More cases of lucky draw phone scams this year

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http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC121224-0000016/More-cases-of-lucky-draw-phone-scams-this-year

More people here fell prey to lucky draw phone scams in the first eight months of this year. There were 234 reported cases, of which 134 victims were cheated of their money, a police statement said yesterday; as compared to 201 such cases during the same period last year.

The amount of money involved has gone up by 21 per cent to S$4.6 million, compared to S$3.8 million.

The police said victims included professionals, youths and senior citizens. "As the scam is generally perpetrated in Mandarin, foreigners who speak this language would be victimised as well," said the police.

Conmen typically call their victims and inform them that they have won a prize in a lucky draw overseas. To redeem the prize, which could be a luxury car or air tickets, the victim will be instructed to pay a processing fee or tax up front.

After receiving the first payment via bank transfers, the conmen then ask for further payments. The victim usually realises he or she has been conned when the culprit becomes uncontactable.

The police have advised the public to call 999 immediately if they receive a lucky draw phone scam call. The public should not make any advance payment to claim any prize, they added.