Apple & Google Scam Hits Singapore Retailers – $15,700 Lost in a Week
What Went Wrong?
The police received at least eight reports of phishing calls between Dec 13 and 20, where scammers pretended to be Apple or Google staff. They framed the story like this: “We’ve had a lot of angry customers who can’t get the balance out of their gift cards, and we need your card numbers to verify authenticity.”
Retailers fell for it. They forwarded batch activation codes, only to find their sensitive numbers were sold to a hiding place that appeared to be a “main office.” Fortunately, no follow‑up calls came, but the damage had already been done.
Where the Money Went
At least $15,700 disappeared in a single week. A major victim was the 7‑Eleven convenience store chain, letting the scammers siphon off the cash from unsuspecting customers who were buying Apple iTunes and Google Play gift cards.
How to Dodge the Next Scam
- Stay skeptical. If someone claims to be from your supplier, verify via the phone you know is theirs, NOT the new number they give.
- Educate your team. Keep the warning simple: “If it sounds fishy, call back on a known number.”
- Report promptly. Dial the anti‑scam helpline at 1800‑722‑6688 or visit scamalert.sg for advice.
Need Extra Help?
Think you’ve been tricked? Contact the police hotline at 1800‑255‑0000 or submit the details online at police.gov.sg/iwitness.
Urgent police assistance? Hit the big red button: 999.
Side Note
Keep your finger on the pulse—scammers evolve fast. Never trust a voice that says “We’re from your vendor” unless you can confirm it yourself.
