In Singapore has been a significant increase in rental scams involving fake property agents, resulting in substantial financial losses for renters. According to police reports, at least 287 people fell victim to these scams between July and November 2023, with total losses amounting to over S$1.8 million (US$1.34 million).
The scams typically involved fake listings on platforms like Facebook, which accounted for the largest number of cases, as well as on Carousell and other rental advertisement websites. The scammers, posing as property agents registered with Singapore’s Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), used various tactics such as sending pictures of their CEA registration number and business cards, along with pictures or videos of the properties. However, the contact numbers provided by the scammers did not match the actual numbers registered with the CEA.
Victims were often pressured into making deposits to secure property viewings or rentals, after which the scammers would cease all contact. In some cases, victims were asked to meet with the fake agents’ “personal assistants” to facilitate the viewing, provide personal details for a tenancy agreement, and make payments.
The police have advised the public to be cautious, especially when dealing with property listings on platforms like Facebook and Carousell. They recommend verifying the phone numbers in the listings with the CEA public register and contacting property agencies directly to confirm the authenticity of listings. They also emphasized that property agents are not allowed to demand payment for viewings, and rental deposits should be made to agencies’ bank accounts, not to individuals or “personal assistants.”
Also learn about WhatsApp Impersonation Scams in Singapore.
