Scam Alert: Billionaire Peter Lim’s Identity Hijacked
Singapore’s billionaire Peter Lim is facing another round of swindles. His team lodged two police reports after finding scammers posing as the 69‑year‑old business mogul, promising quick cash in group chats on WhatsApp and Telegram.
What the Scammers Said
The fake messages were carried out in both English and Mandarin, with the impersonators assuring readers that “I’ll help you earn 1 million SGD in just half a year.” They even offered “stock trading classes” for a guaranteed profit, using Lim’s name and a picture that looks suspiciously like him.
A History of Posing as Lim
These aren’t the first time Lim’s image and name were abused. Back in 2016 and 2017, similar fraudulent schemes were reported to the police. The current incident, filed on June 20 and again on August 2, shows that scammers keep finding ways to prey on his fame.
Why It Matters
Lim’s net worth sits at a cool US$2.4 billion (S$3.3 billion) as per Forbes, yet he keeps a low digital profile—no social media accounts. That’s partly why scammers think it’s easier to fool the public by attaching his identity to their con.
Scam Statistics in Singapore
- Last year, scam victims lost a staggering $633.3 million.
- Over 90 % of these scams originated from overseas.
- Investment frauds were the deadliest, with 46,196 cases totalling $190.9 million stolen.
- The biggest single-hit loss stood at $6.4 million.
- From the start of this year, 587 people reported phishing thefts amounting to $2.7 million.
How to Protect Yourself
If you suspect a scam—especially one that uses a famous name—dial the police hotline at 1800‑255‑0000 or file a report online. For more defence tips, visit the official Scam Alert site (just want to keep it short: call the anti‑scam hotline 1800‑722‑6688).
Takeaway
So, no doubt the internet’s got a few new tricks up its sleeve. Keep your guard up, verify sources, and if you’re promised a quick million, you might as well be breathing in the same story as a fisherman in a fishing lake—dreamy but not real.
— Article originally from The Straits Times. Permission needed for reproduction.
