SINGAPORE – Victims have lost almost $400,000 so far in 2026 to a scam online that claims to offer help with Singapore permanent residence (PR) applications.
In an advisory on April 22, the police urged the public to be vigilant. At least 24 such cases have been reported since Jan 1, with total losses amounting to about $397,000.
The police said victims would often come across advertisements or posts on social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, offering services to obtain permanent residency in Singapore.
The scammers will mislead victims into paying application fees and additional charges under the pretext of improving their chances of success through investments in companies, purchases of academic certifications, and donations.
Police added that victims could be issued fake documents to enhance the deception.
These include forged shareholder certificates from the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority, school certificates and donation receipts.
The victims are then instructed to make bank transfers or meet unknown individuals to hand over cash.
