News

How to protect yourself from scams in Singapore

Michelle Alyssa

26.08.26

Read time 2 minutes

Scams remain a concern in Singapore. Fraudsters use fake websites, messaging apps, phishing and impersonation tactics to trick people into sharing sensitive information or sending money.

While scams can look different, many rely on the same tactics: urgency, trust or offers that sound too good to be true.

Knowing the warning signs can help you spot something suspicious before you act.

Common scams in Singapore

Scams can take many forms. Here are some of the most common types to watch out for in Singapore.

Investment scams

Investment scams may promise unusually high or guaranteed returns and pressure you to invest quickly.¹

Be cautious of unexpected investment opportunities, especially if someone asks you to send money to an unfamiliar account.

Job scams

Job scams may offer remote work, high salaries or "easy money" before asking you to pay an upfront fee or transfer your own money.¹

Be cautious of job offers that require you to send money before you can earn.

Government impersonation scams

Scammers may pretend to represent government agencies or public authorities and claim there's an urgent problem involving your identity, taxes or an investigation.²

Never share passwords, PINs or one-time passcodes (OTPs), and don't click suspicious links. If you're unsure, contact the organisation through its official channels.

Bank phishing scams

Fraudulent emails, SMS messages, websites or calls may appear to come from your bank or another financial provider.³ They may ask you to click a link, enter login details or share an OTP.

Don't use links or contact details from a suspicious message. Open the organisation's official app or website instead.

WhatsApp and Telegram scams

Scammers may impersonate friends or family members on WhatsApp or Telegram and ask you to transfer money urgently.

Before sending money, verify their identity another way, such as calling them using a number you already have saved.

How to protect yourself from scams

A few simple precautions can help you recognise suspicious activity and reduce your risk.

Verify before you act

Double-check unexpected requests for money or personal information, especially those made through messaging apps or unexpected calls.

Keep your information private

Never share passwords, PINs, OTPs or authentication codes, including with someone claiming to work for a bank or financial provider.

Use official channels

Access financial services through official apps and websites rather than links or phone numbers in unexpected messages.

Think before you click

Urgency and fear are common scam tactics. Stop and check before clicking a link, sharing information or sending money.

How Wise helps protect you

Wise uses a range of security measures to help protect your account and money.

Transaction monitoring

Wise monitors transactions for signs of suspicious activity and may take additional steps when something doesn't look right.

Identity verification and KYC

Wise uses identity checks, known as Know Your Customer (KYC) and electronic KYC (e-KYC), to verify customers' identities.

In Singapore, Wise can use MyInfo as part of this process, helping customers provide verified personal information digitally.

Transaction notifications

Notifications help you keep track of account activity and spot transactions you don't recognise.

Freeze your Wise card

If your Wise card is lost, stolen or you notice suspicious activity, you can freeze it through the Wise app.

What to do if you suspect a scam

If you think you've been targeted or your account may have been compromised:

Stop communicating with the suspected scammer
Don't click further links or share more information
Freeze your Wise card if your card details may have been compromised
Contact Wise Support if your Wise account may be affected
Report the scam through the appropriate local channels

In Singapore, you can report scam-related information to the Singapore Police Force or use ScamShield for guidance if you're unsure whether something may be a scam.

If you think you may have been targeted or affected, follow Wise's official guidance:

Stay alert and check before you act

Scam tactics continue to change, but simple habits can help reduce your risk.

Verify unexpected requests, keep your information private and use official apps and websites. If something doesn't feel right, stop and check before sending money or sharing information.

Sources

*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.

We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.