Man arrested for allegedly scamming job seekers into paying him $1,000 for services

SINGAPORE - A 42-year-old man, who is believed to be involved in a series of job scams, has been arrested. 

Between August and November this year, the police had received several reports lodged by victims who responded to online advertisements, offering job placement services.

The victims were mainly foreigners, and had paid the suspect between $500 and $1,000 as deposit for his services.

After receiving the deposit, the suspect become uncontactable and he did not end up providing any jobs for the victims, said the police in a statement today (Nov 12). 

Through investigations, the police established the identity of the suspect and arrested him at Bedok North Street 2 on Nov 10. 

Investigations against the suspect are ongoing.

For cheating, the suspect could be jailed up to 10 years and fined. 

Tips to protect yourself against job scammers, according to the police:

- Seek employment service(s) from a licensed employment agent

- Be suspicious of employers that require upfront payment before you start work

- Be wary of job offers that promise high returns for little effort

- Ignore job advertisements of a dubious nature

- Do not share personal information including One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your mobile phone or transfer money to any stranger whom you have not met before.

- Contact the police if you are a victim

maryanns@sph.com.sg