SINGAPORE: Singapore Customs has issued a warning about two new parcel scam variants involving fraudsters impersonating Customs officers to trick victims into making payments or disclosing banking details.
In the first variant, scammers send emails from Gmail accounts claiming a parcel is being withheld for compliance issues. Victims receive a forged inspection notice falsely attributed to senior Customs management.
They are then offered an “alternative” to attending the inspection by paying a verification fee to a Malaysian bank account, with the promise of a refund.
Victims are also asked to submit a fake “Singapore Customs Inspection Agreement” containing their bank information. As the deadline approaches, scammers escalate threats, warning of arrest by Malaysian police for alleged contraband if the payment is not made.
Singapore Customs noted that several victims reported calls and messages coming from Malaysia-registered phone numbers.
In the second variant, scammers send WhatsApp messages claiming gold bars registered in the victim’s name are being held by Customs. Fraudsters provide photos of the supposed gold bars and forged documents bearing outdated Customs logos.
Victims are then pressured to make payment for the “release” of the items or face legal action, seizure, or “blacklisting” from future shipments.
Authorities urge the public to verify all suspicious communications through official channels and to avoid making payments or sharing personal details. Source: Channel News Asia
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Why These Scams Work
- Authority impersonation: Scammers exploit public trust in government agencies.
- Fear tactics: Threats of arrest, contraband accusations or shipment seizures pressure victims into fast compliance.
- Realistic documentation: Fake inspection notices and gold-bar photos add credibility.
- Cross-border complexity: Use of Malaysia-based phone numbers and bank accounts makes victims unsure where to verify.
How to Stay Safe
- Singapore Customs never uses Gmail, WhatsApp, or personal bank accounts for payments.
- Verify any parcel or customs-related message directly through official websites or hotlines.
- Never provide banking details or pay “verification” or “release” fees.
- Report suspicious messages to the Singapore Police Anti-Scam Centre and ScamShield.
Read more: How to Report a Scam in Southeast Asia (Websites, Calls, Emails & More) 2025 Guide
