The Ministry of Finance (MOF) is aware of scammers impersonating the Solidarity Payment SMS text messages in order to extract bank account details from unsuspecting members of the public.
The Solidarity Payment had been dispersed from April 14, and MOF had used texts to inform a recipient when the payment has been successfully credited into their account.
To curb scammers from taking advantage of the government payouts to solicit bank information, MOF has released samples of their SMSes so that the public knows if they are receiving a legitimate SMS.
An example of a legitimate SMS. Photo from MOF/Facebook
Examples of legitimate SMS. Photo from MOF/Facebook
You can view their Facebook post here:
1. MOF would never ask for personal bank account details over the phone or via email.
2. Authorised online transactions with government agencies will require users to log in with a SingPass ID and password.
Previously, it has been reported that some had received phishing calls from scammers impersonating government officials, or have received scam emails.
If you have received an unfamiliar email, text message, or phone call purportedly from MOF, you should not respond in any way, such as continuing the call or clicking on suspicious email links.
If you suspect you have been subject to a phishing scam:
- Please lodge a police report immediately;
- Secure your online accounts; and
- Contact your bank, if necessary.
You can also call the anti-scam helpline at 1800-722-6688 or go to www.scamalert.sg for scam-related advice.
Top photo from MOF/Facebook