Crime Prevention Advisory For Lottery And Kidnap Phone Scams

Tricksters often come up with new and innovative phone scams to trick victims into parting with their money. Some of these ruses include Kidnap and Lottery scams. Members of public are advised to be alert and share the following preventive measures with your loved-ones.

LOTTERY PHONE SCAM

The culprit will inform you that you have won a prize in a foreign lottery/lucky draw. The culprit will request for an advance payment to help you process the claiming of the prize.

• Do not make any advance payment to claim any prize money. Winning a lucky draw or lottery does not require you to make any advance payment;
• Ignore such notifications especially when you did not purchase any ticket or participate in any such draws; and
• Call police immediately at ‘999’ to report the case

KIDNAP PHONE SCAM

The criminal will tell you that your family member had been kidnapped and demand that a ransom be paid.  In certain cases, you can hear cries for help in the background.

• Call police immediately at ‘999’ to report the case
• Remain calm and contact your loved one immediately to confirm his or her safety.
• Do not transfer any money via remittance agencies, banks or any other means to the caller.

Last updated: 14 August 2012