Scammers target CASE consumers who lodge complaints
They use phishing e-mails to direct consumers to third-party websites in order to receive updates on complaints
SINGAPORE — Scammers are trying to steal personal information from consumers with complaints to the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE).
The association said in a media release on Tuesday (24 January) that these scammers are using phishing e-mails to divert consumers to third-party websites, under the guise of receiving updates on their complaints.
Case's executive director Lee Siow Hwee said that the watchdog had started getting reports of these e-mails last Saturday, and have since received 13 complaints from consumers.
These include five individuals who said they received similar phishing e-mails in October 2022 and had lodged complaints to the watchdog.
Scammers used fake email addresses and ticket numbers
CASE added in the media release that the scammers provided fake ticket numbers to recipients' claims or disputes, and asked them to click on a chat icon to access third-party websites, in order to receive updates or monetary compensation. The association's logo had also been included in these e-mails.
Among the e-mail addresses used were odoo@compueconomicos.com, wilson@v3.sg and bhm200025@sdh.sg.
Ms Lee stated that since these e-mail addresses do not belong to CASE and the e-mails did not originate from the association, CASE is unable to determine the total number of consumers affected.
In addition to posting notices on its website and Facebook page, the consumer watchdog had also alerted consumers in its database on Sunday.
IT system and database remain secure
According to Ms Lee, CASE has conducted security checks on their IT system and database and confirmed they are secure.
"Further investigations are ongoing, and we have reported the matter to the police," she said in the media release.
Those who receive a similar e-mail notification should not click on the links or chat icons and should not disclose personal information or bank details.
CASE said it will not direct consumers through e-mail or live chat to visit another website to receive updates on their cases or to receive monetary compensation.
Anyone receiving such e-mails should contact Case's hotline at 9795-8397 or send an e-mail to dataprotection@case.org.sg.
Do you have a story tip? Email: sgnews.tips@yahooinc.com.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. Also check out our Southeast Asia, Food, and Gaming channels on YouTube.
