SPF was part of Interpol bust targeted at organised crime behind 'sextortion' cases

SINGAPORE - In a statement released today, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) confirmed its participation in the Interpol-coordinated operation codenamed Operation Strikeback, which targeted organised crime networks behind 'sextortion' cases around the world.

During the operation, a series of raids was carried out by the Philippines National Police (PNP) in Bicol, Bulacan, Laguna and Taguig City (Philippines) on April 30 and May 1, resulting in the arrest of 58 individuals.

In addition, SPF advises the public to take the following preventive measures when interacting with others online:

- Be wary of messages from unknown people who want to befriend you.

- Do not accede to any request that may put you in vulnerable positions, such as performing compromising acts in front of the webcam, or giving personal details about yourself when interacting with other internet users.

- If anyone attempts to extort money from you or should you become a victim of such an attempt, call the police immediately.

- Do not remit or transfer money.

minlee@sph.com.sg