Police warns citizens on Carousell phishing scams in Singapore
Singapore. On May 6, the police warned Singaporeans about a phishing variant where scammers pose as Carousell buyers and then send out fake links for the victims. Since March, around 69 people have reported falling victim to this scam, with losses amounting to over S$47,000.
According to the police, scammers approach people on Carousell and express interest in buying a product they are selling. Then, the scammer requests to pay via CarouPay, an app payment gateway that is connected to the seller’s PayNow account.
“Thereafter, the victims would receive an email purportedly sent from Carousell, indicating that payment was made. They would be required to access their bank accounts via a phishing link or PayNow QR code provided within the email in order to receive the payment,” reported the police.
Screenshot of phishing email directing victims to a phishing website to receive payment. Source:Singapore Police Force
When sellers scan the QR code or click the link, they would be redirected to a fraudulent site that poses as a bank website.
Here, they would be tricked into giving out their bank details, as well as one-time password or OTP to process the payment. Finally, an unauthorised transaction would be made to their bank account. This is only when they realise that they were scammed.
Screenshots of phishing websites to receive payment.
Source: Singapore Police Force
Citizens are reminded that CarouPay, now known as Carousell Protection, never requires users to confirm their payment via email, nor requests any online banking login information.
The police also advised people who sell on Carousell to verify the buyer’s profile before closing the deal. This includes checking the account’s creation date, reviews, ratings, and verification status.
“Do not click on links provided in unsolicited emails and text messages,” the police said, adding that when in doubt, people must verify the authenticity of information with the e-commerce platform, or with their banks.
If you are a victim of Carousell phishing scams, report it to your bank immediately. For more information on scams, call the Anti-Scam Hotline at 1800-722-6688, or visit the Scam Alert Website.
To report any scams, submit information online or call the police hotline at 1800-255-0000.
