Over $160,000 lost in Facebook Live scams offering lucky draws and gold mine bags
The police have warned the public to be vigilant against a growing number of scams, involving fake lucky draws and e-commerce promotions, conducted through Facebook Live.
At least 30 lucky draw scams and 13 e-commerce scams have been reported since August, with victims losing more than $160,000 in total, said the police in an advisory on Oct 18.
The lucky draw scams saw victims drawn to Facebook livestreams promoting scratch cards that supposedly offered cash prizes. After purchasing these cards, they were told to transfer additional money to 'upgrade' their chances of winning or increase their prize amount. Some were even offered deferred payment options.
When victims were told they had 'won', the scammers demanded more transfers, citing reasons such as administrative fees, before disappearing.
In the e-commerce cons, scammers ran Facebook Live sessions selling mystery bags allegedly containing gold. Victims were encouraged to buy more or pay for 'upgraded' bags said to have higher chances of containing gold. Some were even promised the gold would be repurchased at above-market prices, but only if they sent additional funds.
Victims were typically instructed to make payments via bank transfer, PayNow or DuitNow, often through QR codes provided by the scammers. Many realised they had been duped only after failing to receive their winnings or verifying with the police.
The police urge the public not to transfer money to unverified individuals and to adopt the ACT Against Scams approach:
- Add: Install the ScamShield app, set transaction limits, and use the Money Lock feature.
- Check: Verify suspicious claims with official sources or the ScamShield Helpline (1799).
- Tell: Inform the authorities, friends, and family if you encounter scams. Call your bank immediately and make a police report if you suspect you have fallen victim to a scam.
For more information or assistance, call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 or visit www.scamshield.gov.sg.
