4 investigated for $12k scam: Victim helped to pay off 'repair costs' in exchange for companionship

Four people, aged between 15 and 21, are being investigated by the police for their suspected involvement in a cheating case involving around $12,200.

The police said they received a report on November 15, at around midnight, from a victim who had befriended two unknown persons on a dating website.

"The duo then allegedly instructed the victim to transfer cash to them on various occasions to pay off repair costs purportedly incurred from a road traffic accident and they would offer companionship in exchange," police added.

Through follow-up investigations, officers from Bedok Police Division established the identity of the four persons on November 16.

Police investigations are ongoing.

The offence of cheating carries a jail term of up to 10 years and a fine.

The police said they take a serious view of persons who may be involved in scams and frauds, adding: "Perpetrators will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

"Internet love scams remain a serious crime concern.

"To avoid falling prey to these scams, members of the public should be careful when befriending strangers online. They should also be wary when being asked to receive and/or transfer money to people whom they do not know."

For more information on scams, members of the public can visit www.scamalert.sg or call the anti-scam hotline at 1800-722-6688.

Anyone with information on such scams may call the police hotline at 1800-255-0000 or submit information online at www.police.gov.sg/iwitness.