At least S$71,000 lost to job scams associated with Pokémon & other trading cards since Aug. 25, 2026

At least S$71,000 has been lost to job scams involving online tasks associated with Pokémon and other trading cards since Aug. 25, 2026.

Modus operandi

In this scam variant, scammers contact victims through unsolicited messages or calls and offer remote online jobs involving Pokémon or trading card-related tasks, the Singapore Police Force said on Sep. 14.

Victims are then directed to fraudulent websites where they are instructed to complete tasks, such as opening digital trading card packs or selecting trading cards in exchange for commissions.

To complete tasks or unlock higher-value opportunities, victims would need to make cryptocurrency transfers or deposits.

While some victims may initially receive small payouts, they are subsequently asked to make additional payments to complete tasks, clear negative balances, restore their accounts, or withdraw their purported earnings.

Victims only realise they have been scammed when they are unable to withdraw their money from the fraudulent websites.

Use ScamShield app

The police advised members of the public to use the ScamShield app to block scam calls and filter suspicious SMSes, and to check scam signs with official sources such as the ScamShield Helpline (1799).

Members of the public can also check the legitimacy of suspicious messages, phone numbers, and website links via the ScamShield app or the ScamShield website at www.scamshield.gov.sg.

The police also advised members of the public not to accept dubious job offers that promise lucrative returns for minimal effort or require upfront payments.

Members of the public should tell authorities, family, and friends about scams and report any fraudulent transactions to your bank immediately.

If in doubt, call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 to check.

For more information on scams, members of the public can visit www.scamshield.gov.sg.