPStations.
Tips to Protect Yourself From This Rise in Delivery Scams
Image: Pexels/Jakubzerdzicki
To safeguard against these scams, members of the public are encouraged to adopt the following measures:
ADD: Install the ScamShield app and set up security features such as transaction limits, Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), and Multifactor Authentication for banking and e-wallets.
CHECK: Verify suspicious messages, phone numbers, or website links through the ScamShield app or official sources like the ScamShield website (www.scamshield.gov.sg). Stay informed about SingPost-related scams by visiting their security webpage. Avoid disclosing personal or banking information, including OTPs, to anyone.
TELL: Inform the authorities, family, and friends about scams. Report unauthorized transactions to your bank immediately.
For urgent Police assistance, dial 999. Additional information can be reported to the Police Hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submitted online at www.police.gov.sg/i-witness.
Fighting scams requires collective effort. By staying vigilant and spreading awareness, we can protect ourselves and our communities from falling victim to such schemes. Let us act together against scams!
